The whiting (Merlangius merlangus) is a fast-growing, cod-like fish commonly found in the North-east Atlantic and around the coasts of the United Kingdom. Once considered a low-value “poor man’s fish”, whiting has become increasingly important both commercially and recreationally as stocks of other species have declined.
Typically measuring 25–30cm in length (though capable of reaching up to 70cm), whiting have an elongated body, a pointed snout and a small dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin. Their colouring is blue-green along the back, fading to a silvery-white belly, with a subtle brown lateral line.
A bentho-pelagic species (demersal) , whiting are usually found at depths of 30–100 metres over sand, gravel, mud and sometimes rocky seabeds. They feed on bottom-dwelling invertebrates such as shrimps, crabs and worms, as well as small fish.
Whiting is recognised as a UK Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Species and is listed as a Priority Marine Feature in Scotland, reflecting its ecological and conservation importance in our seas.
