Songhua River Salmon

Songhua River Salmon

　　Salmon, scientifically known as Oncorhynchus, is one of the world’s most famous freshwater fish species, primarily distributed in the northern Pacific Ocean and the northern regions of Europe, Asia, and the Americas. In China, its main production areas are in the northeastern region, where it is called "dahama" (or "1ha fish").

　　In China, it is most abundant in the Wusuli River, Heilongjiang River, and Songhua River, and is also found in the Tumen River, Hunchun River, Mi River, Suifen River, Nen River, Mudan River, as well as the Dajiaxi River in Taiwan Province. Among these, the Heilongjiang River basin is especially renowned for its abundant dahama, earning it the title “Home of the Dahama.”

　　Salmon can grow up to 40 kilograms, though they typically weigh between 5–10 kilograms. They have an oval, laterally compressed body, a raised back, sharp teeth, small silver-gray scales, and display orange stripes during the spawning season. The flesh of salmon is firm, delicious, pink in color, and elastic. With a smooth texture, it can be eaten raw or cooked and is a highly favored fish among many.

　　Salmon is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, which can effectively lower blood lipids and cholesterol, helping to prevent cardiovascular diseases. Eating it just twice a week can reduce the risk of fatal heart attacks by one-third. Salmon also contains a substance called astaxanthin, which is a very powerful antioxidant. It is also rich in Ω-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the brain, retina, and nervous system, helping to enhance brain function, prevent senile dementia, and protect against vision decline.

　　Salmon can effectively help prevent the onset and progression of chronic diseases such as diabetes. It is highly nutritious and is honored as the “treasure of the waters.”

　　For busy white-collar workers, adding two slices of salmon to your breakfast sandwich not only improves skin complexion but also provides quality protein to energize you for the day. However, the only downside of salmon is that it does not provide sufficient dietary fiber. This can be balanced out by choosing whole-grain bread or pairing it with vegetables.

　　Legend has it that when Emperor Taizong of Tang was leading an eastern campaign and reached the banks of the Heilongjiang River during the White Dew season, he was besieged by enemies with no external reinforcements or internal food supplies. Just as the emperor was at his wit's end, one of his ministers suggested, “Why not pray to the Jade Emperor to borrow fish from the Dragon King of the East Sea to relieve our hunger?” The Jade Emperor then ordered the Dragon King of the East Sea to send a black dragon leading a school of salmon to guard the river. With the fish to eat, the soldiers grew stronger and achieved a great victory. Originally, horses did not eat fish, but from then on, they began to eat salmon—and only salmon. Hence, salmon came to be called “dama fish.” Many years later, during another White Dew season, a tribal leader named Shiradaru and his troops were cornered by enemies at the Ussuri River, with no way forward, pursuers behind, and no food supplies. In a critical moment, a strategist advised Shiradaru, “Why not follow Emperor Taizong’s example and pray to the Dragon King of the East Sea to borrow fish?” Hearing this, the black dragon once again led the salmon to the Ussuri River, saving Shiradaru and his people. They then settled along the Heilongjiang and Ussuri rivers, and their descendants are today’s Hezhe people. Thus, around the time of White Dew each year, large schools of salmon arrive in the Heilong and Ussuri rivers. The Hezhe people call “dama fish” “dawayimaha,” and over time, the fish came to be known as “1ha fish.”