Haddock
From Freepedia
| Haddock | ||||||||||||||
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| Melanogrammus aeglefinus (Linnaeus, 1758) |
Haddock is a sea fish, also known as offshore hake, distributed on both sides of the North Atlantic. This species of fish is most commonly found at depths of 40 to 133 m, but has a range as deep as 300 m. They thrive in temperatures of 2° to 10°C (36° to 50°F). Their habitat use is age-dependent, with juveniles preferring shallower waters and larger adults associated with deeper water. Generally, adult haddock do not engage in long migratory behavior as do the younger fish, but seasonal movements have been known to occur across all ages. Haddock feed primarily on small invertebrates, although larger members of the species may occasionally consume fish.
Growth rates of haddock have changed significantly over the past 30 to 40 years. Presently, growth is more rapid, with haddock reaching their adult size much earlier than previously noted. However, the degree to which these younger fish contribute to reproductive success of the population is unknown. Spawning occurs between January and June, peaking during late March and early April. The most important spawning grounds are in the waters off middle Norway near southwest Iceland. An average-sized female produces approximately 850,000 eggs, and larger females are capable of producing up to 3 million eggs each year.
Reaching sizes up to 110 cm, haddock is fished year round. Some of the methods used are Danish seine nets, trawlers, long lines, and simple fishing nets. It is sold fresh, frozen, dried, smoked, and to a small extent canned. The main nutritional value of haddock is that it is an excellent source of protein. It also contains plenty of vitamin B12, pyridoxine, and selenium. The fish also contains a healthy balance of sodium and potassium.
