What is the Difference Between Catfish and Salmon?
Both catfish and salmon are harvested and consumed on a regular basis. Any grocery store that sells seafood is likely to have them both in supply, and there is always a spot on the grill for them. Although they are both parts of the seafood family, there are key differences between these two main courses.
Catfish Are More Popular in the Wild
Although both fish are plentiful in the wild, catfish are known for having larger numbers. This is because several members of the catfish family have become what is known as an invasive species. They migrate or are released from captivity. Then, they eat fish eggs of other species and procreate at an alarming rate, taking over the habitat as their own. This is one reason explaining why are so many catfish in the wild.
Another reason is that the release of catfish was done intentionally by humans. They are released into the wild to increase the numbers of catfish to keep up with demand in the market. This has led to a drastic increase in their numbers and may have contributed to the decline of salmon. Salmon are natural prey for larger species of catfish, hence why catfish are the invasive species of the two.
Salmon Has an Oily Flavor
Most people that prefer salmon over catfish enjoy the slightly oily flavor that it produces. It doesn’t seem to matter how salmon is cooked, whether it is on the grill or baked in the oven, it has that same slightly different flavor that catfish simply does not have.
Protein
Both catfish and salmon have protein, but the amounts are a little bit different. Half a gram of salmon will give someone approximately 40 grams of protein. A few ounces of catfish will only give a person approximately 16 grams of protein, though. Those that want to increase their protein intake are advised to eat more salmon instead of catfish.
Salmon is Higher in Fat
If there is one fish on the market that will give a person their daily dose of omega 3, it is salmon. This fish is known for being higher in oils and fats than other fish, and that includes catfish. Whether a person chooses one or the other depends on what they really need in their diet to make sure that they have all the vitamins and nutrients that their body requires.
Salmon is Known for Mercury Levels
Certain fish are known for having mercury in them, and salmon is one of them. This fish should only be consumed in small doses, and pregnant women are advised to avoid salmon because of this. When consumed in moderation, salmon is not known to cause any harm.
Consumers are advised to keep in mind that this applies to those that are caught in the wild. Often, farm-raised salmon do not contain any mercury levels.
Both fish have their own nutritional benefits that different people both need and enjoy. Salmon tastes delicious when baked, and catfish will make your mouth water when it is fried to perfection.
