Which fish maw species are most commonly found in the market?

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Blackspotted Croaker is the Most Commonly Identified Species in Fish Maw Products

The blackspotted croaker (Protonibea diacanthus) was the most frequently detected species in fish maw products examined in a recent study, representing 58 out of 480 samples. This species is currently listed as near threatened on the IUCN Red List, indicating a potential risk of becoming endangered in the near future. The research, which analysed fish maw sold in Malaysia and Singapore, employed genetic methods to identify species due to the extensive processing that renders visual identification nearly impossible.
Endangered Species Detected in Fish Maw

DNA analysis revealed the presence of six critically endangered and endangered fish species within the fish maw products. Among these were the European eel and the large yellow croaker, both classified as critically endangered by the IUCN. The study identified DNA from the European eel in eleven samples, despite an export ban implemented by the European Union in 2010.
Other Identified Endangered Species

In addition to the European eel and large yellow croaker, the study also found DNA from four other endangered species: the cassava croaker, American eel, fourfinger threadfin, and iridescent shark. These findings underscore the challenges in tracing the origins of fish maw, a delicacy derived from the dried swim bladders of fish, which is widely consumed across Southeast and East Asia.
Challenges in Species Identification and Trade Regulation

The heavy processing of fish maw, involving cleaning and washing, makes visual identification of the original fish species nearly impossible. Researchers relied on DNA extraction from 118 samples collected in Malaysia and 362 from Singapore between October 2023 and April 2024. Furthermore, existing trade regulations use broad commodity classifications, lumping various dried fish products together, which complicates efforts to track specific species and their sustainability.

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Which fish maw species are most commonly found in the market?

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