The saithe or coalfish Pollachius virens is a member of the pollack family. It can reach 1.2 m in length. It has three dorsal and two anal fins. It has a straight lateral line, which is light in colour. The back and sides are usually dusky greenish-brown in colour and the belly is silvery white. The upper and lower jaws are approximately equal in length.Saithe is a highly valued commercial species for human consumption. To maintain sustainable saithe fisheries and create a greater potential yield, the EU and Norway have agreed on a precautionary approach. The stock is now managed by annual TACs (total allowable catch) and a minimum mesh size for several types of fishing gear limits the bycatch of smaller individuals. Unlike the pollack Pollachius pollachius, it has a straight lateral line, which is light in colour.