Fin's Fish Guide
The Black codling (Physiculus dalwigki) is a saltwater fish of the family Moridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Eastern Atlantic, including around the Macaronesian islands, on rocky and soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope area.
Description
The black codling is a dark cod-like deep-water fish of the family Moridae (deep-sea cods) reaching about 30 cm. The brownish-black body has a small chin barbel with which the fish probes the bottom and, as in many morids, a light organ on the belly with luminous bacteria. There are two dorsal fins on the back, the second long and low, opposite a long anal fin. The species lives on rocky and soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope in the eastern Atlantic, including around the Macaronesian islands. Close to the bottom it searches for small crustaceans, worms and small fish. Because of its deep lifestyle it is only rarely seen and has no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black codling?
The Black codling has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark cod-like deep-water fish with a chin barbel, a light organ on the belly and a long second dorsal and anal fin.
Where does the Black codling live?
The Black codling lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic, including around the Macaronesian islands, on rocky and soft bottoms of the deeper continental slope area.
How big does the Black codling get?
The Black codling grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Black codling dangerous to humans?
No, the Black codling is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black codling edible?
The Black codling is not usually eaten.
Easily confused with
These species look like the Black codling 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 Physiculus
More from the family Moridae
Want the complete picture on the Black codling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black codling is one of 12,519 species in the app.