Multi-layered gill nets were used for scientific fishing. 12 species of fish were recorded in catches, 7 of them commercial: White Sea herring, Asian toothy smelt, navaga, White Sea cod, polar flounder, river flounder and rufous flounder.
The basis of catches was made up of White Sea herring. Individuals of different ecological groups are traditionally found in the area of the Solovetsky Islands: along with the large "Solovetsky" herring, there is a small form from the Onega and Kandalaksha bays — this is due to their mixing on the border of their ranges.
An important observation: for the first time in 5 years, the proportion of juvenile "Solovetsky" herring exceeded 30%. This indicates the formation of a productive generation of large herring morphs, which are characterized by high consumer qualities.
There are 4 species of gobies among non-commercial species: the European Kerchak, the Arctic helmeted goby, the four-horned goby, the slingshot and the European hook-horn. A single whiting specimen deserves special attention — this species is atypical for the White Sea.
The collected data will help prepare a forecast, develop measures to regulate fishing in the area, and assess the habitat conditions of aquatic biological resources in the Onega Bay.
VNIRO Press Service
