The ahi and mahi are two types of fish that are commonly eaten in Hawaii. Both are good sources of protein, but there are some differences between the two. For example, the ahi is also known as the yellowfin tuna, and the mahi is also known as the dolphinfish. Both are considered a delicacy, but some people have no idea what makes ahi and mahi so different. So what are the other differences between ahi and mahi?
The article will focus on the ahi and mahi, the difference between ahi and mahi, and how they are used in Hawaii.
Summary Table
| Ahi | Mahi |
| Is the name for yellowfin tuna | Is the name for dolphinfish |
| Belongs to genus Thunnus albacares | Belongs to genus Coryphaena hippurus |
| Found in warmer water | Found in colder water |
| Tastes more delicate | Has a stronger flavor |
Definitions:
What is ahi?
Ahi is the Hawaiian word for yellowfin tuna. The scientific name for yellowfin tuna is Thunnus albacares. There are several different species of tuna, but in Hawaii, the term “ahi” refers to yellowfin tuna only. Tuna is a general term that can refer to any fish in the family Scombridae (which includes both mackerels and tunas). Tuna are fish that have long, streamlined bodies and swim by moving their long tails back and forth. They are fast swimmers and can migrate long distances. Tuna live in warm waters throughout the world. In Hawaii, we have two species of tuna: yellowfin and bigeye. Yellowfin tuna are found throughout the Hawaiian islands while bigeye tuna are only found around the main Hawaiian islands.
What is mahi?
Mahi is the Hawaiian word for dolphinfish or dolphin fish. The scientific name for dolphinfish is Coryphaena hippurus. Dolphinfish have large mouths with lots of sharp teeth and strong jaws that allow them to eat prey bigger than themselves (including other fish). They are often called “tuna” because they look like tuna and they are a similar size. Dolphinfish are warm-blooded fish that can live in both warm and cold waters. They have a torpedo-shaped body with a forked tail. Dolphinfish live in the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean and can be found throughout the Hawaiian islands.
How are ahi and mahi used in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, ahi is eaten as sashimi (raw fish) and as poke (sliced raw fish mixed with other ingredients). It is also eaten grilled or baked. Ahi can be prepared in many different ways. Mahi is also eaten as sashimi, poke, grilled, or baked. It is often served in sandwiches or tacos. Hawaiian cuisine also includes several dishes that use both ahi and mahi.
Aside from Hawaii, ahi can be found in restaurants throughout the United States. Mahi is less common, but can be found in restaurants in Hawaii and some parts of the mainland United States.
Ahi Vs. Mahi
There are many differences between Ahi and Mahi. Here are some of them:
1. The names
Ahi and Mahi are names for different species of fish. Ahi is the Hawaiian name for the yellowfin tuna, which is one of the most popular types of tuna. Mahi is the Hawaiian name for the dolphinfish, which is also known as a dorado or mahi-mahi.
2. The scientific names
The scientific name for Ahi is Thunnus albacares. The scientific name for Mahi is Coryphaena hippurus.
3. The meat colors
Ahi has a dark red meat, which is a result of the high amounts of the pigment myoglobin. Mahi has a pinkish meat, which is also a result of the high amounts of myoglobin but is less red than Ahi.
4. The sizes
Ahi is usually caught at sizes of 2 to 4 pounds. Mahi is usually caught at sizes of 20 to 100 pounds.
5. The lifespans
Ahi can live for about 10 years, and Mahi can live for about 20 years.
6. The habits
Ahi lives in the warmer waters of the Pacific Ocean. Mahi can also be found in the Pacific ocean, but usually, Mahi live in the colder waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
7. The lifespans
Ahi spawn between June and September, and Mahi spawn between May and August.
8. The diet
Ahi eats mostly plankton, and Mahi eats mostly squid.
9. The dishes
Ahi and Mahi are popular fish that are eaten in Hawaii. Both of these fish are very popular among both tourists and locals alike. Here are some dishes that use Ahi or Mahi:
Ahi Poke (Raw) – Ahi Poke is raw fish that is mixed with soy sauce, seaweed, green onions, and other ingredients.
Sashimi – Sashimi is the Japanese version of raw fish. In Hawaii, it uses ahi or mahi instead of salmon.
Mahi Mahi with Jasmine Rice – Mahi Mahi is baked or grilled, and then served with jasmine rice.
Ahi Poke Nachos – Ahi Poke is served on top of tortilla chips, which are topped with cheese and green onions.
10. The flavor
Ahi is described as being “delicate, buttery, and creamy”. Mahi is described as being “stronger in flavor”.
11. The textures
Ahi has a firm texture, and Mahi has a flaky texture.
12. The serving temperatures
Ahi is served at temperatures between 41 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Mahi is served at temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
13. The popularity
Ahi is more popular than Mahi. In fact, it is one of the most popular types of tuna in the world. Mahi is also very popular, but it is not as popular as Ahi. They are known more in Hawaii than they are known in other parts of the world.
14. The prices
Ahi is generally more expensive than Mahi. Ahi costs around $20 per pound, while Mahi costs around $7 per pound.
