Coral Cod
The coral cod, Helicolenus barathri, is a deep-water fish found in the southwestern Pacific, particularly around New Zealand and Australia. Distinguished by its large eyes and reddish color, this species inhabits the continental shelf and slope. It is important for commercial fisheries due to its high-quality meat.
Length~20 (max 36)
Weight~1 (max 2)
WaterSalt
Water Temp2-7° F
Depth250-800 ft
- Other namesBigeye sea perch, Coral perch, Red gurnard perch, Bigeye ocean perch, Red rock perch
- Length~20 (max 36)
- Weight~1 (max 2)
- WaterSalt
- Water Temp2-7° F
- Depth250-800 ft
Popular lures for Coral Cod
Regulation for Coral Cod
- SeasonAlways open
- Bag limit5
- Vessel limit-
- Trophy limits-
- Max size-
- Min size38 cm
- MeasurementTotal length
- Prohibited methods-
Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Coral cod are found on the continental shelf and slope, preferring depths ranging from moderate to deep waters
- They inhabit benthic zones, typically over rocky or sandy substrates
- Their diet includes smaller fish, crustaceans, and other benthic invertebrates
- Juveniles are usually found in shallower areas, moving deeper as they mature
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- This species is viviparous, with internal fertilization and the female giving birth to live young
- Spawning occurs in deep waters, and larvae are planktonic before settling to the bottom
- Bigeye sea perch exhibit seasonal reproductive cycles, usually breeding in warmer months
- They show site fidelity, often returning to the same breeding grounds annually