Morhua

Morhua is the specific epithet used in the binomial name Gadus morhua, most commonly associated with the Atlantic cod. In scientific classification, Gadus morhua is a large demersal fish in the family Gadidae, native to the cold waters of the North Atlantic. The species comprises multiple regional stocks that can differ in growth, maturation, and population dynamics.

It is found in both western and eastern North Atlantic waters, ranging from Labrador and Greenland to the Barents Sea and surrounding Iceland, with coastal and offshore populations in between. Atlantic cod occupy continental shelf habitats on sandy, gravelly, or rocky bottoms, from shallow inshore areas to several hundred meters deep. Juveniles often inhabit sheltered nursery areas, while adults occupy broader depths.

Biology and ecology: cod have a robust body with a greenish-brown dorsal surface and lighter sides. They feed on a diet that includes crustaceans, mollusks, and smaller fish. Reproduction occurs after several years of growth, with spawning typically taking place in winter to spring; eggs are pelagic and drift with currents before hatching into larvae. Lifespans vary by stock, with many individuals living multiple years and some reaching substantial ages in the wild.

Fisheries and conservation: Atlantic cod has long been a cornerstone of North Atlantic fisheries. Intense harvesting led to dramatic stock declines in many areas during the late 20th century, prompting management measures such as catch quotas, seasonal closures, and area protections. Some stocks have shown recovery in recent years, while others remain depleted. Regional stock assessments and rebuilding plans guide ongoing management.