Atlantic Tomcod
Scientific Name: Microgadus tomcod
Common Name: frost fish
The Atlantic tomcod is a popular winter and early spring species often caught incidentally in the recreational smelt fishery in Great Bay. Most weigh less than 1 pound, measure less than 12 inches, and primarily occur in estuaries and tidal rivers. Juvenile tomcod are attracted to the shallow eelgrass beds of Great Bay, which are prime nursery grounds for this species. The tomcod is distinguishable from cod by its elongate pelvic rays, rounded tail and dark mottling on its back and sides.
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