Distribution and growth of capelin in the Barents Sea in relation to water temperature in the period 1974 to 1983
Original version
This report is not to be cited without prior reference to the authorsAbstract
The variation in the distribution of the different age-groups of
capelin in the Barents Sea were studied in relation to temperature
variation in the period 1974 to 1983. In addition, growth of the
capelin were compared to the temperature data for the years 1977 to
1983. The data were collected on yearly cruises in September-October. During the period 1976 to 1980 pronounced south- and westward
displacement of all capelin age-groups was observed. The displacement
coincided with decreasing water temperature in the region. It was
found that the older age-groups, 2, 3 and 4 year old fish, inhabited
significantly warmer water masses in the years 1980 to 1983 than
previously. Growth, especi lly for the two year olds, changed
correspondingly, as it was higher in 1980 to 1983 than previously in
the studied period.