Dynamics of catches, abundance and stock of big-eyed shad Alosa saposchnikowii (Grimm) in the Northern Caspian

Data on commercial catches of big-eyed shad prior to a ban on sea fishing and during the present period are analyzed. Results of investigations into the composition, distribution of adult and young shads, dynamics of abundance are considered. On the basis of the data (2004–2011) on age composition, mortality and growth rate the abundance, biomass and spawning stock are estimated. It was established that the abundance of big-eyed shad is positively correlated with sea level.