Waitrose is selling a new tropical fish species from Australia in a bid to slow the depletion of wild cod stocks.

The discerning supermarket is now selling the first barramundi to be farmed in the UK.

Farmed in Hampshire at one of the largest indoor fish farms in Europe, the barramundi are kept in 48 tanks heated to 28 degrees Celsius in order to replicate their natural Australian environment.

The fish is allegedly similar tasting to sea bass or Dover sole and is described as a perfect choice for home cooking.

Campbell Mitchell, director of Aquabella which runs the fish farm, told Fish Farmer magazine: "We are thrilled that a leading supermarket has taken the bold step of sourcing a fish that is still little known in this country.

"New Forest Barramundi is a perfect choice for the home cook – it has a delicate flavour, few bones and is extremely versatile to cook with."

The fish is expected to retail at £15 per kilogram.