Variations in the geographical distribution of cod in the Barents Sea in the period 1977-1981

The distribution and abundance of young cod and haddock in the Barents Sea have been investigated during cruises in February- March each year since 1975. These investigations have revealed variations in the geographical distribution of the two species during the period 1977-1981. In the present paper these variations are described and discussed in detail for the different age groups (2-7 years) of cod. The results show a westward migration of cod with increasing age and with decreasing water temperature in the Barents Sea. Consequently, an extreme westerly distribution of biomass of cod occurs when both the sea temperatures are low, and the dominant year class in the stock of young cod is relatively old (4-7 years) which is the situation experienced during the period 1979- 1981