Results of Norwegian and Russian investigations of shrimp (Pandalus borealis) in the Barents Sea and Svalbard area in 1992

Abstract

The results of the Russian and Norwegian surveys for shrimp, Pandalus borealis, in the Barents Sea in spring and the Svalbard area in autumn 1992 are presented in this paper. The survey results are presented by nation but the discussion is given combined. Biomass, size- and sex frequency will be presented for subareas. The data from both countries show similar trends. They indicate that the shrimp biomass in the Barents Sea has decreased with approximately 15 % since 1991. The Hopen area and the Bear Island trench area show the largest reduction. However, there is a slight increase in the biomass north of 75°30'N, this may be due to warmer sea temperatures. The Svalbard area was investigated only by the Norwegians. New areas were covered north of Svalbard. An increase in the biomass is observed in the Svalbard area.