Cusk

Cusk

Brosme brosme

Cusk fish illustration

Protected Status

ESA Candidate
Throughout Its Range

Quick Facts

Weight
20 pounds
Lifespan
15 years
Length
3 feet
Threats
Commercial fishing, Bycatch
Location
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

Scientific Classification

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

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.