Which of the following is not a sign of good quality in fresh fish?

In the context of assessing the quality of fresh fish, a strong fish odor is an indicator of spoilage rather than freshness. Fresh fish should have a mild, pleasant smell, often reminiscent of the ocean, with no overpowering or unpleasant odors. When fish emits a strong or foul smell, it suggests that the fish is no longer fresh and may be starting to decompose.

The other characteristics—bright, clear eyes; firm, shiny skin; and bright red gills—are all signs of high quality in fresh fish. Clear eyes indicate freshness, as they tend to dull over time. Firm, shiny skin signifies that the fish is still in good condition, while bright red gills indicate that the fish is still alive or very recently killed, further suggesting freshness. Thus, recognizing a strong fish odor as a sign of poor quality helps in ensuring that only the best products are selected for consumption.