In August-September 2008, the densest concentrations of red king crabs, more than 500 ind/sq.km, were observed in the southeastern part of the habitat (Figure 4.3.17). In the rest of the habitat, the density of distribution was low and, as a rule, did not exceed 50-100 ind/sq.km (rarely 250).

Squids

In Norwegian waters the squid Gonatus fabrichii could form a future fishery due to its abundance. The challenges in such a fishery could, however, be to avoid juveniles of other commercial fish species which often is distributed in the same water masses as the squid. The flying squid Todarodes sagittatus has been more or less absent from Norwegian waters for twenty years, but will most proba...

Based on the most recent estimates of spawning stock biomass (SSB, Figure 4.3.19), ICES classifies the stock as having full reproductive capacity and being harvested sustainably. Based on the most recent estimates of fishing mortality, the stock is at present exploited with a fishing mortality below that intended under the agreed management plan. The SSB has been above Bpa since 2002. Surveys indi...

Based on the most recent estimates of SSB (Figure 4.3.21), ICES classifies the stock as having full reproductive capacity and being harvested sustainably. The fishing mortality has fluctuated around Fpa during the last 10 years. The assessment indicates that the spawning stock is at a high level. Very strong year classes of 2004-2006 are recruiting to the fishable stock in 2008-2010, and thus the ...