The studies were conducted at six hydrobiological stations evenly distributed along the route. At each of them, scientists took samples of zooplankton and zoobenthos. An important novelty of the expedition was the first practical experience of using the updated method of sampling zooplankton in watercourses — in accordance with current methodological recommendations. In parallel, phenological observations of abiotic environmental factors were conducted.
To study the ichthyofauna, a set of fixed gill nets with a mesh pitch from 18 to 60 mm was used. At that time, the fish was in the post-spawning feeding phase. In small—scale nets, dace, bleak and roach predominated, in large-scale nets - river perch, pike, bream; roach and carp were less common. Additional reconnaissance fishing on spinning showed that the basis of catches is pike, and river perch was found only once.
The scientists also assessed the activity of amateur fishing: From 4 to 20 motor and rowing boats were recorded in the most promising areas. Most often, fishermen used spinning rods, but there were also bottom gear.
All the collected material has been transferred to the branch for desk processing. The results will help to estimate the distribution, abundance, and reproduction of aquatic biological resources in 2026, as well as generate a catch forecast for 2028.
VNIRO Press Service
