The sanma (Pacific saury) that's caught at this time of year is rich with heart-healthy oils, and is considered a quintessential autumn delicacy in Japan.
But unlike other fall delicacies such as matsutake mushrooms, sanma has traditionally been considered affordable. This national favorite is in crisis, however, and seems to be following the pattern of other popular fish like bluefin tuna and eel.
There are dire reports about how the catch this year marked an all-time low. Factories that process the fish for canning have had to shut down or cut back their production. What's more, the fish that are being caught are smaller than usual, and the scarcity is driving prices up.