COMMON MARINE FISHES 



47 



TOMCOD 

 Microgadus proximus 



Relationship: The only species of the codfish family, Gadidae, caught com- 

 mercially on the California coast. The larger codfish of northern seas, the pollack and 

 the haddock, belong to the same family. 



Distinguishing Characters: The three separate dorsal fins and two separate 

 anal fins ; the upper jaw extending beyond the lower ; the barbel under the tip of the 

 lower jaw. Length to about a foot. Color: Olive or brownish above becoming white 

 or silvery on the sides and belly ; fins dusky. 



Distribution: Central California to Alaska. 



Fishing Season: No seasonal trend shown by the extremely small landings. 



Importance: Of no commercial importance, the total landings from 1941 through 

 1946 being under a ton. A minor game fish in Central California ; esteemed as a food 

 fish by some sportsmen. 



Fishing Gear: Drag nets; hook and line. 



Unauthorized Name: Piciata. 



