Largescale blackfish nigiri

Largescale blackfish (Mejina)

【Nigiri sushi: Shiromi】
The term “mejina” can refer to three species: the Mejina (Girella punctata), the Black Mejina (Girella leonina), and the Okina Mejina (Girella mezina). All three belong to the genus Girella and inhabit waters around Japan. The Mejina and Black Mejina are caught in coastal fisheries and are also popular targets among rockfish anglers. The Okina Mejina, by contrast, is found farther south, and catches along the Japanese coast are scarce.

The main fishing grounds for Mejina are in the Sea of Japan, from the Hokuriku region to the San’in region, where substantial quantities are caught. Black Mejina, meanwhile, is caught along the Pacific coast south of the Bōsō Peninsula. Although Black Mejina is generally considered the better food fish, Mejina is also delicious, particularly in winter.

Although Mejina resembles a seabream in appearance, it is more closely related to sea bass. Market supplies are limited, and it is not regularly available at sushi restaurants. Its flesh has a beautiful pale pink hue that contrasts strikingly with its black body. In winter, its rich, fatty flavor is more pronounced than that of seabream, and it also has a stronger umami taste. In summer, it can sometimes develop a slightly distinctive aroma, so blanching or lightly searing the surface before serving it as nigiri sushi is a good option.

【Also known as】
Large scale black fish、Rubber fish

【Related contents】
List of White flesh fish (Shiromi)

(Revision date: October 27, 2026)