Analysis of Trabzon and Samsun fish market records between 2013 and 2021

This study analyzes the quantities of fish recorded in the fish markets in Trabzon and Samsun, which have an important position in Turkey, especially in the Black Sea Region, between 2013 and 2021. The analysis includes key variables such as fish species diversity, quantity and trade volume. A comprehensive analysis is presented using both quantitative and qualitative data. This assessment aims to provide an understanding of the functioning of fish markets in general as well as fish market studies and assessments in a specific region. It was determined that a total of 14 fish species were traded in the Trabzon fish market, while 21 fish species were traded in the Samsun fish market. It was found that over 90% of the fish sold in both markets were obtained through fishing, with this figure being approximately 93% in Trabzon and 91% in Samsun. The remaining portion comes from aquaculture (7% in Trabzon and 9% in Samsun). Upon examining the data obtained, it was observed that the most frequently sold fish species in both markets were anchovy, horse mackerel, bonito, and whiting, respectively. A comparison of the fish markets in Samsun and Trabzon revealed variations in the species available at each market. The Samsun fish market was found to have a higher transaction volume compared to the Trabzon fish market. For the years examined, the contribution of each fish market to the total fish production in Turkey and the Eastern Black Sea region was approximately 10% and 5%, respectively. These figures are quite significant in terms of fish transaction volume in Turkey.