Species · GBIF taxon 2415822
Haddock
Melanogrammus aeglefinusAlso known as Haddie
Haddock cruise the cold, salty depths of the North Atlantic in large, fast-moving schools, feeding primarily on small invertebrates along the seabed. They are easily recognized by a prominent, dark lateral line and a distinctive black smudge above each pectoral fin, colloquially known as the devil's thumbprint. These groundfish play a vital role in the marine food web, linking benthic production to larger predators like cod, seals, and sharks.
MarineDeep-WaterSchooling
Licensed referenceJ. Deeds FDA / Public Domain (FDA) · Public Domain (FDA)
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Brittle Stars
- Sand Eels
- Herring Eggs
Predators
- Atlantic Cod
- Halibut
- Harbor Seals
ThreatsOverfishing, habitat degradation from bottom trawling, and climate-driven ocean warming.
HabitatsCold, deep marine waters over sandy, gravelly, or muddy sea floors, typically at depths of 40 to 150 meters.
Life spanUp to 14 to 20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyGadidae
- SpeciesMelanogrammus aeglefinus
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.
- What to notice
- Recognizable by a dark lateral line curving along its silver-grey flank and a distinctive black smudge above the pectoral fin.
- Support conservation
- Support sustainable seafood initiatives and advocate for marine protected areas that restrict destructive bottom trawling.
Responsible observation
- Identify by markings: Look for the dark lateral line and the distinctive black thumbprint mark above the pectoral fin.
- Observe responsibly: Support sustainable fisheries by checking catch methods and regional population health before purchasing.
Close Relative NOAA / Public Domain (NOAA) · Public Domain (NOAA)
Close Relative 
Close Relative Georges Jansoone / CC BY 3.0 · CC BY 3.0
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