— 41 



JOH. HJOKT. AND 0. G. JOH. PBTEKSEN 



task in the study of the natural history of the cod in the near future, is to be seen in just 

 these experiments, from which the first survey of the distribution of the different age-groups 

 will be obtained for the whole region under investigation; and it may perhaps, be considered 

 as a propitious result of the cooperation, that a comprehensive material has already been col- 

 lected for the accomplishment of this task. 



These investigations on the migrations stand in the closest relation to important fisheries 

 questions. Thus, in the Norwegian Sea, the great fluctuations in the catches of fish have played 



Fig. 7 



a great part since ancient times. All|historical|accounts speak of years which'were specially 

 rich and of years when the fish were absent, and though of recent years the entire technical 

 equipment, of apparatus, boats etc. has considerably improved, the absence of the shoals still 

 strikes deep into the conditions of the fishing people. Our investigations have consequently, 

 also had the important task of studying, both the economic conditions under which the fisliery 

 is worked practically, as well as the influence of the oceanic currents on the occurrence of 

 the fish on the banks. 



As the great fluctuations in the migrations can only be explained after further experience. 



Appendix Q " 



