Decapod Crustaceans of the Kara Sea: species composition and peculiarities of distribution

Abstract

This paper presents data on species composition and peculiarities of distribution of Decapoda in the southern part of Kara Sea obtained during trawl surveys in 2012 and 2016. In total, 11 species of decapod crustaceans were collected. In the last decade the fauna has been enriched by the invasion of the snow crab Chionoecetes opilio. Brief information on the environmental conditions of occurrence and maps of distribution in the studied area are presented for each species. The highest values of species richness (up to 6 species per catch), biomass and abundance of decapods were detected on the western slope of Priyamal shallow at 50–150 m depth range. According to the patterns of distribution and environmental conditions, three groups of species were distinguished: associated with cold and salty waters of Novaya Zemlya Trough; inhabiting lower salinity waters with a wide temperature range of the Priyamal and Ob-Yenisei shallows; and a group that is widespread within the area in wide range of conditions. In comparison with the neighboring Barents Sea, the decapod fauna of the Kara Sea is qualitatively and quantitatively depleted. The obtained data on the distribution of individual species and ecological groups can be used for the background assessment of the state of the decapod fauna, including the period of population formation of the alien species.