Mahi-mahi vs Red Sea Bream
Coryphaena hippurus compared with Pagrus major
Taxonomy & Classification
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Coryphaena hippurus | Pagrus major |
| Order | Carangiformes | Perciformes |
| Family | Coryphaenidae | Sparidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Physical Traits
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 210.0 cm | 100.0 cm |
| Max Weight | 40.0 kg | 9.7 kg |
| Color | Dazzling iridescent blue-green and gold flanks; males have a blunt squared-off head; flanks flicker golden-yellow to electric blue when alive, fading to dull gray-green at death. | Pale rose-pink to silver-pink overall body with small iridescent blue spots on scales above the lateral line; bright pink-red dorsal fin; characteristic dark smudge at the dorsal fin origin in juveniles. |
Habitat & Environment
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Water Type | Saltwater | Saltwater |
| Depth Range | 0-85m | 10-200m |
| Geographic Range | Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceanic waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Highly pelagic; gathers around floating sargassum mats, current lines, and thermocline … | Northwestern Pacific from the Yellow Sea and East China Sea to southern Japan and the Philippines. Inhabits coastal rocky reefs, sandy bays, and brackish-edge habitats … |
| Habitat | Neritic, pelagic, coral reefs | Shallow coastal waters and bays of the western Pacific, from Japan to Southeast Asia. Inhabits rocky and sandy substrates at 10-200m depth. Coastal and semi-pelagic; … |
Fishing Information
| Attribute | Mahi-mahi | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Game Fish | Yes | Yes |
| Fight Rating | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| World Record | — | — |
| Mercury Level | — | — |
Cuisine & Edibility
Mahi-mahi
Firm, slightly sweet flesh with large, moist flakes and low fat. Excellent grilled, blackened Cajun-style, or in tacos; one of the most popular sport fish for the table.
Red Sea Bream
Prized in Japanese cuisine as 'tai'; delicate, sweet white flesh with a clean oceanic taste and low fat. Excellent grilled whole, steamed, or served as sashimi on celebratory occasions.
Species Overview
Mahi-mahi
The mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, is among the most colorful pelagic fish in the ocean. Its iridescent blue, green, and gold body fades rapidly after death. It is a fast-growing species, rarely living beyond five years.
Red Sea Bream
The red sea bream, known as 'tai' in Japan, is considered the king of fish in Japanese cuisine. It holds deep cultural significance and is traditionally served at celebrations. Its delicate white flesh is prized for sashimi and sushi.