LOSS OF THE LEGS BY THE RED KING CRAB IN THE BARENTS SEA IN 2001-2006
The frequency of leg loss was registered in the red king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus (Tilesius, 1815)) from trawl and trap catches in the Barents Sea in 2001-2005. The loss of at least one leg was registered in 18% of individuals. The highest traumatism was found in the specimens from trawl catches; the lowest - in the trap catches. Females lost legs more frequently than males. In both sexes, rear walking legs were lost more frequently than the forelegs (chelas). In seasonal aspect, the higher traumatism was observed during the molting period (spring). The expected relationship between intensity of crab fishery and the frequency of crab injuries was not found. It has been assumed that the red king crab traumatism is caused mainly by natural factors.