Gadus morhua, commonly known as the Atlantic cod, is a demersal fish found in the colder waters and deeper sea regions of the North Atlantic. It is easily recognized by its three dorsal fins, two anal fins, and a distinctive barbel on its chin. The species is known for its voracious appetite and plays a critical role in marine ecosystems as both predator and prey.

Gadus morhua, commonly known as the Atlantic cod, is native to the North Atlantic Ocean. Its geographical distribution extends across both sides of the North Atlantic, including the waters around Greenland, Iceland, the Barents Sea, and the North Sea. It is also found along the eastern coast of North America, from Labrador to Cape Hatteras, and in the waters around the British Isles and the Norwegian coast.

Atlantic cod typically inhabit cold, temperate marine environments. They are demersal, preferring to live near the seafloor, usually at depths ranging from 20 to 200 meters, but they can be found as deep as 600 meters. The species thrives in waters with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F) and are often associated with substrates such as sand, gravel, or rocky bottoms.

Gadus morhua plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem as both a predator and prey. It feeds on a variety of organisms including smaller fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. As a commercially important species, Atlantic cod has significant ecological and economic impacts, influencing the structure of marine communities and human fishing practices. Regional adaptations may occur, with some populations exhibiting variations in size, growth rates, and reproductive strategies based on local environmental conditions.