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Using cod feeding data, this paper considers the distribution and abundance of macroplankton from different ecological groups (euphausiids and hyperiids) and the variability in their consumption by cod over a period of years during which different water mass temperatures were observed. These years were also characterized by variable abundance of capelin, cod''s main food source. Differences in intensity and duration of cod consumption of euphausiids and hyperiids species are shown, depending on their abundance, temperature conditions, cod distribution, and the supply of capelin for cod. This paper discusses the energetics of consuming different types of prey and the role euphausiids play in the energy balance of cod. The low fat content of cod is sometimes associated with feeding on postspawning euphausiids in summer and autumn. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

On the basis of data from cold (1982 and 1987) and warm summers (1983, 1984, 1990, and 1992), we explore the relationship between the phytoplankton bloom and the timing and intensity of the zooplankton bloom. In warm years, there is more overlap in the time between the zooplankton and the phytoplankton bloom. In northern areas (76–78°N) with seasonal ice, the phytoplankton bloom and reproductive processes in Calanus finmarchicus and Calanus glacialis continue well into August, evidenced by the presence of an abundance of nauplii and younger copepodites. We analyse feeding intensity of capelin and its distribution relative to food availability and capelin abundance. The extent to which feeding areas of cod and capelin, its major prey, overlap is subject to the abundance of these species, distribution of zooplankton, and sea temperature in a given year. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]