Significant decline in mackerel populations revealed by research expedition in Northeast Atlantic

A recent research expedition revealed a significant decline in mackerel populations in the Northeast Atlantic, with a 42% reduction compared to last year. This is the lowest level recorded since 2007, according to the Marine Research Institute.

Collaborative efforts were made by Icelanders, Faroese, Norwegians, and Danes during the expedition, which took place from June 28 to August 2. The distribution of mackerel around Iceland this year was reported to be less than in the previous year. However, approximately 20% of the total biomass of mackerel was found within Icelandic waters, a notable increase from just over 10% in the last year.

As in previous years, the majority of the mackerel stock remains concentrated in the Norwegian Sea, particularly in the southwest region. The results of the mackerel survey were presented to the stock assessment working group of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) yesterday. These findings, along with other data, will be utilized to assess the mackerel stock size.

ICES is expected to provide advice regarding the catch limits for the next year for mackerel, Norwegian-Icelandic herring, and blue whiting on September 30.