Echeng Mandarin Fish

Echeng Mandarin Fish

Echeng Mandarin Fish is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　“Echeng Mandarin Fish” (commonly known as “Echeng Osmanthus Fish”), is primarily sourced from the waters of Liangzi Lake and the 90-Li Longgang in Ezhou. Liangzi Lake and Longgang are interconnected water systems that connect to the Yangtze River in Ezhou. As one of China’s top ten freshwater lakes, Liangzi Lake, along with the crystal-clear and unpolluted waters of the 90-Li Longgang, provides an ideal environment for the growth of mandarin fish. The region enjoys distinct seasons, abundant rainfall, ample sunlight, and a long frost-free period, with an average annual temperature of 17°C, an absolute minimum temperature of ≥ -7°C, an average January temperature of ≥ 4°C, an accumulated annual temperature of ≥10°C exceeding 5000°C, annual precipitation of 1282.8 mm, a frost-free period of 266 days, annual sunshine duration of 2003.8 hours, and total solar radiation of 110.3 kcal/cm². Mandarin fish are characterized by their large mouths, small scales, and round tails, with yellowish-green patterns on their backs that resemble osmanthus flowers—hence the common name “Osmanthus Fish.” The farming of mandarin fish in these waters has a history of 1200 years. In 1972, Echeng Mandarin Fish, along with whitebait, crucian carp, and Wuchang bream, was listed among the premium fish species by Hubei Province. In February 2014, “Echeng Mandarin Fish” was officially registered as a geographical indication certification trademark by the State Administration for Industry and Commerce.

　　 In recent years, recognizing the consistently strong market demand for mandarin fish, Echeng District in Ezhou City has shifted its development strategy, actively exploring advanced breeding techniques, and promoting mandarin fish farming as a key focus in adjusting the structure of the aquatic industry.

　　 Mandarin fish have a tall, laterally compressed body with a raised back. They feature large mouths, with the lower jaw distinctly longer than the upper jaw. Both the upper and lower jaws, as well as the vomer and palatine bones, are lined with teeth of varying sizes. The posterior edge of the preopercle is serrated, with four large spines on the lower margin; the posterior edge of the opercle has two large spines. The head is covered in fine scales; the lateral line curves upward along the dorsal arc. The dorsal fin is divided into two parts, connected to each other, with the front part consisting of hard spines and the rear part made up of soft fin rays. The body is yellowish-green with a grayish-white belly, and features irregular dark brown spots and patches along the sides. A narrow black stripe runs from the snout, through the eye, to just below the front part of the dorsal fin.

　　Echeng Mandarin Fish

　　Ezhou Premium Freshwater Fish Association

　　12430388

　　Mandarin Fish