Some observations on biological peculiarities of the Svalbard form of the Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus (L.))

Abstract

Morphological studies on the Svalbard form of Salvelinus alpinus (L.) revealed numerous differences between the form and populations of the species from other regions. A suggestion is put forward that the differences have resulted from different, sometimes extremely harsh, environmental conditions the Svalbard population is exposed to. A more restrictive protection of the species as an environmental indicator is postulated to be implemented on Svalbard.