Atlantic Cod

Gadus morhua

Vulnerable Saltwater

Max Length

200.0 cm

Max Weight

96.0 kg

Color

Brown to olive-green or grayish …

Depth Range

0-600m

Family

Gadidae

About

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.

Physical Description

Measurement	Value
Maximum Length	200.0 cm
Maximum Weight	96.0 kg
Depth Range	0-600m

Coloration

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.

Habitat & Distribution

Neritic, estuaries

Water Type

Saltwater

Depth Range

0-600m

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 Flemish Cap banks; severely overfished in the 20th century.

Countries

🇸🇪 Sweden 🇬🇧 United Kingdom 🇺🇸 United States

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Distribution Map

Present Not recorded countries

Conservation Status

Vulnerable IUCN Red List

Atlantic Cod is classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Atlantic Cod faces significant threats to its wild populations.

Edibility & Culinary

Taste

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.

Fishing Information

Game Fish

Yes

Recommended Bait

jigs, clams, cut bait, shrimp

Taxonomy

Order	Gadiformes (Cods)
Family	Gadidae (Cods)
Species	Gadus morhua

Names in Other Languages

Language	Name
French	Morue de l'Atlantique
Spanish	Bacalao del Atlántico

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat 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.

How big does Atlantic Cod get?

Atlantic Cod can grow up to 200.0 cm long and weigh 96.0 kg.

Where is Atlantic Cod found?

Is Atlantic Cod endangered?

The conservation status of Atlantic Cod is Vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List.

What family does Atlantic Cod belong to?

Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) belongs to the family Gadidae (Cods) in the order Gadiformes (Cods).