On the use of the Plavinas Reservoir for fishery

Abstract

Based on the material sampled in 1967-69 the conditions influencing reproduction of commercial fish in the Plavinas Reservoir were estimated. The reproduction conditions in the Plavinas Reservoir were unfavourable. Owing to the frequent fluctuations in the water level, the commercial fish could not use the existing small spawning areas. The main cause of the decrease in abundance of fish was periodical drainage of the littoral of the reservoir. Simultaneously, in the ichthyofauna of the Plavinas Reservoir the abundance of inferior species, especially roach (Rutilus rutilus) was increasing. For conservation and increase in the value of the Plavinas Reservoir in fishery, the introduction of predatory fish, e. g. the young stages of pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) was recommended. Also, stocking of young bream (Abramis brama) into the reservoir was recommended to support the fishery for bream.