Halibut, Atlantic (Hirame) Atlantic Halibut can live for 50
years, grow to over eight feet in length, and weigh over 660
pounds. They are found on both sides of the North Atlantic Ocean
as well as some parts of the Arctic Ocean. Atlantic Halibut were
once extremely abundant along the northeast U.S. and Canadian
coastlines, but populations have crashed due to centuries of
overfishing. Since the 1960′s, abundance has been historically
low and Atlantic Halibut have been virtually eliminated from
many areas where they once occurred. In Canada, Atlantic Halibut
are taken in bottom longlines with most of these fish sold in
the U.S. There is currently no directed fishery in the U.S. and
all landings occur as bycatch in groundfish fisheries.
Management plans have been largely ineffective as most
populations remain considerably depleted. Instead of Atlantic
Halibut, try Pacific Halibut. This fish may have high levels of
mercury that could pose a health risk to adults and children.
More mercury info here.