Atlantic cod

Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua)

The Atlantic cod (scientific name : Gadus morhua) is a fish. It is valued by humans as a food.

Description

The fish can grow to 2 meters in length, and weigh up to 96 kg (212 lbs). It can live for 25 years. It is colored brown to green. It has spots on the dorsal side. A horizontal line runs from the head to the tail. It has small, smooth scales.

Range and habitat

The Atlantic cod lives on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, as far north as the Arctic Ocean and as far south as North Carolina and Spain. Its habitat ranges from the shoreline down to the continental shelf.

Endangered species

The Atlantic cod has always been in great demand as a food fish. Overfishing has seriously depleted some stocks along the North American coast. Scientists question whether these stocks will recover.

References

MarineBio: Atlantic cod

Endangered Species Portal — All articles about endangered species

Animals Portal — All articles about animals

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