gadids

Gadids, or codfishes, are a family of marine ray-finned fishes in the order Gadiformes. The family Gadidae includes cod, haddock, hake, pollock, and related species. Gadids are typically demersal, living near the seabed in cold and temperate waters of the Northern Hemisphere, with some species extending into the Southern Ocean. They tend to have elongated bodies and are predatory, feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates. Notable sensory adaptations include the chin barbel in many species, used to detect prey along the seabed.

Ecology and distribution: Gadids occur in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, with some species widespread across seas. The largest commercial species include the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), whiting (Merlangius merlangus), and various pollocks (Pollachius and related genera). Hakes (Merluccius spp.) are another major group. Gadids are typically schooling fish and can be found at various depths, from near the coast to deeper shelf areas. They are important predators and prey within marine ecosystems, and several species undertake seasonal migrations.

Fisheries and conservation: Many gadid stocks have been overfished in past decades, leading to management measures such as catch limits, seasonal closures, and area protections. Stock status varies by region and species; some populations have recovered under management, while others remain at risk. As a group, gadids are among the most economically and culturally important fishes in many regions.