Pollachius virens (Linnaeus, 1758)
Saith
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The saith, Pollachius virens has a wide distribution from the Bay of Biscay north to Iceland, Spitzbergen and the Barents Sea. They are usually to be found in small shoals in mid water. Spawning takes place between January and May in water from 100 to 200 m (Whitehead et al., 1986a).
The species is distinguished from other Pollachius by the presence of a straight lateral line over the whole body. The lower jaw projects above the upper one, and there are sensory canals with large pores on the head. Pollachius virens has a notched caudal fin, small eyes, and is greenish brown to olive with lighter shades laterally and a silvery grey belly. They grow to 120 cm but are usually only up to 90 cm (Whitehead et al., 1989).
During the present survey, saith were observed swimming over the seabed near the Sula reef and Kosterfjord reef. They were observed swimming over the reef in the Trondheim area. In general they appeared to be disturbed by the presence of the camera either being attracted by the light or swimming away.
Saith, a member of the cod family, are of high commercial importance.
There is more information available for this species in FishBase.
Prepared by: Ecological Consultancy Services Ltd www.ecoserve.ie