May 25
Shishamo Smelt Spirinchus lanceolatus
A smelt from Hokkaido, Japan. The fish is said to resemble a willow leaf, and its Japanese name, 柳葉魚, reflects this; shishamo, is derived from the Ainu name for the same fish, susam. In Japanese cuisine, this fish is grilled or fried whole and served with its roe intact. Due to declining catches in recent years, attempts have been made to commercially farm the fish in Japan.
image by Totti