Blue ling

Blauleng

Blue ling (Molva dypterygia) is a species of fish in the family Lotidae. It is found in the North Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the waters around Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and the British Isles. Blue ling is a demersal species, meaning it lives and feeds on or near the bottom of the sea.

Description

Blue ling can grow to a length of about 155 cm and can weigh up to 30 kg. It has a long, slender body with a bluish-grey coloration on the back and sides, and a paler belly. The fish has a distinctive barbel on its chin, which it uses to detect prey on the ocean floor.

Habitat

Blue ling is typically found at depths ranging from 150 to 1,000 meters. It prefers cold, deep waters and is often associated with rocky substrates and continental slopes. The species is known to inhabit areas with strong currents and is often found in regions with complex underwater topography.

Diet

The diet of blue ling consists mainly of other fish, such as cod, haddock, and whiting, as well as various invertebrates, including crustaceans and cephalopods. It is an opportunistic feeder, preying on whatever is available in its environment.

Reproduction

Blue ling reaches sexual maturity at around 5 to 7 years of age. Spawning typically occurs between March and May. Females release their eggs into the water column, where they are fertilized by the males. The eggs are pelagic, meaning they float in the open water until they hatch into larvae.

Fisheries and Conservation

Blue ling is commercially fished, primarily by trawlers and longliners. It is valued for its firm, white flesh and is often sold fresh or frozen. However, overfishing has led to concerns about the sustainability of blue ling populations. Various management measures, including catch limits and closed seasons, have been implemented to help protect the species.

Related Pages

• Lotidae
• North Atlantic Ocean
• Iceland
• Faroe Islands
• British Isles
• Cod
• Haddock
• Whiting
• Crustaceans
• Cephalopods