Why is the smell of fish so pungent compared to other foods derived from animals?
Fish contains a lot of a compound called **trimethylamine oxide**. When the fish dies, bacteria begin to break down this compound, which results in terrible odors. Fish use this compound to maintain a healthy osmotic balance in their bodies (basically to make sure their balance of water to salt i…
The Short Answer
Fish contains a lot of a compound called **trimethylamine oxide**. When the fish dies, bacteria begin to break down this compound, which results in terrible odors. Fish use this compound to maintain a healthy osmotic balance in their bodies (basically to make sure their balance of water to salt is correct). Mammals and birds simply don't have much of this compound. They use other chemicals to help maintain a healthy osmotic balance.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Compound, fish, balance
This explanation focuses on compound, fish, balance and spans 72 words across 5 sentences. The depth is typical for Animals questions (category average: 68 words), striking a balance between accessibility and completeness.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Fish contains a lot of a compound called **trimethylamine oxide**.” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 5 connected points.
How This Compares in Animals
Ranked #196 of 500 Animals questions by answer depth (top 40%). This falls in the detailed tier — above average depth. The explanation goes beyond surface-level but keeps things accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why the smell of fish so pungent compared to other foods derived from animals?
Fish contains a lot of a compound called **trimethylamine oxide**. When the fish dies, bacteria begin to break down this compound, which results in terrible odors. Fish use this compound to maintain a healthy osmotic balance in their bodies…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Animals questions?
This is an above-average answer at 72 words, ranked #196 of 500 Animals questions by depth. The key concepts covered are compound, fish, balance.
What approach does this answer take to explain the smell of fish so pungent compared to other foods derived?
The explanation uses direct explanation across 72 words. It is categorized under Animals and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.