Coral fish is a type of delicious small fish, and is characterized by its wonderful flavor, which is mainly due to its feeding on shrimp, which gives it a distinctive taste. Coral fish contains a high percentage of omega-3 acids, in addition to vitamins, minerals and healthy proteins. In this article, we will review the many benefits of coral fish in Dalili Medical and how you can benefit from it.

**Information about coral fish**

 

Coral fish belongs to the family of bony carps, and lives mainly in areas near the sea shelf. These fish prefer shallow waters, whether salty or fresh, and often inhabit coral reefs, which made them known as coral fish. The ecosystem of these fish is characterized by complexity and uniqueness compared to other fish environments. In Egypt, it is called "coral", while in Kuwait it is known as "Andaq fish", and in Saudi Arabia it is called "fat" or "ra'an". Coral fish is sold either fresh, frozen or ground. This fish is characterized by its rectangular shape compressed from the sides, its large head with a convex edge, in addition to its stacked teeth that cover the scales of the sides of the head and the gill cover, while the area below the eyes lacks scales. Coral fish feed on aquatic crustaceans, shellfish, cephalopods, and small fish. Its most prominent colors are: black, pink, and silver. Coral also has a dorsal fin that branches into about 13 front spines, interspersed with 13 rays, and the common sex in coral fish is hermaphrodites.

*What does coral fish eat?**

 

Coral fish feed on invertebrates found in the oceans, where it mainly depends on shrimp, in addition to some types of algae and various marine animals.

**What is the flavor of coral fish?**

 

Coral fish is characterized by its sweet and light flavor, similar to the flavor of shrimp, which makes it suitable for preparation in many ways such as grilling, cooking it whole, serving it as fillets, or eating it raw as sashimi. It is also considered a medium-fat white fish, and its skin can also be eaten.

**Types of coral fish**

There are many species of coral fish, and the most prominent known species are:

. **Abu Atab coral**: It is considered one of the best types of coral, and it resembles the Wazini coral but lacks the blue spots. It is characterized by its colorful back and prominent head.

. **Wazini coral**: It is considered one of the most beautiful types of coral in terms of shape, as its dorsal fins are distinguished by their length, especially in the first two spines. It can be identified by the small blue spots on its back.

. **Bajrouh coral**: Also known as the Bagrouat coral, it resembles the gazelle but is characterized by the presence of a ridge above its head and its slightly wider eyes. Its fins are normal without any additions.

. **Ghazala Coral**: It is considered one of the least expensive types of coral, but it is distinguished by its delicious taste. It is characterized by its long mouth and normal fins without any additions.

. **Abu Nazara Coral**: Also known as Abu Sharara (Juha fish), it is considered one of the most beautiful fish in terms of taste. It is found in abundance in the Red Sea, and is easy to catch at night.

**Abu Atb Coral Fish** Abu Atb Coral is considered one of the most famous types of fish in the Red Sea, especially in the Suez region, as it is distinguished by its wonderful taste and many health benefits. Suez is famous for its skill in catching this type, which makes it highly sought after by consumers. This type is known for its distinctive dorsal line, and can be prepared in many ways such as grilling, frying, or in casseroles, and is widely available among fishermen.

**Free Coral (Andaq)** Andaq is considered one of the well-known types of coral fish, as it is characterized by its unique silver color that tends slightly to pink. The weight of one fish reaches about 2 kilograms, while its average length is about 60 centimeters. Interestingly, the Andak initially lived in the waters of the Gulf of Suez, then moved to the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It is usually caught using trawl nets, especially in shallow areas and open seas during the winter.

**Nutritional elements**

Coral fish is considered a rich source of nutrients that enhance the health and strength of the body. The most prominent of these elements are:

**Protein:** Coral fish contains a high percentage of animal protein, which plays an essential role in building and renewing cells, tissues, muscles, nerves, hormones and antibodies. Protein also contributes to enhancing the feeling of satiety and helps in weight management.

**Unsaturated fats:** Coral fish contains unsaturated fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the health of the heart, blood vessels, brain, eyes and skin. These fats also contribute to reducing levels of harmful cholesterol and increasing levels of good cholesterol in the blood.

**Vitamins:** Coral fish contains a group of important vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Vitamin A helps promote eye, skin, and immune system health, while vitamin D contributes to improving calcium absorption and bone and teeth health. Vitamin B12 plays a role in the formation of red blood cells and nerve health.

**Minerals**: Coral fish contains important minerals, such as iron, zinc, selenium, and phosphorus. Iron helps transport oxygen to all parts of the body. Zinc helps maintain immune system health and wounds. Selenium helps protect cells from damage. Phosphorus helps maintain bone and teeth health.

**Health benefits of coral fish**

 

- Contributes to reducing the risk of heart disease.

- Protects against coronary artery disease, which threatens the health of half of the world's population.

- Eating coral fish helps enhance concentration and increase knowledge.

- Raises iodine and vitamin D levels in the body.

- Contains lower amounts of mercury, making it a safe choice for pregnant women.

- Promotes the development of the fetus's nervous system.

- Contributes to strengthening memory in children.

- Gives a feeling of activity thanks to its content of fetaMinat.

- Helps relieve migraine pain.

- Has a positive effect in treating respiratory disorders.

- Protects children from cancer and other malignant diseases.

- Contributes to protecting brain cells and relieves joint pain.

- Improves digestion and helps overcome indigestion.

- Contributes to maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

- Maintains bone health and protects them from osteoporosis and inflammation.

- Enhances cognitive and mental abilities, so it is recommended to eat it during study periods and exams in particular.

- Rich in essential vitamins that give the body a feeling of activity and vitality.

**Benefits of coral fish**

Fish consumption, including coral fish, is considered to have significant health benefits among adults.

Strong evidence suggests that eating fish, especially oily species, contributes to reducing the risk of coronary heart disease. Estimates show that consuming fish can reduce the risk of death from these diseases by up to 36%, thanks to the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and fish products.

Coronary artery disease is a global health issue that affects all population groups. It is recommended that adults consume 250 mg of EPA and DHA for optimal protection against these diseases.

**Benefits of Red Coral**Red coral is a major source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) in our diet, which are essential for our health.

With the growing awareness and focus on the health benefits of these fatty acids, the demand for omega-3 supplements has increased. However, this may not be the most efficient way to utilize our fish resources. Taking supplements may result in consuming far more long-chain omega-3s than the recommended daily allowance, and in some cases this may be justified, but in most cases it may be unnecessary. Several recent studies suggest that the benefits of taking omega-3 supplements regularly are limited compared to the benefits of eating fish regularly. An economical and effective way to get long-chain omega-3s, as well as providing the body with many essential nutrients, including EPA and DHA. The availability of long-chain omega-3s is limited, and should be accessible to as many people as possible. Eating fish directly...

**Benefits of grilled coral fish**Eating fish, such as grilled coral fish, is associated with many health benefits. Fish is a rich source of many essential nutrients, including protein and long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), in addition to a range of vitamins and minerals such as selenium, iodine, potassium, vitamin D, and vitamin B.

Many people suffer from a deficiency in some of these micronutrients, such as iodine and vitamin D, and increasing fish consumption can help improve their levels in the body.

Studies suggest that EPA and DHA found in oily fish and fish oil are responsible for some of the health benefits associated with eating fish, such as grilled coral fish.

**Benefits of coral fish for pregnant women**Fish, such as coral fish, are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which play a vital role in the growth and development of the fetus's brain, although they may also contain mercury.

The US Food and Drug Administration recommends that pregnant women eat two to three servings of fish per week, choosing species that contain low levels of mercury, such as coral fish.

Coral fish contributes to enhancing the development of the fetus's nervous system.

### How to prepare coral fish

 

#### Ingredients:

- 2 large coral fish

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- ½ cup oil

- 2 tablespoons ghee

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Lemon rings for decoration

- Finely chopped parsley for decoration

#### Preparation steps:

1. Clean the fish well and wash it under running water.

2. Season the fish inside and out with salt and black pepper, then add oil.

3. Grill the fish on an electric grill, and spread the ghee and lemon juice on it from time to time so that it does not dry out while grilling.

4. Transfer the fish to a serving plate and garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley.

### Baked Coral Fish

#### Ingredients:

- 1 kg coral fish

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 3 cloves of minced garlic

- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 carrot, cut into rings

- 1 potato, cut into cubes

- 1 onion, cut into cubes

- 1 turnip, cut into cubes

- 1 green pepper, cut into cubes

- 1 red pepper, cut into cubes

- 2 tablespoons oil

- 2 tablespoons fresh dill

- Finely chopped parsley, for decoration

#### Preparation method:

 

1. Clean the fish well and wash it under running water.

2. Season the fish inside and out with salt, black pepper, garlic, oyster sauce and lemon juice.

3. Place the fish in a baking tray with carrots, potatoes, onions, turnips, green pepper and red pepper, then spread the oil over them.

4. Place the tray in the oven preheated to 180°C.

5. Once cooked, transfer the fish and vegetables to a serving dish and garnish with chopped dill and parsley.

### Fried coral fish

#### Ingredients:

- 1 cup flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 8 small coral fish

- 1 cup oil for frying

- Lemon rings for decoration

- Finely chopped parsley for decoration

#### Preparation method:

 

1. In a bowl, mix the flour with the salt and black pepper.

2. Dip the fish in the flour mixture and turn until completely covered, then shake off the excess.

3. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.

4. Fry the fish in the oil until cooked through on both sides, then drain.Drain well on paper towels.

5. Serve the fish on a serving plate and garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley.

Are there any harms to eating coral fish?

There are no scientific studies or research that proves that there are any harms to eating coral fish. However, some people prefer to eat other types of fish because coral fish contains a large number of bones, in addition to being sold with its skin. The fish is usually sold whole, which makes many people prefer to buy fish that have been removed from the bones and skin.