CODFISH

Family Gadidae

These have a cylindrical body and a relatively large head. Whilst many of the species hunt in large packs in open waters, the two species represented here are both shy creatures, preferring low light. They are soft rayed fish possessing fleshy barbels of some sort, have two or three dorsal fins and one or two anal fins.

SHORE ROCKLING

Gaidropsarus vulgaris

This species is usually a uniform reddish-brown in colour and has three obvious fleshy appendages, two on the snout and the other under the chin. It grows to 50cm (1ft 8in) and is a solitary living fish. Ecology: It prefers low light and will inhabit deeper caverns and crevices, venturing out at night to feed. Very shy, it will soon scuttle away should it be disturbed.

FORKBEARD

Phycis phycis

This is a very distinctive shy species of the cod family. It has a long barbel under the chin and an even longer one which is split into two, at the base of the underside of the jaw. It has another two protuberances at the underside of the gill flaps. It is coloured a light tan with a creamy underbelly and grows to 25cm (10in). Ecology: This species is an active night hunter, feeding on small crustaceans, worms and fish fry. It is light-sensitive and always keeps well away from strong sunlight, preferring caves and deep crevices.