Features of the distribution of endemic laminarian algae in the coastal zone of the Kuril Islands

The aim of the work : to clarify the distribution and status of endemic kelp stocks in the coastal areas of the Kuril Islands. Methods used : the analysis was based on literature sources and information obtained in 2019 according to the recommended methods of fishery research. Novelty : An array of data on the distribution of endemic species was analyzed, the current state of rare species resources was determined, and recommendations for the exploitation of kelp algae of the Kuril Islands were developed. Result : Of the five endemic kelp algae of the Kuril Islands, only one, Saccharina fibrosa , forms a significant reserve in the coastal area of Iturup Island. Potentially commercial species of laminarian algae include species with limited distribution and endemics of the Hokkaido–South Kuril region: S. kurilensis , S. angustata , Arthrothamnus kurilensis . Their total reserve near the southern Kuril Islands reaches 470 thousand tons. The coastal zone of the middle Kuril Islands is characterized by the greatest species diversity of kelp algae, which confirms the presence of a center of morphogenesis in this area. The total stock of laminarian algae in the coastal zone of the southern Kuril Islands exceeds 1,381 thousand tons. The least productive should be considered the coastal zone of the northern Kuril Islands, the stock of laminarian algae amounts to only 257.9 thousand tons. The productivity of the middle Kuril Islands reaches 1,795 thousand tons. Practical significance : developed recommendations for the rational use of resources of the laminarian algae of the Kuril Islands.