The Current Status and Trends in the Commercial Stock of the Japanese Anchovy, Engraulis japonicus (Engraulidae), in Russian Waters of the Sea of Japan

An analysis of trawl survey data has shown that the Japanese anchovy, Engraulis japonicus, of the Tsushima Current stock inhabit the northwestern Sea of Japan during warm seasons and play an important role in the pelagic food web. The anchovy commercial stock has been decreasing in recent years, which leads to a reduction in the migration intensity into Russian waters, but the stock remains at a level that allows fishing. The anchovy wash-ups on the Far East coast are likely due to unstable habitat conditions caused by climate change. A conclusion is made that the northwestern Sea of Japan pelagic ecosystem needs more intensive research that will clarify the status of fishery resources constituted by southern migrants, including the anchovy, Far Eastern sardine, and chub mackerel.