Coho Salmon Glossary

Alevin

Stage in the life cycle of salmon following emergence from the egg stage, characterized by the presence of a yolk sac attached to the body.

Anadromous

See, What is an Anadromous Fish?

Emigration

Seaward migration of salmon from their natal streams to the ocean. Also called “outmigration.”

Fecundity

The number of eggs produced by each female salmon.

Fry

Stage in the life cycle of salmon following the “alevin” stage, characterized by the loss of the yolk sac and beginning of feeding on external prey.

Parr

Stage in the life cycle of salmon following the “fry” stage, characterized by the presence of dark vertical bands on the side of its body.

Redd

A nest created using powerful rapid movements of the tail to dislodge the gravels, in which the female deposits her eggs.

Smolt

Stage in the life cycle of salmon following the “parr” stage, characterized by hormonal and other physiological changes that prepare the fish for its seaward migration and life in salt water, the loss of parr marks, and appearance of a silvery color.