Atlantic Cod vs Red Sea Bream
Gadus morhua compared with Pagrus major
Taxonomy & Classification
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gadus morhua | Pagrus major |
| Order | Gadiformes | Perciformes |
| Family | Gadidae | Sparidae |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Physical Traits
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 200.0 cm | 100.0 cm |
| Max Weight | 96.0 kg | 9.7 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. | Pale rose-pink to silver-pink overall body with small iridescent blue spots on scales above the lateral line; bright pink-red dorsal fin; characteristic dark smudge at the dorsal fin origin in juveniles. |
Habitat & Environment
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Water Type | Saltwater | Saltwater |
| Depth Range | 0-600m | 10-200m |
| 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 … | Northwestern Pacific from the Yellow Sea and East China Sea to southern Japan and the Philippines. Inhabits coastal rocky reefs, sandy bays, and brackish-edge habitats … |
| Habitat | Neritic, estuaries | Shallow coastal waters and bays of the western Pacific, from Japan to Southeast Asia. Inhabits rocky and sandy substrates at 10-200m depth. Coastal and semi-pelagic; … |
Fishing Information
| Attribute | Atlantic Cod | Red Sea Bream |
|---|---|---|
| Game Fish | Yes | Yes |
| Fight Rating | — | 5/10 |
| 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.
Red Sea Bream
Prized in Japanese cuisine as 'tai'; delicate, sweet white flesh with a clean oceanic taste and low fat. Excellent grilled whole, steamed, or served as sashimi on celebratory occasions.
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.
Red Sea Bream
The red sea bream, known as 'tai' in Japan, is considered the king of fish in Japanese cuisine. It holds deep cultural significance and is traditionally served at celebrations. Its delicate white flesh is prized for sashimi and sushi.