omul

Omul is a common name for several whitefish species in the genus Coregonus. In Russia the term most often refers to the Baikal omul, a population of whitefish endemic to Lake Baikal in Siberia. Baikal omul is an important part of the lake’s ichthyofauna and has long been the subject of commercial fishing and regional cuisine.

Habitat and biology: Baikal omul inhabits the cold, clear waters of Lake Baikal, occupying both pelagic and coastal zones. It spawns in autumn in shallower bays and at river mouths, with adults migrating to these areas to reproduce. The species feeds mainly on zooplankton and small invertebrates, and young fish grow in the lake’s bays before shifting to deeper waters.

Fisheries and cultural significance: Omul has been a traditional and economically important fish for local communities around Baikal. It is marketed fresh, salted, dried, and especially smoked; smoked omul is widely regarded as a regional specialty. The fish also contributes to fisheries statistics and conservation planning for the lake’s ecosystem.

Taxonomy and conservation: The Baikal omul is a population within the Coregonus genus. Some authorities treat it as a distinct subspecies or stock, while others classify it within broader Baikal whitefish groups. Management of omul fisheries aims to balance harvest with the conservation of the lake’s biodiversity, including stock assessments, seasonal and area-based restrictions, and restocking programs where appropriate.