Lingar

Lingar is the plural form of ling in Swedish, used to refer to large, demersal fishes of the cod family that occur in northern waters. The term commonly denotes the common ling (Molva molva) and related species such as the blue ling (Molva dypterygia). In Swedish usage, lingar are discussed within the context of fisheries, cuisine, and marine biology.

Taxonomy and description: Ling belongs to the family Gadidae and the genus Molva. They have elongated bodies with a relatively large head and two dorsal fins. Coloration tends to be brownish to gray with lighter undersides. Adult ling can reach substantial lengths, typically on the order of one to two meters.

Distribution and habitat: Ling inhabit cold northern Atlantic waters and adjacent seas, including areas around Iceland and the British Isles and extending into parts of western Europe. They are bottom-dwellers (demersal) that favor rocky and muddy substrates at depths from roughly 30 to several hundred meters, depending on the life stage.

Ecology and life cycle: Ling are carnivorous predators, feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates. Growth and maturity occur over multiple years, with spawning occurring in winter to early spring offshore. Eggs are released into surface currents and hatch into pelagic larvae before the young migrate to deeper or shallower zones as they mature.

Fisheries and culinary use: Ling is commercially fished in various European and North Atlantic regions. The flesh is white, firm, and mild in flavor, making ling suitable for fillets, stews, and smoking. Fisheries often employ quotas and size limits to manage stocks and promote sustainability.