The Branzino fish is primarily an ocean-going fish which is native to the waters of Europe’s western and southern and Africa’s northern coasts. And the fish can also be found in shallow coastal waters and river mouths during the summer months and late autumn. It is one of only six species in its family, Moronidae (collectively called the temperate basses).
Natural habitats of the Branzino fish include estuaries, lagoons, coastal waters, and rivers. The fish is found in a large part of the eastern Atlantic Ocean (from southern Norway to Senegal). It can also be found in the entire Mediterranean Sea, and in the southern Black Sea (but is absent from the Baltic Sea). However, read more information about this fish species below.
What is Branzino fish?
The Branzino is primarily an ocean-going fish which is native to the waters off Europe’s western and southern and Africa’s northern coasts. It is fished and raised commercially, and is considered the most important fish currently cultured in the Mediterranean. It is known by some other names such as European seabass, European bass, sea bass, common bass, white bass, capemouth, white salmon, sea perch, white mullet, sea dace, loup de mer etc.
In Ireland and the United Kingdom the fish is popular in restaurant and sold and consumed as sea bass. In North America, the fish is widely known by one of its Italian names, Branzino. Scientific name for this fish is Dicentrarchus labrax.
Branzino fish in Spanish
The Branzino fish is called by many different names in different parts around the world. In Spanish, this fish is called lubina or lubina europea.
Characteristics
Like all other fish species, the Branzino fish has several distinctive physical characteristics. It has a streamlined, and elongated body like other predator fish. The head is slightly flattened, with a large mouth that is capable of catching and holding prey. Their eyes are relatively large.
Branzino has two dorsal fins, and the tail is forked. The first dorsal fin is spiny and the second one is softer. The pectoral fins are long and pointed, and their pelvic fins are located farther back, near the abdomen.
The skin of these fish is covered in small, smooth scales. In terms of coloration, the dorsal side or back of the fish is typically dark gray to olive green, while the sides are lighter silvery color. There may also be a slight bluish tint along the back. Their belly is generally white or light silvery. The pectoral fins are dark and the dorsal fin and the tail are usually lighter in color (often with a slight dark edge).
Size and weight
Average size of the Mature Branzino fish is typically around 40 to 60 cm. Although some fish can grow around or up to 1 meter in length. Average body weight is around 2.5 kg, and the maximum recorded body weight is over 12 kg.
Diet
The Branzino fish is a carnivorous predator and its diet primarily consists of a variety of marine organisms. Their diet mainly consists of small fish, juvenile fish, crustaceans, mollusks, worms etc. Although, their exact diet can vary slightly depending on their habitat and the time of the year.
Reproduction
The Branzino fish has a well-defined reproduction cycle. These fish typically spawn during the winter and early spring (usually from December to March), depending on environmental conditions. Spawning typically occurs in deeper, offshore waters when water temperatures ranges from 8°C to 12°C.
These fish typically reproduce through external fertilization. During spawning, the females release their eggs into the water, and the males release sperm (milt) over the eggs to fertilize the eggs. After successful fertilization, the eggs float in the water column and develop into larvae, and the larvae soon become juveniles. And then they become adult and reach reproduction ability within their 2 to 4 years of age.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Branzino fish is typically around 10 years or sometimes even more.
Uses
The Branzino fish is mainly used as food, and the fish is known for its delicate flavor and firm texture. It is most commonly grilled, baked, or pan-seared and also enjoyed raw in sushi or ceviche.
Cooking and recipes
The Branzino fish can be cooked in many different ways by following many popular recipes. Some most common and popular cooking ways are grilling, baking, pan-searing etc.
Taste
The Branzino fish is very tasty. It has a mild, delicate flavor that is often described as sweet and slightly briny. The flesh is firm, yet tender, with a smooth, clean taste.
Nutrition and health benefits
The Branzino fish is highly nutritious. Here is the nutrients per 100 grams serving:
- Calories: 97 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Total Fat: 2.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.1 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.6 g
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.8–1.0 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sodium: 52 mg
- Potassium: 380 mg
- Calcium: 20 mg
- Iron: 0.4 mg
- Vitamin A: 50 IU
- Vitamin D: 1.2 µg
- Vitamin B12: 2.3 µg
- Selenium: 30 µg
As you can see, this fish is highly nutritious and can provide several health benefits. It is an excellent source of lean, high-quality protein. This good quality protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body health. It is low in fat and rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which are beneficial for heart health.
Price
Exact price of the Branzino fish can vary from place to place and depends on numerous factors. On an average you can find the price between $12 to $20 per pound whole fish, and between $18 to $30 for fresh fillets. Frozen fish are less costly, with an average price around $10.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
People often ask several questions regarding this fish species. Here we are trying to list the most common and frequently asked question about Branzino fish and trying to answer them.
What is Branzino fish?
The Branzino is the Italian name for European sea bass. It is highly prized fish in Mediterranean cuisine. It is well known for its mild, sweet flavor and firm, white flesh. It can be cooked in many different ways. And it is a good source of good quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Where can I buy Branzino fish?
You can buy this fish from many different sources. You can buy from your local whole foods market, supermarkets, grocery stores, specialty fish markets, restaurants, and even online seafood retailers.
Where is Branzino fish caught?
The Branzino fish is primarily caught in the Mediterranean sea, and along the Atlantic coasts of Europe (particularly off France, Italy, Greece, and Spain).
How to prepare Branzino fish?
Preparing Branzino fish is relatively very easy and simple. First of all, clean and scale the fish. Then season the fish with salt, pepper, herbs, and olive oil. Then cook it depending upon your preferred cooking method.
How to cook Branzino fish?
You can cook this fish in many different ways. Some most common and popular cooking ways are grilling, baking, pan-searing etc.
What does Branzino fish taste like?
Branzino has a mild, delicate flavor, and very tasty. Its taste is often described as slightly sweet and briny.
Is Branzino fish healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy fish to it, and it provides several health benefits.
Can you eat Branzino fish while pregnant?
Yes, Branzino is generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy. Although, you should take it in moderation and cook properly.
