Fin's Fish Guide
The Bastard cod (Pseudophycis barbata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Moridae that grows up to 63 cm.
Description
The bearded rock cod is a morid cod (Moridae) from the waters around southern Australia and New Zealand. The species has a stocky, red-brown body with large eyes and a single barbel under the chin. It lives on hard, rocky bottoms and around exposed reefs, often concealed in caves and crevices. As a nocturnal bottom hunter it feeds mainly on bottom crustaceans. It is a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bastard cod?
The Bastard cod has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. A single chin barbel; nocturnal rock cod hidden in caves that eats crustaceans.
Where does the Bastard cod live?
The Bastard cod lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Around southern Australia and New Zealand; rocky bottoms and reefs.
How big does the Bastard cod get?
The Bastard cod grows to a maximum of about 63 cm.
Is the Bastard cod dangerous to humans?
No, the Bastard cod is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bastard cod edible?
Yes, the Bastard cod is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudophycis
More from the family Moridae
Want the complete picture on the Bastard cod?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bastard cod is one of 12,519 species in the app.