Atlantic Cod Gadus morhua
The Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) was once the defining species of the North Sea, supporting one of Britain’s most important commercial fisheries and a strong tradition of inshore fishing along the Suffolk coast. Severe overfishing throughout the twentieth century led to dramatic population collapses, and the species is now listed as vulnerable globally. Cod remain present in the North Sea and are still encountered by anglers off the Suffolk coast – particularly in winter, when fish move inshore – but at a fraction of their former abundance. Recovery depends on sustained fisheries management, reduced bycatch, and improvements to seabed habitats. Image: © Joachim S. Müller, iNaturalist.
Find out more: iNaturalist, Marine Life Information Centre
Suffolk’s Priority Marine Life Species
Key
Listed as a conservation priority in Suffolk’s Biodiversity Action Plan.
Closely associated with Suffolk’s landscape and natural identity.
Identified as a key priority for recovery under Suffolk’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
Has a Species of the Month article attached.
