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Cusk

Cusk

Brosme brosme

640x427-Cusk.jpg

Protected Status

ESA Candidate
Throughout Its Range

Quick Facts

Weight
Up to 20 pounds
Lifespan
Up to 15 years
Length
3 feet
Threats
Overfishing, Bycatch
Region
New England/Mid-Atlantic
See Regulatory Actions

About the Species

Cusk is a deep water species found in rocky, hard bottom areas to a depth of 328 feet. It is a very unique species of fish as it's the only one in its taxonomic genus of Brosme. Cusk is relatively slow-growing and late-maturing, and the maximum age of this species is believed to be greater than 14 years.

Due to concerns over the status of cusk, NOAA Fisheries initiated a status review of this species in March 2007. This status review will be used to determine whether listing of cusk as a threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act is warranted. During this time, cusk is listed as a candidate species under the ESA.

Protected Status

ESA Candidate

  • Throughout Its Range

Appearance

Behavior and Diet

Where They Live

Lifespan & Reproduction

Threats

Scientific Classification

Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Chordata
Class Actinopterygii
Order Ophidiiformes
Family Lotidae
Genus Brosme
Species brosme

What We Do

Conservation & Management

Science

In the Spotlight

Management Overview

Due to concerns over the status of cusk, NOAA Fisheries initiated a status review of this species in March 2007. This status review will be used to determine whether listing of cusk as a threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act is warranted. During this time, cusk is listed as a candidate species under the ESA.

Science Overview