atlantic salmon

     
     Overall, the Spey is one of the most unpolluted rivers in Britain and its status as a protected area will help to maintain water quality. Both river and riverside provide habitats for many plants, insects, birds and mammals. Most species are dependent upon the river and often upon each other. Any interruption of this precious 'web of life' can have long-term consequences, often for more than one species. The waters and wildlife of the Spey, set against the mountains, attract many people. Visitors bring added vitality adding to the river's web of life. The Spey is an area worthy of special conservation.

     A noble fish, the Atlantic salmon holds a special place in most people's affections, whether for its indomitable energy or its navigational skills. The Atlantic salmon lives as an adult in the sea but spawns in freshwater rivers. After the eggs hatch, the young salmon remain in freshwater for one or more years, then descend to the sea to feed for at least a year before returning to the river of their birth to reproduce. While at sea, Atlantic salmon are silvery on their sides, silvery white underneath, and brown, green, or blue on their backs. As they enter rivers and streams, they become darker taking on a bronze and brown coloration as spawning approaches.

    The size of Atlantic salmon populations is governed to a large degree by the quality, quantity and accessibility of the spawning and nursery habitats. Good spawning habitat includes beds of stones measuring one-half to four inches in diameter. These gravel beds promote the movement of clean, well-oxygenated water. Spawning habitat should be well dispersed throughout the nursery habitat. The Spey provides such a habitat, which is evident in the large populations that return each year.


    Salmon nursery habitat typically is composed of shallow riffle areas interspersed with deeper riffles and pools. The substrate pebbles afford adequate cover for the juvenile salmon. Clean, well-oxygenated water is a necessity. The young salmon also require relatively warm water for growth above 45 degrees F.

     Returning adult salmon must have access to the spawning grounds. An open, unobstructed river is ideal. The distance traveled upriver may range from 10-80 miles. Once in the river, adult salmon making long migrations require refuge from the swift current and will periodically stop and lie in resting pools. Upon nearing the spawning grounds, adult salmon will take up residence in holding pools. Holding pools have the cover, depth, temperature regime, and water velocities preferred by the adults.

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