Denmark has decided to vote in a national fish to raise awareness about the “cultural, historic and culinary importance” of key marine species. The Danish Ministry for Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries also emphasises the importance of safeguarding fish stocks and protecting the marine environment for future generations. “Denmark already has a national dish, a national flower and a national bird,” Danish fisheries minister Jacob Jensen has said. “Now it is time for Denmark to get a national fish,” he says, adding that he has “already chosen where to put my cross” on the national poll. Six species of fish have been shortlisted – cod, plaice, mackerel, eel, sea trout and herring.