The Distribution of the Greenland Smooth Cockle Serripes groenlandicus (Bivalvia, Cardiidae) in Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan

Abstract

The spatial and bathymetric distribution of the Greenland smooth cockle, Serripes groenlandicus, in Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan has been studied based on the data of three dredge surveys conducted in 2010–2012. The bathymetric range of the species habitat is 20–75 m; the densest aggregations are associated with sandy silt sediments in the central part of the bay at depths of 55–60 m. The surveyed area of S. groenlandicus aggregation is 2255 km²; the total area is believed to be 3430 km². The estimated total species biomass averages 8731 t, ranging within 8538–9831 t.