Some specific characteristics of Dissostichus eleginoides biology in the vicinity of the Kerguelen Islands (Division 58.5.1)

For recent years Dissostichus eleginoids is the main target species of trawling and long-line fisheries in the vicinity of the Kerguelen Islands. Results of research made by the author on board the fishing vessel "Poltava" in the summer season 1991-1992 were the base for the present paper. Regular direct distribution of size groups D. eleginoides in depth range within the fishing area on the northern slope of shelf was revealed. Difference in feeding spectrum of these groups was noted that in this case characterized quality composition of food supply in different depths. Seasonal (summer) migration of size groups was directed from less depths to greater ones. In April in depths of 550-600 m the group of D. eleginoides was supposed to he which in December-February occurred in depths of 350-400 m. Feeding on fish and squids primarily D. eleginoides under definite conditions might turn to more assessable (Hyperiida), secondary (jelly-like fish) or incidental (bottom crustaceans, octopoda, vessels' wastes) food. Seasonal change in quality composition of D. eleginoides in depths of 500-600 m was revealed, i.e . cold-water jelly fishes (Salpae, Ct,enophora, Scyphomedusae) being the basic food component in December-February were replaced with natal-subtropic species of the squid (Chiroteuthis veranyi) in March-April.