Aerial surveys to assess the resources of the Korfo-Karaginskaya herring

 

For over 80 years, specialists from the branch have been monitoring the state of the Korfo-Karaginskaya herring stocks, which are the most important commercial species for Far Eastern fishermen. Traditionally, the forecast for this species is based on the results of research during the spawning period (May) and during its fattening and wintering (November–December), while research at spawning grounds using aerial surveys is of primary importance.

 

The objectives of the expedition include conducting aerial surveys and outlining herring spawning areas, assessing the intensity of spawning and the size of the spawning stock, determining the biological characteristics of the herring, and studying the conditions of reproduction.

 

As Semyon Veselov, head of the expedition and senior specialist of the marine fish laboratory, said, during almost 10 flight hours by helicopter, the main spawning grounds located in the Korfa, Uala and Anapka bays were surveyed, samples of spawning substrate with eggs laid on it were collected, and hydrological studies were carried out.

 

According to experts, the first herring approaches, as well as its spawning, began on May 6-7. The largest accumulation of herring was noted in Anapka Bay, and the peak of spawning of Korfo-Karaginskaya herring in the research area this year occurred on May 10, which roughly coincides with the spawning dates in 2024.

 

The obtained data is currently being processed. The research results will be used to assess the current and prospective state of stocks, substantiate the TAC of herring in the Karaginskaya subzone for 2027.

 

Press service of VNIRO