![By NOAA's Fisheries Collection , SEFSC Pascagoula Laboratory; Collection of Brandi Noble, NOAA/NMFS/SEFSC (http://www.photolib.noaa.gov/htmls/fish4120.htm) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ASplendid_alfonsino_(_Beryx_splendens_).jpg)
By NOAA's Fisheries Collection , SEFSC Pascagoula Laboratory; Collection of Brandi Noble, NOAA/NMFS/SEFSC (http://www.photolib.noaa.gov/htmls/fish4120.htm) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Alfonsino
Alternative Names: Red Bream, Imperador, Goldeneye Perch
Monterey Bay Recommendation: Look for other "Best Choice" seafood options first. If none are available, alfonsino ("kinmedai" in sushi) caught in New Zealand with mid water trawls is a "Good Alternative." However, "Avoid" alfonsino caught in New Zealand's BXY3 Management Area that includes the South Island's lower western, southern and eastern waters.
Uses in Cooking: These can be grilled, baked, broiled, poached, or used in curries.
Similar Fish: Red Snapper, Tai Snapper, Golden Snapper.
Description: Firm white flesh has smaller flakes than red snapper. It is mild flavored and sweet making it very versatile in the kitchen.
Fun Facts: The bright red color of this fish is actually a form of camouflage because at the depths that it lives, red is filtered out of the color spectrum. Juveniles have spines on their heads, which they lose when they reach maturity.