Soviet oceanological and fishery investigations in the Southern Ocean have been carried out respectively since 1946 and 1961. More than 150 expeditions have been undertaken until now. The results of investigations are outlined in brief. Species composition, the distribution of bio-resources, bio-productivity and food chains of marine organisms in Antarctica have been found to be closely connected to the latitudinal vertical and circum­Antarctic patterns of the water structure to the south of the Antarctic convergence. 

Two different natural zones have been identified: the pack ice area and open water area. The ecosystem components, their status patterns of primary and overall productivity and existing food chains are discussed. Antarctic krill is the principal plankton form in the zone of the pack ice. The average annual level of krill production is 24-70 g/m² in this area. Some local small ecosystems along the area of the Antarctic current influence and within the shelf areas of sub-Antarctic islands have also been determined. The average estimations of fish productivity for the different parts of Antarctic waters are provided. The attention of the CCAMLR Scientific Committee has been drawn to particular scientific problems.