What is Sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)?

Sea bass Sea bass

Common names for Sea bass

European sea bass, Mediterranean sea bass, branzino, bar, loup de mer

Other languages for Sea bass

  • French name: Bar, loup de mer
  • Italian name: Spigola
  • German name: Wolfbarsch

Introduction to Sea bass

Sea bass, which is often sold in the United States under the Italian name branzino, is a highly valued fish in Europe, where it is mostly caught recreationally. In the Mediterranean, small commercial fisheries occur. Beach and purse seines, trawl nets, trammel nets, longlines, and rod and line are all employed to capture these bass. Fresh commercial catches are mostly sold to local markets. This sea bass, which grows to a maximum size of about 32 inches, is found in the Atlantic, along the European coastlines, the Mediterranean, and as far south as Senegal. Due to limited wild harvests and a high price, imports into the United States were uneconomical until cultivated supply from Norway and Greece started to emerge on the American market. Today, demand is nearly entirely satisfied by aquacultured products. Because the bass thrives in saltwater, brackish water, and even fresh water, it is an excellent choice for aquaculture. Though it is currently categorized as Dicentrarchus labrax, branzino was formerly known as Morone labrax.

Product profile for Sea bass

When fresh, European sea bass flesh is reddish, but it cooks to an opaque white color. The lean, delicately textured, flaky flesh has a sweet, mild taste. Many chefs believe that wild-caught bass has greater taste than farmed bass.

Cooking tips for Sea bass

Because branzino has a low fat level, it’s best steamed, roasted, or sautéed, as these methods bring out the delicate taste. Grilling branzino is popular in the Mediterranean, although it’s difficult since the flesh can dry out quickly.

Nutrition facts for Sea bass

Calories: 97 Fat Calories: 18 Total Fat: 2.0 g Saturated Fat: 0.51 g Cholesterol: 41 mg Sodium: 68 mg Protein: 19.3 g Omega 3: 0.7 g

Primary product forms for Sea bass

Global supply for Sea bass

Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Norway, Spain, U.K., Iran