Pollachius pollachius is a species of marine fish in the family Gadidae. FAO uses the English name pollack for this species, whereas in American English it is known as European pollock. Other vernacular names include lythe, and in the Isle of Man, calig.
It is common in the north-eastern parts of the Northern Atlantic, including the Bay of Biscay and North Sea. Adults can grow up to 130 cm (51 in) and weigh up to 12.5 kg (28 lb), although more commonly their maximum length is 75 cm (30 in).
Pollack are fast-growing and relatively short-lived. The maximum reported age is 15 years. They are said to spawn offshore, although their spawning grounds are poorly known; a study of a fjord population in Norway suggested local spawning.
Pollack are benthopelagic, that is, they live near the sea floor. They seem to be relatively sedentary.
