Final answer:
The exact number of fish species off the coast of Svalbard is unspecified, but globally there are about 28,000 species, demonstrating significant biodiversity. Fish populations can be influenced by various factors including overexploitation and invasive species.
Step-by-step explanation:
The number of fish species found off the coast of Svalbard is not provided in the reference provided; however, the general diversity of fish globally includes approximately 28,000 existing species of fish, categorized into five classes: hagfish, lampreys, cartilaginous fish, ray-finned bony fish, and lobe-finned bony fish. This vast diversity reflects the large number of habitats and ecological niches in the ocean, ranging from shallow coastal waters to the deepest parts of the ocean. When looking at specific ecosystems such as those around Svalbard, the species composition can vary greatly, influenced by factors like water temperature, salinity, depth, and prey availability.
It's also worth noting that there are many different factors at play in marine ecosystems that affect fish populations, such as overexploitation and invasive species. Examples such as the overexploited Brazilian sardine demonstrate the potential for fish stocks to quickly decline when not managed sustainably.