To the assessment of green sea urchin stocks in the coastal zone of the Barents Sea

The purpose of the work is to assessment the state of stocks of the green sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis) in the coastal zone of the Barents Sea.Methods used — to achieve the set goal, standard methods for collecting hydrobiological material and calculating the abundance and biomass of hydrobionts were used.Novelty — the data obtained as a result of the research made it possible to update information on the state of the green sea urchin stocks on the coasts of Western and Eastern Murman.Results — the total and commercial reserves of sea urchin were determined on an area of 2812 thousand m2. The total stock of sea urchins was 3.58 thousand tons, the commercial one — 2.17 thousand tons. The total density of urchins in the studied water area was 32 specimens/m², the commercial one — 10.3 specimens/m². The most promising areas for fishing have been identified.Practical significance — thanks to the use of the research results, adding them to materials from other sources, it will be possible to more accurately predict the volumes and timing of fishing. Mining companies will receive more complete information about promising fishing areas and possible catch volumes.