Biomass distribution and pattern of myctophids in the Oman Sea

In conformity with programming to harvest from virgin resources of Myctophids (Benthosema pterotum) in the Oman Sea (Iranian waters), a series of research cruises and trial fishings were carried out from 1992 to 1998. Assessment of B. pterotum stocks was carried out using the data obtained from a series of seven cruises conducted by R/V Ferdows1 in the Iranian waters using modern scientific echo sounder of EK500 system in 1993-94, with complementary monitoring surveys in the following years. The biomass estimates ranged from 1 to 4 million tones with an average of 2.3 million tons. A number of fishing operations using mid-water trawls were also performed in 1994-1998 using the same vessel. Distribution of B. pterotum was found to be all around the Oman Sea. The dense schools of this species were found in the northwest areas of the Iranian waters. Also the F/V Jahad Fanoos was applied during 1994-95 to do some trial fishings and its maximum catch was 50 t /h.