Stock state and regional biological features of Atka mackerel of the Kuril-Kamchatka population
https://doi.org/10.36038/2307-3497-2026-203-5-17
EDN: AKYLNR
Abstract
Objective: to study the distribution, biology, size composition, and growth characteristics of Atka mackerel in four Russian fishing areas (the West Bering Sea zone, the Karaginskaya and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatka subzones of the East Kamchatka zone, and the North Kuril zone).
Methods: Data collection and processing were conducted in accordance with generally accepted ichthyological methods. Age was determined by otoliths.
Novelty: Specific growth characteristics of Atka mackerel in the North Kuril zone were identified, including the absence of significant differences in the linear growth of males and females, which was reflected in the size structure of the catches.
Results: the research demonstrated gradual variability in the growth of Atka mackerel, with an increase in the linear size of individuals observed from north to south — from the West Bering Sea zone to the Petropavlovsk-Komandorsky subzone. This variability in size, as well as specific growth patterns in the North Kuril zone, indicate heterogeneity among Atka mackerel populations across the vast aquatory of the northwestern Pacific shelf. Given the species’ relatively low migratory activity, the existence of several distinct groups (subpopulations) adapted to local conditions can be assumed.
Practical significance: the results can be used to estimate the abundance of Atka mackerel, develop TACs, and plan rational use, taking into account regional growth patterns.
About the Authors
E. N. Kuznetsova
Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography («VNIRO»)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
19, Okruzhnoy proezd, Moscow, 105187
G. Yu. Golovatyuk
Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography («VNIRO»)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
19, Okruzhnoy proezd, Moscow, 105187
A. O. Trofimova
Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography («VNIRO»)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
19, Okruzhnoy proezd, Moscow, 105187
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Review
For citations:
Kuznetsova E.N., Golovatyuk G.Yu., Trofimova A.O. Stock state and regional biological features of Atka mackerel of the Kuril-Kamchatka population. Trudy VNIRO. 2026;203:5-17. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.36038/2307-3497-2026-203-5-17. EDN: AKYLNR
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