Species · GBIF taxon 8084280
Atlantic Cod
Gadus morhuaAlso known as Cod, Codling
Atlantic cod are heavy-bodied marine fish distinguished by a prominent chin barbel, three dorsal fins, and a pale lateral line curving above their pectoral fins. They are highly adaptable predators that patrol the cold seafloors of the North Atlantic, feeding on a wide variety of invertebrates and smaller fish. Historically forming massive schools, their populations have been profoundly shaped and depleted by centuries of intensive commercial fishing.
MarineCold-waterSchooling
Licensed referenceNOAA / Public Domain (NOAA) · Public Domain (NOAA)
- diet
- Carnivorous, feeding on fish, crabs, mollusks, and worms
- family
- Gadidae
- threats
- Overfishing, climate change warming their cold-water habitats, and habitat destruction from bottom trawling
- life Span
- Up to 25 years
VU
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Atlantic cod populations have suffered severe declines due to historic overfishing and remain vulnerable to habitat loss and warming ocean temperatures.
Practice catch-and-release with circle hooks to minimize injury, and strictly adhere to local conservation regulations.- Responsible Angling: Follow local catch limits and seasonal closures to help rebuild vulnerable populations.
- Diving Encounters: Look for them near shipwrecks, rocky reefs, and kelp forests in cold northern waters.