freshwater, benthic, gadiform
Burbot larva
Lota lota
In the larval stage, they have a slender, elongated body with large eyes relative to the head. They exhibit distinct rows of melanophores (dark spots) along the dorsal and ventral margins of the body. Adult specimens possess a single barbel on the chin and two dorsal fins, the second being very long.
- Habitat
- Larvae are often found in shallow, near-shore areas of c…
- Size & weight
- Larvae are several millimeters at hatching.…
- Diet
- Larvae are planktivorous, feeding on small crustaceans l…
Identified More freshwater, benthic, gadiform →
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Physical characteristics
In the larval stage, they have a slender, elongated body with large eyes relative to the head. They exhibit distinct rows of melanophores (dark spots) along the dorsal and ventral margins of the body. Adult specimens possess a single barbel on the chin and two dorsal fins, the second being very long.
Habitat & distribution
Larvae are often found in shallow, near-shore areas of cold freshwater lakes and large rivers across the Holarctic (North America, Europe, and Asia). Adults move to deeper, colder benthic zones.
Behavior
Larvae are often pelagic initially before settling to the bottom. Adults are primarily nocturnal, remaining relatively inactive during the day and becoming vigorous hunters at night, even under ice.
Diet
Larvae are planktivorous, feeding on small crustaceans like copepods and cladocerans. Adults are opportunistic carnivores, primarily piscivorous, feeding on fish such as sculpins and perch.
Reproduction
One of the few freshwater fish to spawn in mid-winter under ice. They are broadcast spawners, often forming 'spawning balls' where many individuals twist together to release eggs and milt in shallow water or over shoals.
Ecological role
Burbot serve as significant predators in benthic ecosystems. Larvae feed on zooplankton, while adults are apex predators of fish and invertebrates, regulating smaller fish populations.
Similar species
Larval burbot can be confused with larval sculpins or perch, but the specific pattern of double-rowed melanophores and their elongated shape are diagnostic. Adults resemble catfish but are actually the only freshwater member of the cod family.
Identification tips
Look for a very long second dorsal and anal fin, a single prominent chin barbel, and small, embedded scales that give the fish a slimy feel. Larvae are identified by the two distinct lines of dark pigment dots along the tail.
Interesting facts
The Burbot is the only species in the genus Lota and the only member of the cod family (Gadidae) that lives exclusively in freshwater. They are sometimes called 'lawyers' or 'lingcod' despite not being related to true lingcod.