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Another fish related to burbot, the polar cod, is a member of the cod family. Pollock, however, is not found in freshwater, so it's not possible to catch it like burbot on fishing trips along the Yenisei River or other bodies of water in the Putorana Plateau. This species is primarily found in the Pacific Ocean and its surrounding regions.
However, pollock is particularly valuable and was considered the staple fish of the Soviet Union for good reason. It was very affordable, and its excellent taste delighted many gourmets. Therefore, pollock was offered everywhere in those days, whether in a canteen or an upscale restaurant.
Features of pollock
When considering the characteristics and traits of this species, it's worth noting that it's a pelagic fish. It prefers cold waters and most often inhabits the upper and middle layers. Only during the day does this codfish venture to depths of 300-500 meters, returning in the evening.
Pollock is not a bottom-dwelling fish, so catching it is relatively easy. Furthermore, they are often found near shorelines, especially during spawning season. Their mating season occurs in shallow waters, and their life cycle lasts approximately 15 years.
What does this fish look like?
Pollock has an attractive appearance:
· The size of individuals can reach 90 cm.
· The weight of a large fish grows up to 5 kg.
The body is narrow, long, and slightly elongated. It is covered with silver scales, tapering from the head to the back, right down to the tail.
· On the back of the pollock, there are three dorsal fins. The first is small, and the second is larger and slightly raised.
The lower fins have a unique feature: the pelvic ones are located in front of the pectoral ones.
· As in other cods, there are barbels located under the forward-protruding lower jaw.
· The sides of the fish have a swampy, greenish color.
· The back and body are covered with speckles.
The individual's head is large. It is disproportionate to the body and contains rather large eyes.
This fish isn't considered bony, which is why pollock has earned such popularity. These individuals have a non-spiny spine, making them easy to eat.
Is pollock a predator or a peaceful species?
Since this codfish is a pelagic species, it is a predatory fish. Pollock feed on living organisms, which speaks to their bloodthirstiness. Surviving in cold water is challenging, which forces otherwise harmless individuals to eat their own kind. It's worth noting that this predator preys only on fry; large and growing individuals are spared. Pollock enjoys eating eggs, regardless of the species.
Habitat
This species is found in many bodies of water in Russia and China. It can even be caught in Moscow and the Moscow region. Pollock is also found in Kamchatka, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, and the Murmansk, Kaluga, and Ryazan regions.
Conclusion
Pollock, a favorite fish of the Soviet Union, remains highly sought after and popular. Delicious dishes and delicacies are prepared from it. Although it is not considered a noble species like salmon or sturgeon, there is always a demand for pollock.
It's easy to catch. Its excellent taste and affordable price make this codfish a common sight in Russian cuisine. Pollock can replace many other fish products due to its low calorie content and numerous beneficial properties.
