Microgadus tomcod facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Microgadus tomcod |
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The Microgadus tomcod, often called frostfish, Atlantic tomcod, or winter cod, is a type of cod fish. These fish live in the coastal waters of North America. You can find them from the Gulf of St. Lawrence and St. Lawrence River in Canada, down to Virginia in the United States.
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About the Atlantic Tomcod
The Atlantic tomcod is a small fish that is part of the cod family. It has several common names, like frostfish and winter cod. These names often come from when and where they are caught.
Where They Live
Atlantic tomcod prefer cooler waters. They are found along the coastlines and in some rivers. Their home stretches from the icy waters near Newfoundland all the way to the warmer waters off Virginia.
Fishing Season
People enjoy fishing for Atlantic tomcod, especially in winter. The fishing season changes depending on the location. For example, in the Sainte-Anne River in Quebec, Canada, the season is from late December to mid-February.
The town of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pérade is famous for its winter fishing. A special fishing village is built right on the frozen river ice. Many fishermen visit this town to catch tomcod.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Atlantic tomcod prepare to lay their eggs in the fall. Their hormone levels increase in September, reaching their highest in November. The fish then lay their eggs, a process called spawning, from late December to January. This happens during the coldest parts of winter.
Amazing Adaptations
Atlantic tomcod are very tough fish. In the Hudson River, some tomcod developed a special ability. They became more resistant to certain harmful chemicals called PCBs.
Scientists studied these fish and found a genetic change that helped them resist the chemicals. This special gene was found in almost all tomcod in the Hudson River. In other waters, fewer than 10 percent of tomcod had this gene. This shows how animals can adapt to their environment.
Size of the Tomcod
The Atlantic tomcod is a relatively small fish. It can grow up to about 38.1 cm (15.0 in) long.
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