Lingcod

Lingcod is a predatory marine fish native to the Pacific coast of North America.

Lingcod is a predatory marine fish native to the Pacific coast of North America. Despite its name, it is not a true cod; it belongs to the greenling family Hexagrammidae and is known scientifically as Ophiodon elongatus.

Taxonomy

Lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus) belongs to the greenling family Hexagrammidae and is not related to true cods despite its common name. It is the only extant species in the genus Ophiodon according to widely used references.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs along the Pacific coast of North America from Alaska south to Baja California, with major concentrations near British Columbia and Washington, especially near Vancouver Island, the Strait of Georgia, Hecate Strait, and Queen Charlotte Sound. It usually lives near rocky reefs and bottom habitat, often in shallow to moderate depths.

Description and biology

Lingcod have a large head and mouth with 18 sharp teeth, and variable coloration that helps them blend into rocky surroundings. They are fast-growing ambush predators. Females are typically larger than males, and the species can reach about 5 feet in length and over 80 pounds, with a lifespan of up to 20 years or more.

Fisheries and human use

Lingcod are sought after for sport and food and are taken in commercial, recreational, and subsistence fisheries. Their flesh is white and mild-flavoured, which has contributed to their popularity as a food fish. The species is especially relevant to British Columbia, where it is a recognized species in Canadian Pacific fisheries and habitat profiles.