Atlantic Cod

Gadus morhua

Atlantic cod are found in the waters of the continental shelves and slopes, inshore or offshore depending on the season, on both sides of the North Atlantic. Overfishing is the main cause of decline for the species. Cod fishing in Canadian waters is controlled by the federal Fisheries Act. In 1992, a general moratorium was imposed in Canadian waters in response to observed declines in cod stocks. In some areas there have been signs of recovery and modest catches are now permitted, but in other areas the decline continues.