Multi‐decadal variations in spawning ground use in Northeast Arctic haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus)

• DOI: 10.1111/fog.12264
• Publication Date: 2018-03-15T10:23:27Z
• Authors: Øystein Langangen; Leif Christian Stige; Kristina Ø. Kvile; Natalia A. Yaragina; Jon Egil Skjæraasen; Frode B. Vikebø; Geir Ottersen
• Keywords: Haddock

Abstract Despite the importance both in an ecological and management context, much uncertainty remains about underlying factors controlling spawning ground use marine fish. Here, we investigate how of Northeast Arctic (NEA) haddock ( Melanogrammus aeglefinus ) has changed over time. By combining data from a Soviet‐Russian egg survey conducted 35 year period (1959–1993) with biophysical drift model, estimate annual median latitudes NEA haddock. Furthermore, test for statistical association between latitude covariates that are candidates shaping distribution The results indicate no temperature, as measured at Kola transect, or demographic structure, by mean weight spawners. However, find positive significant stock biomass, indicating density‐dependence may be more important location than other such temperature structure. A potential mechanism reported effect biomass act through feeding grounds, which is to expand north‐ eastwards high population density.