Micromesistius
Micromesistius is a genus of cod-like fish in the family Gadidae. It is a relatively small genus consisting of two species, both of which are important commercially. These fish are found in temperate waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
Common Names
The common names for species of Micromesistius vary depending on the region and language. Some common names include:
- Blue whiting
- Pollock
- Coalfish
- Silver hake
- Gadus
Characteristics
Fish in the genus Micromesistius are characterized by their elongated bodies and small mouths. They have a single dorsal fin with a long base, a single anal fin, and a forked caudal fin. They typically have a silvery-grey coloration, with darker dorsal surfaces. The average size of these fish ranges from 30 to 60 centimeters in length, although some individuals can reach up to 1 meter.
Environments
Micromesistius species inhabit the cool, temperate waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. They are generally found in mid-water depths, from the surface to around 1,000 meters. These fish often form large schools and are important components of the food chain, feeding on smaller fish, crustaceans, and squid.
Species
The genus Micromesistius comprises two species:
- Micromesistius poutassou (Risso, 1810) – European blue whiting
- Micromesistius australis (Norman, 1937) – New Zealand blue whiting
References
For further information and references, please refer to the following sources: