Gadiformes
The Gadiformes, commonly known as cods, are an order of ray-finned fish, most of which are marine. They are found in all oceans of the world, from tropical to polar waters. This order is highly diverse, encompassing a wide range of species, and it is one of the most important commercially harvested fish groups. Gadiformes are often referred to as “true cods” to distinguish them from other cod-like fish such as the rattails, which belong to the order Macrouriformes.
Characteristics
Gadiformes have a distinctive, streamlined body shape, typically with a slightly compressed body and a pointed snout. They possess three dorsal fins, two anal fins, and a barbel (a whisker-like sensory appendage) on their chin. Their scales are small and cycloid (smooth and rounded). Gadiformes exhibit a wide range of sizes, from the small, deep-sea species like the cusk-eels, which can be less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) long, to the massive Atlantic cod, which can grow to over 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length. They are generally carnivorous, feeding on a variety of invertebrates and fish.
Environments
Gadiformes occupy a wide range of habitats, including coastal waters, deep-sea environments, and the open ocean. Some species, like the Atlantic cod, are demersal, meaning they live on or near the bottom, while others, like the grenadiers, are pelagic, dwelling in the open water column. Many Gadiformes species are migratory, moving between different areas depending on the season or the availability of food.
Classification
The order Gadiformes is divided into several families, including:
- Gadidae (cods, haddocks, whiting, etc.)
- Lotidae (eelpouts)
- Merlucciidae (hake)
- Moridae (moras)
- Phycidae (cusk-eels)
- Macrouridae (rattails)
References
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