Age class composition and growth of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in the shallow water zone of Kongsfjorden, Svalbard

Although Atlantic cod has been observed in Svalbard waters since the 1880s, knowledge about the presence in the Arctic shallow water zone is limited. The regular catch of juvenile Atlantic cod in Kongsfjorden since 2008 is in line with an overall northward shift of boreal fish species toward the Arctic. This is the first study showing the age class composition, growth rates, and stomach content of Atlantic cod in the shallow water zone of Kongsfjorden, Svalbard. From 2012 to 2014 a total of 721 specimens were sampled in 3 to 12 m water depth. The primary age classes were identified as 0+, 1+, and 2+ using otolith age analysis. The different cohorts of these specimens show stable growth rates during the polar day and night. By stomach content analysis, we show that these specimens primarily feed on benthic food sources. These observations support the assumption that the shallow water zone of Kongsfjorden is likely to be a nursery ground for Atlantic cod.