Species
Atlantic Cod
Gadus morhuaAlso known as Cod, Codling, Atlantic Codfish
Atlantic cod are heavy-bodied predators recognizable by three dorsal fins, a pale lateral line running along their flanks, and a prominent chin barbel used to probe the seafloor for food. These adaptable schooling fish inhabit deep ocean waters as well as shallow coastal bays across the cold northern ocean. Historically forming massive shoals that drove coastal economies for centuries, populations plummeted in the late twentieth century due to industrial overfishing.
ColdwaterMarinePredatory
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyCapelin, Herring, Crab
Predators
- Harbor Seal
- Grey Seal
- Large Sharks
ThreatsHistorical overfishing, warming ocean temperatures, habitat disruption from bottom trawling
HabitatsCold marine waters, continental shelves, coastal bays, rocky or sandy ocean floors
Life spanUp to 25 years
Classification
- OrderGadiformes
- FamilyGadidae
- GenusGadus
- SpeciesGadus morhua
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
- Recognized by three dorsal fins, a pale lateral line along the side, and mottled greenish-brown scales.
- Support conservation
- Adhere to local fishery management rules and support sustainably harvested marine choices.
Responsible observation
- Identification: Look for three distinct dorsal fins, two anal fins, and a chin barbel.
- Diving Observations: Remain quiet and steady near benthic reefs where adults forage along the seafloor.
Close Relative David Csepp NMFS / Public Domain (NOAA) · Public Domain (NOAA)
Family Member J. Deeds FDA / Public Domain (FDA) · Public Domain (FDA)
Family Member Unknown / CC-BY · cc-by
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