Introduction to Cod Fish
Common Name
Cod Fish
Scientific Name
Gadus morhua (Atlantic Cod)
Family
Gadidae
Fins
Saltwater Fish
Physical Features
Body Shape
Elongated, torpedo-shaped
Color
Olive green to brown with spots; lighter belly
Fins
Three dorsal fins and two anal fins
Tail
Slightly forked
Eyes
Large, adapted for deep-sea vision
Habit and Behavior
Diet
Carnivorous – eats smaller fish, crustaceans, squid, and worms
Feeding Habit
Benthic and midwater predator
Economic Importance
Commercial Use
- Highly valued for meat (cod fillet)
- Used in products like cod liver oil
Fisheries
A major target species for commercial fisheries
Cuisine
Famous in dishes like fish & chips, cod chowder, and bacalao
Interesting Facts
- Cod can live over two decades in the wild
- A female cod can lay up to 5 million eggs per spawning
- Cod liver oil is rich in vitamins A and D
- The “cod war” between the UK and Iceland was over fishing rights!
