Computer simulation of pelagic production in Masfjorden, western Norway, and its consequences for production of released 0-group cod

An ecosystem model including nutrients, phytoplankton, herbivores, two groups of pelagic carnivores, sublittoral gobies and 0-group cod is presented. The model is driven by solar radiation, temperature, freshwater run-off, and water exchange across the sill. The production of food for 0-group cod, such as sublittoral gobies, pelagic krill, prawns, and mesopelagic fish, is simulated. Simulations illustrate how the different compartments of the system are influenced by alterations in the forcing of the system. Water exchange, especially the renewal of sublittoral water, turned out to be the most important process determining the carrying capacity of young cod. The explanation is that the water renewal supplies the sublittoral habitat with zooplankton, which is utilized by the prey of young cod. Finally, effects of different cod release programmes are simulated and discussed..

This article is part of Marine Science Symposia Volume 192 - "The ecology and management aspects of extensive mariculture". To access other articles from this volume, please use the link to the volume on the upper right hand side.