Identity
The names Arctic Cod and Polar Cod have been used for more than one fish. This page follows Boreogadus saida, not Arctogadus glacialis. Checking the scientific name prevents the biology of those species from being combined.
Size and Weight
A published ecological review reports lengths reaching 40 cm and weights around 430 g, about 15.7 inches and 15.2 ounces. These upper-size figures are not a typical fish. The review does not establish a certified angling record.
Habitat and Natural Food
Arctic Cod uses cold marine habitats and can be associated with sea ice. Diet studies show variation with body size, region and year. Small crustaceans are important, and the species passes energy from small prey to larger predators.
Ecological Importance
It provides food for marine mammals, seabirds and other fishes. Research on warming and overwinter survival reflects the importance of retaining that food-web connection. Its marine ecology does not support describing it as a normal resident of inland freshwater lakes.
Small Fish, Many Predators
Arctic Cod converts small prey into food accessible to much larger animals. That role makes changes in its abundance relevant beyond the fish itself. Its importance is measured by its place in the ecosystem, rather than by the size of an individual catch.
All Lakes With Arctic Cod
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Arctic Cod records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.