A pescetarian, also called pesco-vegetarian, is a person who eats fish and seafood but avoids red meat and poultry. The pattern combines the plant-rich base of vegetarian eating with the nutritional advantages of fish: long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, iodine, selenium, vitamin D, and high-quality protein. Many adopt it for health reasons, for animal-welfare concerns focused on land animals, or as a stepping stone toward full vegetarianism. Nutritionally it is among the easiest dietary patterns to balance, though attention is still needed to mercury in large predatory fish, sustainability of fish choices, and the same fruit, vegetable, and wholegrain foundations as any healthy diet. The food industry increasingly caters to pescetarians with dedicated menu options and products, recognising a large and growing segment between omnivores and vegetarians.