per 100 grams
Carbohydrates 0 g
0%
Proteins 24.4 g
24.4%
Fats 0.8 g
0.8%
Water 73.9 g
73.9%
Fiber 0 ug
Ash 1.8 grams

Ling

111 Calories per 100g

and why it is important

A ling (or lingcod, Ophiodon elongates) is an important fish species found off the western coast of North America, specifically off of Washington, Alaska and British Columbia. The ling is related to the rockfish and belongs to the greenling family. Its scientific name Ophiodon elongata references the greenlings’ name and tells us that the lingcod has a long body in comparison to some of its siblings.

The look of a ling varies depending on which maturity stage they are in. Juvenile lings have five to six dorsal fins, usually with a dark stripe running down their back, and a lighter white stomach. As they mature, this stripe disappears, their trunk and head become wider, and they develop a chin barbell. Lings typically grow to around 3 feet, with some reaching up to 5 feet, and weigh up to 50 pounds, making them one of the largest fish species in inshore waters.

Lings are carnivorous and opportunistic hunters, eating a variety of smaller fish and invertebrates, including squid, shrimp and crabs, as well as carrion when it is available. They are thought to be one of the longest-living species of fish, with a lifespan of upwards of 84 years in some instances. This means that they can reach a pretty old age before they produce young, which makes their population numbers hard to track, though there is evidence of decline.

Their importance to the region is not just a matter of population control, however — lings have a significant role in balancing the oceanic ecosystem. Lings serve as a key species on the lower trophic levels, feasting on their prey and keeping the populations of their prey in check. They also consume large amounts of smaller fish, which helps control the overall fish populations and keeps those smaller fish from outcompeting and overrunning the ecosystem. Their presence is also beneficial to the higher trophic level species since they provide food for bigger fish and mammals alike.

Another important role of lings is as a food source for humans. Ling cod have been a part of the broader Pacific Northwest diet for centuries. Today, ling cod is popular among a variety of seafood connoisseurs because of its mild and flaky flesh. In addition to being eaten in fresh and cooked forms, ling cod is also ground and used to make popular fish products like fish cakes and fish sticks.

The health benefits of lings cannot be overlooked either. While they are high in fat, the fats are primarily of the polyunsaturated variety, and, as such, contain heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. Moreover, lings are a good source of selenium which is known to reduce inflammation and contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and magnesium.

The importance of lings to the Pacific Northwest ecosystem and economy cannot be understated. Their unique physical characteristics, dietary preferences, and nutrient-rich flesh make them major players in the balance of their marine environment, as well as popular staples in many local diets. Through sound fishing management and protection, we can ensure that the lings of the Pacific Northwest will survive and reap their ecological and economic benefits for generations to come.