Acoustic abundance estimates of the Icelandic stock of capelin, October 1978 - January 1980.

Abstract

During the period October 1978 - January 1980 several estimates of the size and yearclass composition of the Icelandic capelin stock were obtained by the acoustic method. Surveying was carried out in October 1978, February, JulyAugust, late September and October 1979 and in January in 1980. No estimates are presented for 0-group capelin since the surveys did not cover all its distribution and it has been shown that, compared to older yearclasses, it lS underrepresented in the samples. Similar problems were encountered with I-group capelin, but to a lesser degree. Seasonal variations in stock size estimates are described and discussed. As yet there is lack of comparative data from the summer- early autumn period. The various estimates obtained in October and January-February, are consistent and have been used for management purposes.