description Oilfish Overview
The oilfish, Ruvettus pretiosus, is a large marine fish in the family Gempylidae with a broad distribution in tropical and temperate oceans. It inhabits deep offshore waters and has flesh containing high concentrations of wax esters that humans cannot readily digest. Eating substantial portions can cause oily diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms, which has led some authorities to regulate or discourage its sale for food.
help Oilfish FAQ
What is oilfish?
Oilfish is the common name for Ruvettus pretiosus, a deep-water fish in the family Gempylidae. It has a broad distribution in tropical and temperate oceans.
Why can eating oilfish cause digestive problems?
Oilfish flesh contains high concentrations of wax esters that humans cannot readily digest. Eating substantial amounts can cause oily gastrointestinal symptoms, sometimes called steatorrhea.
Where does oilfish live?
Ruvettus pretiosus lives in deep offshore waters rather than shallow coastal habitats. It is caught in several tropical and temperate ocean regions.
Is oilfish the same as escolar?
Oilfish and escolar are closely related deep-water fishes in the Gempylidae family, but they are different species. Oilfish is Ruvettus pretiosus, while escolar is usually identified as Lepidocybium flavobrunneum.
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