Atlantic Cod vs Mahi-mahi
Gadus morhua compared with Coryphaena hippurus
Taxonomy & Classification
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gadus morhua | Coryphaena hippurus |
| Order | Gadiformes | Carangiformes |
| Family | Gadidae | Coryphaenidae |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Physical Traits
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 200.0 cm | 210.0 cm |
| Max Weight | 96.0 kg | 40.0 kg |
| Color | Brown to olive-green or grayish back densely speckled with small pale spots; pale lateral line clearly visible; belly white to cream; three distinct dorsal fins and two anal fins are yellowish-tan. | Dazzling iridescent blue-green and gold flanks; males have a blunt squared-off head; flanks flicker golden-yellow to electric blue when alive, fading to dull gray-green at death. |
Habitat & Environment
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Water Type | Saltwater | Saltwater |
| Depth Range | 0-600m | 0-85m |
| Geographic Range | North Atlantic from the Labrador Sea and Grand Banks of Newfoundland east to Iceland, Norway, and the Barents Sea. Historically abundant on the Georges and … | Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceanic waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Highly pelagic; gathers around floating sargassum mats, current lines, and thermocline … |
| Habitat | Neritic, estuaries | Neritic, pelagic, coral reefs |
Fishing Information
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Mahi-mahi |
|---|---|---|
| Game Fish | Yes | Yes |
| Fight Rating | — | 7/10 |
| World Record | — | — |
| Mercury Level | — | — |
Cuisine & Edibility
Atlantic Cod
Iconic mild white flesh, low fat, and a flaky texture; the backbone of fish-and-chips and salt cod traditions worldwide. Currently Vulnerable; sustainable sourcing is strongly recommended.
Mahi-mahi
Firm, slightly sweet flesh with large, moist flakes and low fat. Excellent grilled, blackened Cajun-style, or in tacos; one of the most popular sport fish for the table.
Species Overview
Atlantic Cod
The Atlantic cod is one of the most historically important commercial fish species. Its mild, flaky white flesh has been a staple food in Europe for centuries. Overfishing caused the collapse of the Grand Banks fishery in 1992.
Mahi-mahi
The mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, is among the most colorful pelagic fish in the ocean. Its iridescent blue, green, and gold body fades rapidly after death. It is a fast-growing species, rarely living beyond five years.