Codiformes

Codiformes is a historical or proposed order of ray-finned fishes used to group cod-like forms. In some 19th- and early 20th-century classifications, Codiformes included the cod family Gadidae and related taxa such as pollocks and hake-like lineages. In modern ichthyology, Codiformes is largely considered obsolete or is treated as a synonym of Gadiformes, with contemporary schemes placing cod-like taxa within Gadiformes rather than as a separate order.

Characteristics associated with codiforms typically describe marine, demersal fishes with elongated bodies. Many codiforms have a large mouth and, in several species, a chin barbel or barbels that aid bottom-foraging. The dorsal and anal fins are often long, and the scales tend to be small and flexible; the lateral line is well developed. They are predominantly cold- to temperate-water inhabitants and occupy habitats ranging from continental shelves to the deep sea, where they tend to be benthic or near-bottom dwellers.

Ecology and economic importance: Codiform fishes include species that are central to regional fisheries, such as cods, pollocks, and related hake-like groups. They exhibit diverse reproductive strategies, with external fertilization and pelagic egg stages common in many species. Due to overfishing, habitat change, and shifting ocean conditions, many populations are managed to sustain stocks and protect ecosystem balance. While the term Codiformes is rarely used in current classifications, its historical usage reflects the long-standing recognition of cod-like fishes as a distinct, commercially important group.

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