The scientific name of wahoo fish is Acanthocybium solandri. Wahoo is a Hawaiian word meaning “good to eat.” This fish is built like a torpedo, and fast swimmers are familiar with it. These fish can usually exceed 100 pounds in weight. However, the average size of wahoo fish caught in Hawaii is 8 to 30 pounds. When European explorers first mapped the Hawaiian Islands, they found wahoo fish abundant around Oahu. Surface catches indicate that these fish are associated with banks, tops, and debris. However, Longline catches suggest this fish is also widely distributed in the open sea.
Among sport fishermen, wahoo fish is a popular light-tackle gamefish. Trawlers and longlines commonly catch this Hawaiian fish. This fish is generally fast-moving, strong, and aggressive food. It is famous worldwide as a Scombridae (Order Perciforms) family fish.
This wahoo fish is primarily found in tropical regions. The wahoo fish is gray-blue above and paler below, marked with a series of vertical bars, and like related tunas, has a row of small filets behind the dorsal and anal fins. It is a slender, streamlined fish with sharp-toothed, beak-like jaws and a tapered body ending in a narrow tail base and a crescent tail. The largest, the wahoo, can grow up to 1.8 meters (6 ft) in length. Until now, wahoo fish have been found to reach 55 kg (120 lb) or more.
Is Wahoo a Tuna
The wahoo fish is not classified as a tuna but is closely related. Generally, both wahoo and tuna fish belong to the Scombridae family. But wahoo is more closely related to king mackerel than tuna. Wahoo and tuna are distinct enough to be classified separately within the family Scombridae. Wahoo’s body shape is elongated and torpedo-shaped. Tuna, on the other hand, has a streamlined body shape, varying by species. The Wahoo color is iridescent blue with silver sides. Usually darker above, lighter below. Its teeth are sharp and short. Tuna teeth are bigger and stronger than wahoo teeth.
There are many differences between wahoo and tuna, including classification, physical characteristics, habitat, behavior, and culinary qualities.
Classification
Wahoo is scientifically known as Acanthocybium solandri. It is a member of the family Scombridae but is more closely related to mackerel than true tunas. Conversely, Tuna belongs to the genus Tunas and is also part of the family Scombridae. This fish also includes different species, such as bluefin, yellowfin, and albacore.
Residence
Wahoo are usually found in tropical and subtropical waters. These fish prefer open ocean environments and often live in small groups. Tuna also live in tropical and subtropical ocean waters. However, tuna are smaller than wahoo. Tuna are usually in large groups. Tuna are highly migratory and can cover huge distances.
Behavior
The wahoo is best known for its speed (up to 60 mph) and solitary nature. Tuna, on the other hand, is a highly social fish that often swims in large schools. This helps in their hunting strategy and protection from predators.
Culinary Qualities
Wahoo is generally valued for its mild flavor and firm texture. It is often considered a delicacy. When cooked, wahoo meat is white and flaky.
On the other hand, tuna is known for its rich flavor and versatility in cooking. It can be eaten raw or cooked, such as sushi or sashimi. Tuna’s flesh color usually varies from light pink to deep red, depending on the species.
Wahoo fish Taste
Wahoo fish is highly regarded for its unique flavor and texture. This fish has a mild but sweet flavor, often described as similar to veal or chicken. Even for those who generally dislike fish, this fish is attractive in taste. Wahoo fish generally do not possess a strong fishy odor. This enhances its broad appeal, as the flesh of wahoo fish is firm and fleshy. Characterized by large, round flakes when cooked. This fish remains white even after cooking, which attracts attention. Wahoo fish are eaten in a variety of ways.
For example:
Each cooking method enhances the natural flavor of this fish without affecting its flavor. Wahoo fish has many nutrients. This fish contains omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins such as B6 and B12. However, these fish may include moderate to high levels of mercury. Therefore, consumption of this fish should be moderated for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children.
In short, wahoo fish is popular worldwide for its delicious taste, firm texture, and culinary versatility. It is especially loved by seafood lovers and chefs.
