What are hake fish?

Hake are a type of fish that belong to the Merlucciidae family. They are demersal, meaning they live near the bottom of the ocean.

Here's a breakdown of their characteristics:

Appearance:

* Elongated body: Hake have a long, slender body with a slightly compressed shape.

* Large head: Their heads are large with a pointed snout.

* Two dorsal fins: They have two separate dorsal fins, one short and stiff and the other longer and softer.

* One anal fin: Hake possess a single anal fin located behind the second dorsal fin.

* Silver-grey color: Hake are typically silver-grey in color with a darker back and a lighter belly.

Habitat and Diet:

* Cold, deep waters: Hake are found in cold, deep waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.

* Bottom feeders: They are bottom feeders and primarily eat fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.

Fishing and Consumption:

* Important food source: Hake is an important commercial fish species and is a significant source of protein for many populations.

* White, flaky meat: Hake meat is white, flaky, and mild in flavor, making it versatile in cooking.

* Sustainable fishing: It's essential to choose sustainably caught hake to help preserve this valuable resource.

Types of Hake:

* European hake: One of the most commercially important species, found in the Northeast Atlantic.

* Pacific hake: Also known as "whiting", is common in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of North America.

* Silver hake: Found in the western Atlantic Ocean, and is sometimes marketed as "whiting".

Overall, hake are a valuable and tasty fish species that contribute to both the economy and the diets of many people. It's important to choose sustainably caught hake to ensure their continued health and abundance.