On Dynamic Interactions Between Some Fish Resources and Cetaceans off Iceland Based on a Simulation Model

The results indicate that both minke and humpback whales may have significant direct impact on the status of the capelin stock, and the impact of the three baleen whale species on the development of the cod stock is uncertain, but may be considerable.

Abstract

Twelve species of cetaceans are regarded as regular inhabitants in Icelandic and adjacent waters. Based on available estimates of the total food consumption of the cetaceans in the area, this paper explores potential interactions between three baleen whale species off Iceland and the relevant fish resources that constitute a part of their diet prey. The three species of whales are fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus), the largest cetacean consumer in this area, feeding mainly on krill (Meganyctiphanes norvegica) but also preying on some fish species like capelin (Mallotus villosus); minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata), taking krill as well as a variety of fish, including capelin and gadoids (e.g. cod, Gadus morhua); and humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) assumed to be feeding mainly on capelin.