Atlantic Tomcod (Microgadus tomcod)

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Live Atlantic Tomcod (Microgadus tomcod)
Please note this is a live marine specimen.

The Atlantic Tomcod (Microgadus tomcod), also known as winter cod or frostfish, is a small cold-water fish commonly found in the shallow coastal waters of Maine. Closely related to the Atlantic cod, this hardy species is well adapted to winter conditions and is recognized by its olive coloration, pale underside, and slender body. The tomcod plays an important role in coastal ecosystems and serves as both a forage species and a popular choice for bait fishing. Sustainably caught using hand lines, each specimen is carefully handled to maintain freshness and vitality for use in aquariums, classroom study, or bait applications.

Key Facts:
Common name: Atlantic tomcod, winter cod, frostfish
Scientific name: Microgadus tomcod
Locations: Shallow ocean waters
Seasonality: Available all year
Colors: Olive, white belly, beige, tan
Size: 8” – 11”
Collected: Fishing line
Quantity: Sold by the each
Note: This is a live marine specimen. Natural variations in size, color, and appearance from photos should be expected. If you would like any specimen preserved, please send a request to: info@gulfofme.com.

Live Atlantic Tomcod (Microgadus tomcod)
Please note this is a live marine specimen.

The Atlantic Tomcod (Microgadus tomcod), also known as winter cod or frostfish, is a small cold-water fish commonly found in the shallow coastal waters of Maine. Closely related to the Atlantic cod, this hardy species is well adapted to winter conditions and is recognized by its olive coloration, pale underside, and slender body. The tomcod plays an important role in coastal ecosystems and serves as both a forage species and a popular choice for bait fishing. Sustainably caught using hand lines, each specimen is carefully handled to maintain freshness and vitality for use in aquariums, classroom study, or bait applications.

Key Facts:
Common name: Atlantic tomcod, winter cod, frostfish
Scientific name: Microgadus tomcod
Locations: Shallow ocean waters
Seasonality: Available all year
Colors: Olive, white belly, beige, tan
Size: 8” – 11”
Collected: Fishing line
Quantity: Sold by the each
Note: This is a live marine specimen. Natural variations in size, color, and appearance from photos should be expected. If you would like any specimen preserved, please send a request to: info@gulfofme.com.

Atlantic Tomcod (Microgadus tomcod).

Atlantic Tomcod (Microgadus tomcod).

Tidepool Tim says, "These fish have never been recorded dying from cold conditions. They're very tolerant of the near ice-cold waters of the Northern Atlantic, deeming them the 'frostfish.' The mechanism that allows the tomcod to tolerate freezing temperatures is TLSPs (trypsin-like serine protease) in their blood. These proteins have a "sticky" end which binds to the pieces of developing ice crystals. The system prevents the blood from freezing. Amazing! These are commonly found at river mouths and estuaries along the coastline of the Gulf of Maine."