The Behaviour of Juvenile Pacific Salmon, with Particular Reference to the Sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka)

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Abstract
Behaviour patterns of juvenile sockeye salmon in fresh water are compared with those of chum and coho salmon. Both sockeye and chum fry are schooling fish, responding positively to currents and avoiding shallow waters. Of the two species, chums, however, form more active schools, travel more rapidly, have a less marked cover reaction and prefer stronger light and shallower water. Sockeye smolts, in contrast to coho smolts, are more active, show little thigmotactic and territorial behaviour and a more persistent response to current. The experimental findings are discussed in relation to the migratory behaviour of these fish. It is suggested that sockeye fry, emerging from cover as the light intensity falls are displaced downstream after dark. Moderate activity and a marked preference for deep water are mechanisms postulated for continued residence of sockeye fry in lakes. Further it is suggested that the smolt exodus is due to heightened general activity, both day and night, associated with strong response to current. This brings sockeye smolts into the outflow from the lake where they hold position during the day but are displaced down the river after dark. Coho smolts, responding less vigorously to currents and maintaining a measure of contact with specific objects in their environment, move seaward more slowly than sockeye.

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