| Pacific Tomcod | |
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Family: |
Gadidae (Codfishes) |
Genus and Species: |
Microgadus proximus |
Description: |
The body of the Pacific tomcod is elongated,
slender and moderately compressed. The head is elongate and there is a small
fleshy projection, a barbel, on the lower jaw. The color is olive green above,
creamy white below, and the fins have dusky tips. Three spineless dorsal fins and the small chin barbel separate the Pacific tomcod from any similar appearing fish, except its cousin, the Pacific cod. The Pacific cod has a barbel as long as the diameter of the eye while the Pacific tomcod has a barbel that is less than one half the diameter of the eye. The Pacific tomcod is a member of the true cod family. It is one of the smaller members of the group and is often confused with the white croaker. Again, the three spineless dorsal fins will distinguish this species from the others. |
Range: |
The Pacific tomcod occurs from Point Sal, California, to Unalaska Island, Alaska, in near surface waters to depths of 720 feet. |
Natural History: |
The diet of the Pacific tomcod includes anchovies, shrimp, and worms. A 10.3 inch female Pacific tomcod contained an estimated 1,200 eggs. |
Fishing Information: |
Pacific tomcod are occasionally taken by recreational anglers in central and northern California. This is usually incidental to fishing for other species of fish. Since these are rather small fish, light line and small baited hooks are the proper gear. Small pieces of cut fish make good bait. |
Other Common Names: |
tomcod, piciata, California tomcod. |
Largest Recorded: |
12 inches; no weight recorded. |
Habitat: |
Shallow Sandy Environment |
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