Abstract: Based on the investigation data of anguillid elver (Anguilla japonica) at eight sampling sites in the waters of Dongwangsha, Sheshan Island, Qingcaosha, Dongfeng Xisha, Jiuduansha, and Nanhui of the Yangtze River Estuary in January-April, 2012, this paper studied the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of the elver in the Yangtze River Estuary. It was found that in 2012, the peak period of glass eel catch was from February to March, and gradually postponed from south to north and from the external to the internal of the estuary water. The spatiotemporal distribution patterns of the elver were accorded with its migrating route in the estuary. The main distribution areas of elver were the external waters of the Yangtze River Estuary, such as Nanhui, Sheshan Island, and Dongwangsha. Nanhui waters had the maximum catching quantity. Comparably, Qingcaosha and Dongfeng Xisha waters located inside of the estuary had lesser catching quantity. The fixedpoint monitoring and questionnaire surveys indicated that the total catch of glass eel in the Yangtze River Estuary was inferred nearly to 16.8 million individuals, with the output value being 50 million Yuan RMB. For the sustainable use of anguillid elver in the Yangtze River Estuary, it was suggested that the elver fishing time should be limited from February to March, and the elver fishing waters should be limited to the areas from Nanhui to Sheshan Island.

Key words: oak., ¹³C, nitrogen mineralization, elevated CO₂, ¹⁵N, organic matter decomposition