Pink Salmon Oncorhynchus gorbuscha (Walbaum, 1792) (Salmoniformes, Salmonidae) as a Target Species in the Russian North: Value, Distribution, Catch Dynamics, and Conditions for Stock Origin and Development

The results of the long-term research on pink salmon introduction into the new range were generalized. The catch statistics data from commercial, coastal, and recreational fisheries in the White Sea basin are given. On the basis of our own information and published data, a conclusion was made that a limited number of areas appropriate for spawning, temperature regime at the primary stage of the ontogenesis and during smolts downstream migrations, and food supply in feeding grounds are the major factors that limit the abundance of the introduced species in a new range. It is considered that pink salmon is valuable as a target species and that it is necessary to restore ranching and adaptation of even year spawners.