Dpt. Fish and Shellfish

Survey, East Greenland

Responsibility of advisory material with regards to biology

The department is responsible for preparing the advisory material relating to exploitation and protection of the species that are most important to the community in terms of fisheries. The work is focused on research, monitoring and advice on shrimp, halibut, cod, crabs and redfish. The department has also to a lesser extent dealt with species such as catfish, scallops and salmon.

Information from fisheries and in-house investigations

The researchers use information from fisheries as well as from the institutes own biological scientific investigations as a basis for advising. The results of these investigations are presented in international scientific bodies where researchers from the member countries compare and assess the scientific information on the development of the various fish populations. Subsequently, the researchers prepare the advisory material supplied by Greenland Institute of Natural Resources to the Government of Greenland.

Routine assignments, reports, and scientific papers

The Department of Fish and Shellfish carries out several routine assignments as part of the scientific work. These include analysis of log book information, age determination of fish by otolith examination, collection and analysis of samplings from fisheries, investigation of crab egg maturation stages, analyses of fisheries statistics, and planning and completion of annually recurring population studies of shrimp, crab, Greenland halibut, cod, and salmon. In addition, the department continuously plans and carries out new research projects and prepares reports, meeting documents, scientific papers, and advisory material as well as participating in international meetings in scientific settings.

Hydrographical data for international climate research

Finally, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources collects hydrographical data, which is then sent on to international databases for use in international climate research. The department makes a point of increasing the contact to the entire fisheries area in order to improve the cooperation and exchange of knowledge between fishermen, biologists, fisheries inspectors, hunting and fisheries officers, and interest groups.

Cooperation with local fishermen

Therefore, employees meet locally with interested parties whenever possible in order to gain information on local fishermen’s experience regarding the resources and to present and discuss study methods, results, advice, and biological issues. In addition, employees participate in seminars on fisheries issues and provide teaching in relevant topics

Participation in international scientific work

Employees participate in international scientific research activities relating to advising on the species with which the department is concerned. The department is represented in the following international bodies:

• Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization, NAFO
• International Council for the Exploration of the Sea, ICES
• North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission, NEAFC

A survey on shrimps is carried out every year.