Fin's Fish Guide
The Common mora (Mora moro) is a saltwater fish of the family Moridae that grows up to 80 cm.
Worldwide in cool, deep waters along continental slopes, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The common mora is a robust deep-sea fish of the family Moridae (deep-sea cods) reaching about 80 cm. The stout, grey-brown body has a strong, broad head with large eyes, a terminal mouth and two dorsal fins, the second of which is long. The species lives benthopelagically along continental slopes in cool, deep waters worldwide, including the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, usually from tens to more than two thousand metres. Close to the bottom it hunts fish, squid and crustaceans. Through deep-sea fishing it is sometimes landed as bycatch; the flesh is edible but little sought after. Because of its deep-sea life it is rarely observed up close.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common mora?
The Common mora has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Robust deep-sea cod-like fish with large eyes, a sturdy head and two dorsal fins; lives close to the bottom at great depth.
Where does the Common mora live?
The Common mora lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide in cool, deep waters along continental slopes, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Common mora get?
The Common mora grows to a maximum of about 80 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Common mora dangerous to humans?
No, the Common mora is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common mora edible?
The Common mora is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common mora and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Moridae
Want the complete picture on the Common mora?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common mora is one of 12,519 species in the app.