Species · GBIF taxon 2415777
Blue Whiting
Micromesistius poutassouAlso known as Poutassou, Couch's Whiting
Blue whiting form massive, dense schools in the mesopelagic zone, migrating vertically each day to feed on zooplankton under the cover of darkness. Their slender, streamlined bodies feature a distinct bluish-grey back that fades into a brilliant silvery belly, helping them blend into the open ocean depths. As a vital link in the marine food web, they support vast populations of larger predatory fish, marine mammals, and seabirds.
SchoolingDeep-waterMarine
Licensed referenceMikko Heino / CC BY-SA 3.0 · CC BY-SA 3.0
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Krill
- Copepods
- Amphipods
Predators
- Atlantic Cod
- Harp Seal
- Common Dolphin
ThreatsOverfishing, climate change affecting plankton distribution, and marine pollution
HabitatsMesopelagic and pelagic waters over continental slopes
Life spanUp to 20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyGadidae
- SpeciesMicromesistius poutassou
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Deep-water observation: Spot them by joining deep-sea research or specialized pelagic diving expeditions.
- Commercial tracking: Follow sustainable seafood guides to understand their role in global fisheries.
Image unavailableClose Relative 
Family Member NOAA / Public Domain (NOAA) · Public Domain (NOAA)
Family Member J. Deeds FDA / Public Domain (FDA) · Public Domain (FDA)
Family Member Georges Jansoone / CC BY 3.0 · CC BY 3.0
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