Yellowback seabream nigiri

Yellowback seabream (Kidai)

【Nigiri: Shiromi】
Yellowback seabream (Dentex hypselosomus, kidai) is also known as “renkodai” and is primarily sold under this name in fish markets. Juveniles of chidai, like those of chidai (Evynnis tumifrons) and madai (Pagrus major), are sometimes called “kasugo” when used as sushi toppings.

In Japanese coastal waters, chidai is caught in areas such as the East China Sea. Since much of the catch comes from bottom trawling, fish in excellent condition can be difficult to find. By contrast, fresh ones caught by longline or hook-and-line fishing are delicious when served as sashimi. In particular, “kawashimo-zukuri,” a preparation in which the skin is left on, allows diners to appreciate the flavor of the skin. Smaller ones are also often marinated in vinegar (kobujime) and used as sushi toppings.

Kidai is often considered inferior to madai (red seabream) in flavor and does not grow as large. However, freshness and the condition of the fish may also influence this assessment. In fact, fresh yellowback seabream caught by hook and line can be so delicious when served as nigiri sushi that it could easily be mistaken for red seabream. By carefully assessing the condition of the fish and bringing out its natural flavor through proper preparation, a sushi chef can overturn this common perception. This is where the chef’s skill truly shines.

【Also known as】
Pricess perch

【What is Renkodai】
Yellowback seabream (Kidai) is distributed south of Chiba Prefecture on the Pacific Ocean side, south of Niigata Prefecture on the Sea of Japan side, and in the East China Sea. They mainly inhabit the margins of the continental shelf at depths of 150 to 200 meters. The body length reaches 35 cm. As its name suggests, its body color is red with a strong yellowish tinge compared to Crimson seabream (Chidai) and Red seabream (Madai), but it does not have blue spots. It is also known as Renkodai. They are sometimes called shiba-ren, ko-ren, chu-ren, and dai-ren from smallest to largest.

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

(Revision date: November 2, 2026)