Butterfish Odax pullus,  New Zealand - Greenbone, Japan - Bera-rui

Average size 14-18 inches, weighing 2.2-4.0 pounds but can grow to 25 inches and about 5.5 pounds. Color variable, usually blackish green, lighter below; younger fish, 6-8 inches, bronze colored. Alternative name Greenbone comes from green tinge in bones. Found in shallow coastal waters in rocky areas, New Zealand and Chatham

Islands; most common in coastal areas around Cook Strait, least common in northern New Zealand. Not related to the warehou species and other members of the family Centrolophidae which are called butterfish in Japan and other countries. Caught commercially by set nets. Landed all year round. A very small resource.

Delicate, juicy flesh with high iodine content. Suited to most cooking methods.

FAMILY: Odacidae (kelpfishes)

[FoodCollege] [ProduceCollege] [PorkCollege] [PoultryCollege] [WildGameCollege] [FoodUniversity] [DairyCollege] [PantryIngredientsl] [TotalFoodNet]