Whiting are a common group of fish often encountered by recreational anglers and seafood consumers, particularly those found in the coastal waters of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean. These fish, part of the cod family, are appreciated for their mild flavor and tender flesh.
Whiting Dentition
Whiting fish possess teeth, although their size and prominence can vary. These teeth are generally described as small and sharp, located on both their upper and lower jaws; for many whiting species, the teeth are quite small and may be difficult to observe without close inspection. Some varieties, such as the European whiting (Merlangius merlangus), are noted to have long, pointed teeth, which contributes to their predatory nature. Beyond the primary jaw teeth, some whiting, like the kingfish species colloquially known as whiting, also possess pharyngeal teeth. These specialized teeth are located in the throat and are used for grinding prey, allowing them to process various food items.
Feeding Habits and Diet
Whiting are carnivorous fish, acting as opportunistic predators. Their dentition is well-suited for capturing and consuming a diverse diet of smaller organisms. As bottom dwellers, whiting primarily feed on small invertebrates found near the seabed, including polychaete worms, small crustaceans like shrimps and amphipods, and mollusks.
As whiting grow, their diet often shifts to include a greater proportion of smaller fish. Adult whiting will actively prey on sand eels, sprats, herring, and even juvenile cod or other whiting. Their mouth structure, often adapted for bottom feeding, allows them to suck up prey and even plow through substrates with their snout to uncover hidden food. This adaptable diet supports their role as important predators in their ecosystems, with larger whiting consuming proportionately larger prey.
Handling Whiting
Handling whiting is generally considered safe for most individuals due to their relatively small teeth. Anglers often find whiting to be easy to unhook, though care should still be exercised, especially if the fish has swallowed the hook deeply. Despite the minimal risk, general precautions for handling any fish remain advisable. Some reports indicate that bites from whiting can, in rare instances, result in minor infections, so practicing good hygiene like washing hands thoroughly after contact is prudent. Overall, the ease of handling whiting contributes to their popularity among recreational fishers, as they present little challenge in terms of physical hazard.