Gadus macrocephalus

Gadus macrocephalus, commonly known as the Pacific cod, is a species of ray-finned fish in the family Gadidae. It is a major species in the Pacific Ocean, particularly in the northern regions, and is a significant part of the commercial fishing industry.

Description

The Pacific cod is a large fish, typically reaching a length of 18 to 36 inches, with a maximum recorded length of 49 inches. It has a pale to grayish green body, with darker spots and a white lateral line. The fish has three dorsal fins and two anal fins.

Distribution and habitat

The Pacific cod is found in the northern Pacific Ocean, from the Yellow Sea to the Bering Strait, south to the Sea of Japan and the Gulf of Alaska. It is a demersal species, living at depths of 30 to 500 meters, though it is most commonly found at depths of 100 to 200 meters. The fish prefers cold water temperatures, between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius.

Diet

The diet of the Pacific cod consists mainly of invertebrates, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms, as well as fish. The fish is a voracious feeder and is known to engage in cannibalism.

Reproduction

Pacific cod are broadcast spawners, releasing their eggs and sperm into the water column. The eggs are pelagic, floating in the water until they hatch. The larvae are also pelagic, drifting with the currents until they are large enough to settle on the seafloor.

Commercial importance

The Pacific cod is a major species in the commercial fishing industry. It is caught primarily by trawling, but also by longlining and gillnetting. The fish is marketed fresh, frozen, smoked, and salted, and is used in products such as fish and chips, fish sticks, and surimi.

Conservation status

The Pacific cod is currently listed as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, overfishing and climate change pose potential threats to the species.