How Does Ghost die Cod?
Introduction
Ghost (Gaspè Soup) is one of the most popular and widely consumed cod species among the various species of cod found in the Atlantic Ocean. The method of catching and killing ghost cod, also known as white hake, has been a subject of debate among fishermen, scientists, and environmentalists. The question is: How does ghost cod die after being caught?
Physical Characteristics
Before we dive into the methods of catching and killing ghost cod, it’s essential to understand the physical characteristics of this species. Ghost cod (Urophycis chuss) are a type of cod that belongs to the family Merlucciidae. They are found in the Atlantic Ocean, from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico, with the largest population in the North Atlantic. Here are some physical characteristics of ghost cod:
| Characteristics | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 10-30 inches (25-76 cm) |
| Weight | 2-10 pounds (1-4.5 kg) |
| Color | Brownish-gray with white belly |
| Habitat | Coastal waters, continental shelf, and open ocean |
Methods of Catching Ghost Cod
Ghost cod are caught using various methods, including:
- Trawling: Trawlers are large boats that drag a net along the seafloor to catch fish. For ghost cod, trawling is the most popular method, as they are often found near the bottom.
- Longlining: Longlines are long lines with hundreds of baited hooks attached. This method is used for medium-sized schools of ghost cod.
- Pots: Pots, also known as crab traps, are used to catch larger fish, including ghost cod.
How Does Ghost Cod Die?
Ghost cod die during the catching process in various ways, including:
- Dead discard: Many cod are caught, but only a portion are retained, while the rest are discarded at sea, often still alive.
- Bycatch: Ghost cod are often caught accidentally in other fishing gear, such as in nets intended for other species.
- Handling and storage: Poor handling and storage practices can lead to mortality, as cod are often stored in small spaces with limited water flow and oxygen levels.
- Processing: Few cod are processed immediately after capture, leading to delays, which can be lethal due to lack of oxygen and water flow.
Impact on the Species
The methods of catching and killing ghost cod have significant impacts on the species and the ecosystem:
- Decreased populations: Overfishing and discarding of cod can lead to decreased populations and reduced sustainability.
- Bycatch: Accidental catching of non-target species, including protected fish, can harm the ecosystem.
- Ecosystem disruption: Changes in the food chain can occur when key species, like ghost cod, are affected by overfishing.
- Fishing industry impacts: Overfishing and poor management can lead to reduction of fishing quotas, jobs, and local economies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ghost cod die from a variety of causes, including dead discard, bycatch, handling and storage issues, and processing delays. It is essential to promote sustainable fishing practices, such as:
- Catch-and-release fishing
- Reduction of bycatch
- Proper handling and storage
- Regulated catch limits
- Closed areas for fishing
By understanding the methods of catching and killing ghost cod, we can work towards protecting this important species and preserving the health of our oceans. Join the movement towards sustainable fishing practices and help save the ghost cod.