Abstract
The potential of Norwegian fjords as biotopes for extensive mariculture is presently under consideration. The Masfjord project in western Norway aims at revealing the potential for enhancing the cord stock of the fjord system. Gobiids are the most important prey for cod < 20 cm in length. Gobiids in turn prey on mesozooplankton, which to a large extent is advected into the fjord. In this paper, zooplankton distributions in two adjacent fjord systems. Sandsfjord system (later called Sandsfjorden) and Joesenfjorden, southwestern Norway, are compared. Two closely located fjords, one heavily influenced by exchange processes and one with restricted exchange potential with outer waters, deviate markedly in mesoplankton and macroplankton standing stock. It is argued that higher advective input of plankton is one main factor causing higher plankton abundance in the open fjord. Establishment of plankton transport budgets should be a principal element in evaluating the potential yield of extensive mariculture.