Loddeundersøkelser i Barentshavet i september-oktober 1975

Abstract

During September-October 1975 observations were made on the distribution, abundance and age composition of capelin in the Barents Sea. The geographical distribution was similar to the distribution in autumn 1974 with exception of the area between Kong Karls Land and Spitzbergen where no capelin were recorded this year. The abundance of capelin was found to be high, and it was concluded that the spawning stock was 2.0-2.5 million metric tons. The 1973 year-class was reduced in number by approximately 60 per cent between autumn 1974 and autumn 1975, and this is believed to be caused by an increased natural mortality due to poor feeding conditions in 1974. During the summer of 1975 the growth of capelin was considerably better than during the summer of 1974.