Effects of season, bottom substrate and population dynamics on fish communities in shallow subarctic northeast Atlantic waters

Fish communities in the shallow waters (9–20 m depth) of outer Malangen (69 o N), Northern Norway was studied to investigate effects season, bottom substrate associations and population dynamic parameters on fish assemblages. In four fieldtrips during one year at locations, were sampled by trammel nets composition monitored underwater video. A total 16 species caught, including from Pleuronectidae six Gadidae family. Cod ( Gadus morhua Linnaeus, 1758) most numerous followed plaice Pleuronectes platessa 1758), lemon sole Microstomus kitt Walbaum, 1792) halibut Hippoglossus hippoglossus 1758). dominated catches all months except March, which other flatfishes dominant. On a community scale, richness highest October lowest March. Furthermore, diversity generally higher locations with greater evenness. showed positive association large macroalgae coverage less sand pebble. Plaice common dab Limanda limanda pebble coverage, while more associated maerl beds, cobble low algae coverage. Only younger than 8 years age observed, sampling areas are suggested be nursery area for this species. Von Bertalanffy growth functions estimated cod, sole, coefficient K cod populations adjacent fjords or North Sea populations. Total mortality rates lower further south, may contribute high relative stable biomasses area. • peaked Species positively related Study Atlantic halibut. Plaice, good performance study