For a long time it was believed that sea fish is the most useful and that it has fewer parasites and more useful substances.
River fish were not written off either. They are more accessible and in terms of vitamin content and nutritional value they are only slightly inferior to their sea counterparts.
But the point is that it is not the habitat that determines the usefulness of the fish, although it is not without it.
Research by scientists
As Cornell University researchers discovered, small fish species are more beneficial than large ones.
The conclusions were made after studying the inhabitants of the Amazon basin. 59 species of fish were studied.
It turned out that small fish contain essential microelements for health, but at the same time they contain significantly less dangerous mercury.
The longer a fish lives, the more harmful substances it accumulates.
The predatory lifestyle of large individuals also affects the accumulation of mercury.
At the same time, the nutritional value of small fish is just as high, and the minimal risk of exposure to harmful substances makes small fish a valuable food source.
Conclusions of scientists
Although the research was conducted in the Amazon basin, scientists say their findings are valid for fauna around the world.
In addition, the reorientation towards small fish will have a positive impact on the environment and will change food security in the world for the better.
