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Lingcod

(U.S., Canada, Wild-caught)

Rating:
The northern lingcod population has rebounded dramatically over the last few years after previous overfishing.

Market Names:
Blue Cod, Bluefish, Buffalo Cod, Green Cod, White Cod

Consumer Notes:
Common market names include: blue cod, bluefish, buffalo cod, green cod and white cod.

Health Alert:
Environmental Defense Fund has issued a health advisory for lingcod due to elevated levels of mercury.

Summary:
Lingcod is unique to the West Coast of North America. The northern population of lingcod has rebounded dramatically over the last few years. Although the southern population has stabilized, it hasn't fully recovered.

Considered a groundfish, most lingcod is still caught using bottom trawling, a fishing method that results in considerable habitat damage. As a result, lingcod is a "Good Alternative" until measures are taken to minimize damage from trawling gear along the rocky habitats on the seafloor.

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