Description: The cod is a relatively large and stout bodied fish with a large head and long chin barbel. It has three dorsal fins and two anal fins which are all rounded in outline. The colour can vary from greenish-grey with orange-brown or grey mottling. It has a conspicuous white lateral line. Adult fish can grow to approximately 1.7m although most are less than 1.2m.

Habitat: The cod occurs in a wide variety of habitats from the shore down to depths of 600m. Divers usually encounter cod near rocky areas or around wrecks. They feed on a range of crustaceans, worms, brittle-stars and small fish.

Distribution: This species is widespread all around the coasts of Britain and Ireland.

Similar Species: The large head, stout body, mottled coloration and distinctive white lateral line distinguish the cod from other members of the cod family.

Key Identification Features:

• Stout bodied member of the cod family
• Long chin barbel
• Mottled coloration
• Conspicuous white lateral line
• Three dorsal and two anal fins

Distribution Map from NBN: Gadus morhua at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Gadus morhua at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

GBIF data for Gadus morhua

WoRMS: Gadus morhua at World Register of Marine Species. Accepted name: Gadus morhua Linnaeus, 1758. AphiaID: 126436.

Classification: Biota; Animalia; Chordata; Vertebrata; Gnathostomata; Osteichthyes; Actinopterygii; Actinopteri; Teleostei; Gadiformes; Gadidae; Gadus