In addition to the kinds of fish which have already been thought-about, the overall time period fish additionally consists of SHELL FISH. Fish of this type are totally different in construction from bony fish, for they’re acquatic animals which are completely or partly encased in shells. They embody mollusks, or bivalves, resembling oysters, clams, and scallops, and crustaceans, resembling lobsters, crabs, and shrimp.

The recognition of the edible kinds of mollusks and crustaceans talked about relies upon largely on whether or not they are often simply obtained and whether or not they’re pleasing to the native or particular person style. As they’re present in salt rivers, bays, and different shallow salt-water sources, their biggest use is amongst folks dwelling close to the seashore, however they’re much favored the place they are often procured in edible situation. They aren’t so low-cost as many different fish meals; that’s, a sure amount of cash won’t buy so nice a amount of shell fish, lobster as an example, as a few of the well-known kinds of fish correct, resembling halibut or whitefish. Lobsters and crabs are often costlier than oysters and clams; consequently, they’re used extra usually to offer a delicacy or to produce one thing kind of unusual for a particular meal.

A number of precautions ought to be noticed in buying shell fish. As an illustration, crabs and lobsters ought to be bought alive. They’re often shipped on ice in order that they are going to stay on this situation for a while, and they’re displayed on ice within the markets for a similar purpose. Such shell fish ought to be stored alive till they’re plunged into boiling water to prepare dinner. Oysters and clams purchased within the shell should even be alive when bought. A tightly closed shell signifies that they’re alive, whereas a barely open shell proves that they’re lifeless. If these two varieties are purchased out of the shells, the fish themselves shouldn’t be accompanied by an important amount of liquid. Appreciable liquid is a sign that the oysters or clams have been adulterated by the addition of water. Previously it was the customized to maintain oysters in contemporary water, because the water they take in bloats or fattens them. This apply, nevertheless, has fallen into disfavor.

Shell fish lend themselves admirably to a big number of dishes, together with soups, entrees, salads, and substitutes for meat dishes. They possess an excessive amount of distinctive taste, their meals worth is relatively excessive, and, supplied they’re in good situation and are correctly ready, they’re healthful and simply digested. It will possibly subsequently be seen that shell fish have a lot to advocate their use. There’s appreciable hazard, nevertheless, in utilizing any varieties that aren’t completely contemporary or freshly cooked. Within the case of mollusks, or bivalves, a lot hurt has resulted from using these which have been grown or bred in unsanitary environment. Due to these details, it’s of the utmost significance that nice care be exercised in deciding on and getting ready shell fish.