Morid

Morid is a common name for fish in the family Moridae, a group of cod-like fishes within the order Gadiformes. Morids occur in oceans worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea, with many species inhabiting continental shelf and slope habitats. They are generally demersal, bottom-dwelling fishes, and species size ranges from small to moderately large.

The Moridae family comprises multiple genera, including Mora and Physiculus, and contains a number of species such as Mora moro, commonly known as the common mora. Morids resemble true cods in general body shape but are distinguished by anatomical features that separate them from other codlike fishes.

Ecology and biology: Morids feed on a variety of invertebrates and small fishes and occupy mid-to lower-trophic levels in their ecosystems. Reproduction varies by species, but many morids lay demersal eggs that develop on or near the substrate.

Fisheries and human use: Some morid species are targeted by commercial fisheries, particularly in regions with deep-water trawl and longline fleets. They may be sold under the name morid cod or by their species names and are used for fresh, frozen, or processed seafood products in various markets. As with other deep-sea fishes, local stocks are subject to management and monitoring.

See also: Moridae, Gadiformes.