How to Identify Atlantic Cod

To identify Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Highly variable, ranging from greenish-brown to reddish-brown on the dorsal side, often mottled or spotted, fading to a lighter, often white, ventral side. Coloration can adapt to the substrate.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Three distinct dorsal fins, Two distinct anal fins, Prominent barbel on the chin, typically as long as or longer than the eye diameter, Lateral line is pale and distinctly curved above the pectoral fin

Dorsal fin

Three separate dorsal fins: first dorsal fin with 14-16 rays, second with 18-22 rays, third with 17-20 rays.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is truncate or slightly emarginate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small and located anterior to the pectoral fins (jugular position).

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Dorsal and Anal Fins

   Count the three distinct dorsal fins and two distinct anal fins. This is a key characteristic of the Gadidae family.

2. 2

   Chin Barbel

   Observe the prominent barbel on the chin. In Atlantic Cod, it is typically well-developed and often as long as or longer than the eye diameter.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Note the pale lateral line, which is distinctly curved above the pectoral fin and then runs straight to the caudal fin.

4. 4

   Coloration

   While variable, the mottled or spotted pattern on the dorsal side and the pale lateral line are good indicators.

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