What fish are considered whitefish?

"Whitefish" can be a bit confusing because it's used in a few different ways:

1. True Whitefish (Coregonus spp.)

* This is the most specific definition, referring to a group of fish in the salmon family.

* They are found in cold, freshwater lakes and rivers, mainly in the northern hemisphere.

* Common examples: Lake whitefish, cisco, tullibee, and whitefish (a more general term for any Coregonus species).

2. White Flesh Fish

* This broader category includes fish that have white or light-colored flesh.

* The term is often used in cooking and isn't limited to a specific species.

* Common examples: Cod, haddock, halibut, pollock, tilapia, snapper, and even some types of tuna.

3. "Whitefish" as a Market Name

* In some regions, "whitefish" is used as a generic term for any fish sold as fillets without a specific species name.

* This can be misleading, as the fish might be any of the white flesh fish listed above.

So, when someone says "whitefish," it's important to clarify what they mean:

* True whitefish: Are you referring to a specific Coregonus species?

* White flesh fish: Are you referring to a fish with white meat?

* Market name: Are you referring to any fish sold as "whitefish" without further identification?

By understanding the different meanings of "whitefish," you can avoid confusion and get the specific fish you're looking for.