Ongoing changes in distribution of fish species and challenges to fisheries regulations in Isfjorden, Svalbard
[Published 01 December 2025]
Scientific Publications
Abstract
Changing environmental conditions in Isfjorden impact the abundance and composition of fish species in this major fjord system in Svalbard. New commercially attractive species have already entered and will expand in Svalbard waters. Based on knowledge from different sources, this paper explores and discusses how fisheries may develop in Isfjorden. We found a mismatch between the current regulatory framework, which is too fragmented and complex to address increasingly intricate fisheries matters, and the extent of ongoing changes that may result in larger opportunities for fishing activities in Svalbard waters. Drawing on the situation in Porsangerfjorden, a fjord system in Northern Norway with a boreal character, we emphasize the importance of fisheries resource management. Finally, we surmise that pressure to open fish-landing facilities on Svalbard may increase in connection with the abundance of new species of commercial interest and a stronger interest in consuming local fish products in Longyearbyen.
FACE-IT Scientists:
Julien LEBEL
Nordland Research Institute, Svolvær, Norway
Julien’s FACE-IT Projects I
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• Researcher "Food Provision and Livelihood"
• Researcher "Policy Dialogue and Outreach"
Grete K. HOVELSRUD
Nordland Research Institute, Bodø, Norway
Nord University, Bodø, Norway
Center for International Climate Research Oslo – CICERO, Oslo, Norway
Grete’s FACE-IT Projects I
Grete’s FACE-IT Projects II
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• Member of the Executive Board
• Leader "Transdisciplinary Synthesis"
• Researcher "Identify Key Drivers and Data Management"
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• Researcher "Nature-based Tourism"
Berengere Husson
Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway
ResearchGate
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• Researcher "Biodiversity Changes"
Camilla RISVOLL
Nordland Research Insitute, Bodø, Norway
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• Researcher "Food Provision and Livelihoods"
Inka BARTSCH
Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Bremerhaven, Germany
AWI personal page
Inka’s FACE-IT Projects
Role in FACE-IT:
• Researcher "Biodiversity Changes"







