noun
Specifically refers to the juvenile stage of the Japanese amberjack (Seriola quinqueradiata), known as ブリ when adult. Used in culinary and fishing contexts.
See also: ブリ
この時期のワカナゴは脂がのっていて美味しい。
Young Japanese amberjack in this season is fatty and delicious.
漁師がワカナゴの群れを見つけた。
The fisherman found a school of young Japanese amberjack.
ブリ is the adult Japanese amberjack, while ワカナゴ is the young stage. The name changes as the fish grows.
The name ワカナゴ likely derives from 若 (young) and 魚子 (small fish), reflecting its juvenile stage. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.