The fish populations in inshore waters of the West Coast of Scotland. The distribution, abundance and growth of the whiting (Merlangius merlangus L.)

The whiting (Merlangius merlangus) is an important commercial species from the West Coast of Scotland. This paper describes the distribution, abundance, age composition and growth of juvenile whiting which are found in the inshore areas and sea lochs. No spawning was observed in the areas and it is assumed there was an active migration of whiting from the open sea. They were first caught by the bottom trawl in July, reached maximum abundance in November and December and thereafter declined in numbers until few remain by early summer. An exception to this occurs in Loch Etive and possible explanations for the fact that whiting tend to remain for longer periods and grow at a slower rate in this loch are discussed.