Proximate Composition, Nutritional Lipid Quality, and Health Indices of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides Lacepede, 1802) from Several Mediterranean Reservoirs

Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides Lacepede, 1802) is one of the most searched species in sports fishing, being culturally consumed over the last century. The aim of this study was to characterize the proximate composition and nutritional lipid quality of wild bass from the south of Portugal and compare it temporally (winter vs summer) and spatially, according to the reservoir where individuals were captured. Reservoir characteristics and season had significant effects on the proximate composition and nutritional lipid quality of this species in Mediterranean ecosystems. In largemouth bass fillet, omega 3-FA family was the most representative in all reservoirs and seasons. Bass are carnivorous, with high values of C18:1 omega 9. Results also reveal the presence of macroalgae, microalgae and heterotrophic bacteria fatty acids origins. Lipid health indexes suggest that the flesh of wild bass provides nutritional benefits based on its lipid profile. Results contribute to value wild largemouth bass as a gastronomic item.