Atlantic Salmon
Atlantic salmon (*Salmo salar*) is a species of ray-finned fish in the salmon family, Salmonidae.
Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is a species of ray-finned fish in the salmon family, Salmonidae. It is native to the North Atlantic basin and is anadromous, migrating between freshwater and saltwater. Atlantic salmon is native to eastern Canada, including rivers in Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Maritime provinces, and is an important species in Canadian fisheries, conservation, and aquaculture.
Description
Atlantic salmon are large, silvery fish with dark spots on the body and head. Adults commonly reach about 1.2–1.5 m in length and can weigh up to 40 kg, though many individuals are smaller. The species is the only member of the genus Salmo commonly called salmon.
Distribution and habitat
Atlantic salmon occurs around the North Atlantic Ocean and in rivers that drain into it, with populations in North America and Europe. The species uses different habitats at different life stages, relying on freshwater for spawning and cold marine waters for growth. Some populations are landlocked and remain in freshwater throughout their lives.
Life cycle
Atlantic salmon hatch in rivers, migrate to sea as juveniles, then return to freshwater as adults to spawn. After spawning, some individuals die, while others may survive and spawn again. During their marine phase, they feed on invertebrates and small fish. Most that survive to reproduce live about 5 to 8 years, though some can live up to 13 years.
Conservation and human use
Some wild populations have been reduced by habitat change, dams, and other pressures. The U.S. Gulf of Maine population is listed as endangered in the United States. Atlantic salmon is also widely farmed, making it an important aquaculture species, particularly in Canada where it is vital to fisheries and conservation efforts.
Key facts
- Atlantic salmon is the only species in the genus Salmo commonly called salmon.
- It is native to both sides of the North Atlantic, including parts of North America and Europe.
- The species is anadromous: it hatches in freshwater, grows at sea, and returns to rivers to spawn.
- Adults may spawn more than once, although many die after spawning.
- Some populations are landlocked and never migrate to the sea.
Atlantic salmon is native to eastern Canada, including rivers in Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Maritime provinces. It is an important species in Canadian fisheries, conservation, and aquaculture.
Frequently asked questions
What is Atlantic salmon?
Where do Atlantic salmon live?
Why is Atlantic salmon called anadromous?
How long do Atlantic salmon live?
Are Atlantic salmon endangered?
Are there landlocked Atlantic salmon?
References
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada — https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/species-especes/publications/salmon-saumon/lifecycle-cyclevital/index-eng.htmlSupports: Description, distribution in North America, habitat, and life cycle
- The Wildlife Trusts — https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/freshwater-fish/atlantic-salmonSupports: Species traits, size, lifespan, diet, and spawning behaviour
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/Atlantic-salmonSupports: Scientific name, family, range, spawning, life cycle, and landlocked forms
- NOAA Fisheries — https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/outreach-and-education/fun-facts-about-amazing-atlantic-salmonSupports: Genus, lifespan, spawning, eggs, and endangered Gulf of Maine population
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/salmonSupports: Atlantic salmon as the single Atlantic species, anadromous life history, and endangered status in the U.S.