Comprehensive research on Lake Teletskoye in the Altai Republic

 

During the expedition, ichthyological and hydrobiological surveys were conducted at five stations in the northern part of the lake. Phenological observations of abiotic factors (water and air temperature, water level, transparency, and dissolved oxygen content) were conducted, and samples were collected to assess the abundance and population structure of the main fish species.

 

Whitefish accounted for the largest number of catches, reaching 76%. Spatial heterogeneity in its distribution was revealed: in the northwestern part (near the village of Artybash), individuals had immature gonads, while spawning aggregations of fish were observed in the northeastern bays starting on October 26. Mass whitefish spawning began on October 29. The first running specimens were recorded at surface water temperatures of 5.2–5.8°C.

 

Small aggregations of burbot were noted in whitefish spawning grounds. Burbot, which constituted a significant portion of the biomass, were concentrated at depths of 15–20 meters, and whitefish remains were found in their stomachs (20% of dissected specimens).

 

The hydrological regime during the observation period was characterized by autumnal homothermy with active wind mixing, which contributed to temperature equalization (5.0–5.8°C at the surface and 5.1–5.6°C at a depth of 5 meters) and also ensured high dissolved oxygen levels (86–89% saturation).

 

All collected material was transferred to the Altai branch of VNIRO for further identification and statistical processing. The processed data will be used to analyze the distribution, abundance, and reproduction of aquatic bioresources, as well as their habitats, in 2025 and will form the basis for a 2027 aquatic bioresource catch forecast.

 

 

VNIRO Press Service