Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gadidae that grows up to 200 cm.
North Atlantic and Arctic Ocean: from Ungava Bay (Canada) to Cape Hatteras; Greenland, Iceland, Barents Sea to the Bay of Biscay.
Description
Atlantic cod is a large predator of the family Gadidae that can exceptionally reach 200 cm. The body is brown to greenish with many dark speckles, a pale curved lateral line and a prominent chin barbel. Three dorsal fins and two anal fins are characteristic. The species lives near the bottom of the northern Atlantic and the North Sea, hunting invertebrates and fish, including juvenile cod, mainly at dawn and dusk. Cod spawn large numbers of pelagic eggs in winter and early spring. Because of heavy overfishing the species is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic cod?
The Atlantic cod has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Striking chin barbel, pale curved lateral line and three dorsal and two anal fins; back scattered with numerous small dark spots.
Where does the Atlantic cod live?
The Atlantic cod lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North Atlantic and Arctic Ocean: from Ungava Bay (Canada) to Cape Hatteras; Greenland, Iceland, Barents Sea to the Bay of Biscay.
How big does the Atlantic cod get?
The Atlantic cod grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 100 cm.
Is the Atlantic cod dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic cod is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic cod edible?
Yes, the Atlantic cod is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Atlantic cod and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gadus
More from the family Gadidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic cod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic cod is one of 12,519 species in the app.