The Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is a species of anadromous fish in the family Salmonidae. It is the third largest of the Salmonidae, behind Siberian taimen and Pacific Chinook salmon, growing up to a meter in length. Atlantic salmon are found in the northern Atlantic Ocean and in rivers that flow into it. Most populations are anadromous, hatching in streams and rivers but moving out to sea as they grow where they mature, after which the adults seasonally move upstream again to spawn.
Atlantic salmon are an important part of the North Atlantic ecosystem. They help to control populations of other animals, such as sea trout and brown trout. Atlantic salmon are also a popular sport fish and are fished commercially.
Atlantic salmon are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The main threats to Atlantic salmon are habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing.
Here are some things you can do to help Atlantic salmon:
Educate yourself about the threats facing Atlantic salmon.
Support organizations that are working to protect Atlantic salmon.
Choose products that are not made from Atlantic salmon products.
Speak out against habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing.
By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that Atlantic salmon will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Here are some additional facts about Atlantic salmon:
Atlantic salmon are anadromous, meaning they live in both fresh and saltwater.
Atlantic salmon are born in freshwater streams and rivers.
After spending one to three years in freshwater, Atlantic salmon migrate to the ocean.
In the ocean, Atlantic salmon can grow up to 3 feet long and weigh up to 30 pounds.
After spending two to three years in the ocean, Atlantic salmon return to their freshwater streams to spawn.
Atlantic salmon typically spawn only once in their lifetime.
After spawning, Atlantic salmon die.
Atlantic salmon are an important food source for many animals, including bears, eagles, and humans.
Atlantic salmon are also a popular sport fish.
Atlantic salmon are a beautiful and majestic creature. By learning more about them and taking steps to protect them, we can ensure that they will continue to thrive for generations to come.
