VNIRO scientists completed expeditionary work in the Sea of ​​Okhotsk

 

The study was conducted on the research vessel Zodiac. The collected data will form the basis for forecasting total allowable catches (TACs) for 2027 and beyond, which is key to the sustainable development of the domestic fishing industry.

 

The first phase of the study examined deep-sea crab populations in the North Sea of ​​Okhotsk subzone and the central part of the Sea of ​​Okhotsk. During the study, 48 trap stations were established, where the scientists analyzed approximately 4,000 commercial invertebrates, including the common crab, the snow crab, and the opilio crab.

 

The crab survey yielded unique data:

 

-The spatial and bathymetric distribution of species was assessed;

-Information on the size, weight, and sex composition of crabs was obtained;

-A census of the species and quantity composition of bycatch was conducted.

This information provides a scientific basis for understanding the biology of deep-sea crabs and assessing their stocks.

 

The second phase of the study focused on gastropod mollusks (family Buccinidae), in particular, commercial whelk species. Survey stations were located both within and outside traditional fishing areas, expanding our understanding of the distribution of these species.

 

During the study, 66 stations were established, and approximately 15,000 whelk specimens were analyzed. As a result:

 

-The locations and distribution boundaries of commercial whelk species were identified;

-Data on the size and sex composition of approximately 30 gastropod species were collected;

-New promising fishing areas have been discovered.

"The research conducted will allow us to refine the assessment of whelk stocks, improve resource management, and prevent potential depletion," emphasized Evgeny Metelev, head of the Magadan branch.

 

The collected scientific data is fundamental for developing measures for the rational use of aquatic bioresources in the Far Eastern fishery basin and ensuring the sustainable development of Russia's fishing industry.

 

 

Press Service of VNIRO