Lushan Stone Fish

Lushan Stone Fish

　　The Lushan Stone Fish is transparent in color, scaleless, and typically measures around 30–40 millimeters in length—about the same size as a rust-stitched needle. Even after growing for seven to eight years, it doesn’t exceed one inch in length, hence its other name, “Rust-Stitched Needle.”

　　The Lushan Stone Fish is called a “stone fish” because it lives year-round in the mountain’s springs and waterfalls, building its nests in the crevices of rocks along the flowing water.

　　The stone fish grows in the valley streams of Lushan. It is small, long, and slightly flat, with larger ones measuring two or three centimeters and smaller ones four or five. Its flesh is tender, delicious, nourishing, and cooling, with a richly aromatic flavor, making it widely renowned. Stone fish can be stir-fried, braised, stewed, or soaked—it is rich in nutrients and especially valued as a nourishing food for new mothers.

　　In addition to Lushan, stone fish have also been found in the mountainous areas of Jiujiang, Yichun, Ganzhou, and Ji’an, but those from Lushan are considered the highest quality. “Stir-Fried Stone Fish with Eggs” is one of Lushan’s signature specialty dishes. Together with stone chicken and stone ear fungus, it is known as one of Lushan’s “Three Stones.”