Seafood

From ArticleWorld

The term seafood is used to describe any of the edible sea creatures commonly consumed as food. These include various species of fish, mollusks, crustaceans and other creatures such as octopus, squid and eels. Edible species which dwell in freshwater are often referred to as seafood as well. Plants such as kelp and other types of seaweed are not generally described as seafood.

Harvest

Seafood is harvested in the wild by fishing, either with hook and line or using nets. It is also obtained through so called “fish farming,” known as aquaculture or mariculture. Both fish and shellfish are raised using this technique.

History of seafood

Seafood has been an important source of food for people throughout human history. Fish and similar animals were usually more abundant and often more easily obtained than land animals. A variety of techniques have been used in harvesting them, ranging from wicker traps planted in rivers and streams to spearing.

Fish and other seafood have played an important role in many of the world’s great cultures. The ancient Egyptians used the fish symbol in counting large numbers. The success of early Greek and Roman civilizations thrived, in no small, part due to the rich abundance of seafood provided by the Mediterranean. During the Jomon period in ancient Japan, the amount of shellfish consumed was used as a way of measuring population.

Seafood preparation

As an important source of protein around the world, seafood is prepared in a great variety of ways. Fish is fried, boiled, broiled, steamed and even eaten raw. Among some of the better known seafood dishes are bouillabaisse, clam chowder, sushi, sashimi and calamari.