• Norwegian: torskefisker

Characteristics:

The pectoral (breast) fin is positioned behind the ventral fin on all gadoids. Some species are adapted to a life close to the bottom. They may use a sensitive beard to sniff around in the gravel. The center of gravity is sometimes positioned close to the head, in order to tilt the nose down without effort. Others have the center of gravity further back and a body shape designed for speed and a pelagic life.

Taxonomy:

Of the ten families of gadoids, two families are dominating the shallow waters of Norway:

  • Gadidae includes familiar and commercial important species like cod and saithe.
  • Lotidae includes well known and abundant species like ling and torsk.