Fin's Fish Guide
The Mediterranean codling (Lepidion lepidion) is a saltwater fish of the family Moridae that grows up to 89 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, benthopelagic along continental slopes in cold, deep water.
Description
The Mediterranean codling is a deep-sea fish of the family Moridae (deep-sea cods) reaching about 89 cm. The elongate, brownish body has notably large eyes, a barbel under the lower jaw and a first dorsal fin with an elongated front ray, followed by a long second dorsal fin. The species lives benthopelagically along continental slopes in the cold, deep water of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, usually between one hundred and over two thousand metres. Close to the bottom it hunts crustaceans, worms and small fish. Because of its deep-sea life it is encountered almost only as bycatch and has no commercial value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mediterranean codling?
The Mediterranean codling has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Deep-sea cod relative (Moridae) with large eyes, a chin barbel and a first dorsal fin with an extended front ray.
Where does the Mediterranean codling live?
The Mediterranean codling lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, benthopelagic along continental slopes in cold, deep water.
How big does the Mediterranean codling get?
The Mediterranean codling grows to a maximum of about 89 cm.
Is the Mediterranean codling dangerous to humans?
No, the Mediterranean codling is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mediterranean codling edible?
The Mediterranean codling is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Mediterranean codling 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 Mediterranean codling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mediterranean codling is one of 12,519 species in the app.