Male-cod ● [SAFE]

: Successful courtship concludes with a ventral mount , where the male swims beneath the female, grasping her with his pelvic fins to release sperm as she releases eggs. Morphological and Genetic Traits

: Studies describe the cod mating system as a "lek," where males assemble to perform competitive displays. This behavior includes:

Is cod lekking or a promiscuous group spawner? - Nordeide - 2000 male-cod

In biological studies, the ( Gadus morhua ) is a primary subject for understanding complex marine mating systems, reproductive physiology, and sexual dimorphism. Research often focuses on their "lekking" behavior—a system where males compete in a display area to attract females—and the specific physiological adaptations that support this. Reproductive Biology and Behavior

The male cod's role in the Atlantic cod mating system is characterized by high levels of energy expenditure and competitive interaction. : Successful courtship concludes with a ventral mount

: Males use visual cues, such as circling and extending their pelvic fins, during courtship.

: During spawning, males exhibit significantly higher activity levels than females, often dwelling deeper (typically >20 m) where they engage in territorial and agonistic (aggressive) behaviors. - Nordeide - 2000 In biological studies, the

While cod generally lack obvious external differences between sexes, specific secondary sexual characteristics are vital for male reproductive success.