Atlantic Cod Gadus morhua

The Atlantic Cod is native to the northern Atlantic Ocean. Many other species of large fish are also called "cod" including the related (north) Pacific Cod and several not closely related fish, especially from southern oceans.

The Atlantic Cod, generally called just Cod, can reach over a metre in length. It is usually a light yellowy brown colour (white with light brown marbling) with a light, waved line along its flanks and a barbel on its chin.

The lateral line, which bends up to the front dorsal fin, is sensitive to surroundings and the barbel helps to sense prey, especially for younger fish feeding on the seabed. The Atlantic Cod is one of the most important fishes for food in northern Europe.

The colour of the Atlantic Cod can vary considerably, with greenish brown variants in algae and kelp and grey variants in deep waters. (The "Black Cod" is an unrelated fish of the north Pacific, usually called the Sablefish.)

The bend in the lateral line, speckling, slightly protruding upper jaw and obvious chin barbel are key identifying features in variant reddish and charcoal versions.