Size-weight structure and growth of Mytilus edulis L. in littoral zone of the White, Barents and Norwegian Seas

Abstract

The object of the study is the mussel Mytilus edulis L., which inhabits the littoral of the White, Barents and Norwegian Seas. The work is based on materials collected by the author in 2011-2015. Data on the spatial distribution, size-weight and age structure of the mussel settlements were obtained from the littoral sections of the Seas listed above. It was found out that the maximum density of the mussel settlement observed in the fjord Balsfjord (Norwegian Sea). The largest biomass of molluscs is found in the settlements of the White Sea. The average age of mollusks in settlements of all regions is 2-3 years, the maximum age is 9 years in the Kandalaksha Bay. The largest size and weight parameters are typical for the mussels that inhabit the Kola Bay. Maximum growth rates are characteristic for molluscs from the mouth of the Kola Bay. Mussels from the settlements of the White and Norwegian Seas have similar growth rates.