BUR'BOT, Lota vulgaris, a fish of the same genus with the ling (q.v.), and of the same family with the cod, haddock, etc., being the only British fresh-water species of that family, gadidce. It is found in the Cam, the Trent, and other rivers of the eastern and midland counties of England, but is one of the most local of British fresh-water fishes. It is found also in various parts of the n. of Europe, and at least as far s. as Switzerland; in Siberia and other parts of Asia, even, it is said, in India. In English rivers, it often reaches 2 or 3 lbs. in weight, but has been taken of 8 lbs. weight; and in some parts of Europe, it is said to reach 10 or 12 lbs. weight. In appearance, the B. very much resem bles the ling, but is rather thicker at the neck, and tapers rather more rapidly, although still of a somewhat elongated form. It has two dorsal fins, the first short, the second very long, and a very long anal fin. It differs from the ling in the form of the tail-fin,
which is oval and slightly pointed; but agrees with it in having a single barbule on the lower jaw. It is of a yellowish-brown color, clouded and spotted with darker brown on the upper parts, the under parts lighter; the scales are small: and the whole body is covered with a mucous secretion. The flesh is white, firm, and of good flavor; "and as the B. is in its nature extremely hardy, few difficulties present themselves in the way of their increase in quantity, while the value of the fish would amply repay the trouble or the cost of the experiment."—Yarrell. The B. is capable of living for a long time out of water. It is commonly taken by trimmers and night-lines, as it feeds principally during the night. Its food consists of small fishes, worms, mollusca, etc. Its liver yields an oil similar to cod-liver oil.