Gadus morhua (Atlantic Cod)
Atlantic cod is fished extensively in UK waters. Extensive over fishing has resulted in this once prolific species becoming commercially rare.
Additional information
FishBase Fact File
OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic
Scottish Biodiversity List: Species of Principal Conservation Importance in Scotland
The cod is a relatively large and stout bodied fish with a large head and long chin barbel. The three dorsal fins and two anal fins are all rounded in outline. The colour can vary from greenish-grey with orange-brown or grey mottling with a conspicuous white lateral line.
Atlantic cod are found all around the coasts of Britain and Ireland, as far south as the Bay of Biscay and to the north Barents Sea.