What Are Fish Eggs Called?
Last Updated Apr 7, 2020 1:17:39 AM ET

The eggs of a fish, sometimes along with the membrane of the ovary that holds them, are called "roe." The word is a noun and is both singular and plural.
Fish eggs consumed by humans are typically referred to as caviar and eaten raw. The original designation of caviar applied only to roe from wild sturgeon in the Caspian and Black Sea, narrowed down even more to the specific species of Beluga, Ossetra and Sevruga. The term caviar is now accepted for other fish, including other sturgeon, salmon, whitefish, tuna and steelhead trout. The eggs are salt-cured for safety and sieved to remove extraneous tissues and membranes. Some are additionally pasteurized.
More From Reference

How Do You Apply for Social Security Benefits?

How Did the VW Beetle Become an Emblem of the '60s?

We Explain the Complicated History of Myanmar and Aung San Suu Kyi

Financing the Future: Setting Up Savings Plans for Grandchildren

Responsible Retirement: What's the Maximum Amount You Can Contribute to a 401(k)?

10 Small Business Grants for Women Entrepreneurs