Atlantic Cod

Gadus morhua

Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) is a cold-water groundfish of the North Atlantic, recognized by its chin barbel, mottled olive-brown body, three dorsal fins, and pale lateral line. It lives near the seafloor on continental shelves, feeding on fish, crustaceans, worms, and other benthic prey. Cod can grow large and long-lived where fishing pressure is low, but many commercial stocks were reduced sharply after centuries of harvest.

Atlantic cod stewardship sits in the world of fisheries science. Quotas, size limits, seasonal closures, gear rules, and stock assessments are used to rebuild or maintain populations, with results varying by region. Buyers and processors often pay attention to catch area and sustainability certification because one cod label can represent very different stock conditions. Cod have also been studied for aquaculture, though farming has not replaced wild fisheries on a broad scale. Public aquariums that display cod need cold, well-oxygenated saltwater and careful transport to avoid stress.