Atlantic Salmon: The Classic

General Description 

The Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is a large, migratory fish native to the North Atlantic Ocean and its rivers. Known for its sleek, silver body with a blue or greenish tint, it typically weighs between 8-12 pounds but can grow larger in the wild, reaching over 3 feet long and living up to 6 years. Atlantic salmon are anadromous.

The range of Atlantic salmon spans the North Atlantic, from North America to Europe. As they prepare to spawn, Atlantic salmon undergo significant physical changes. Their body color often darkens, and they develop a pronounced hook, or “kype,” in the males, which makes their jaws more curved. Atlantic salmon grow relatively quickly compared to other fish species, especially in the ocean. The Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), named by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, derives from Latin, where salmo means “salmon” and salar refers to “leaper.” This reflects the fish’s ability to leap over obstacles during migration. 

Fast Facts

• Scientific Name

            Salmo salar

• Size

            28-30 inches (length), 8-12 pounds (weight)

• Lifespan

            Up to 6 years

• Range

            Found in waters around Iceland, Greenland, Canada, and Norway

• Diet

           Feeds on smaller fish, crustaceans, and plankton

• Migration Type

           Anadromous (hatch in freshwater, migrate to sea, return to spawn)

• Predators

        bald eagles, ospreys, bears, seals, larger fish species, and humans

• Naming

       Named by Carl Linnaeus in 1758; salmo means “salmon,” and salar means “leaper”

• Other Name

        Black Salmon, Landlocked Salmon (Ouananiche), Bay Salmon

About the Species

Taste

Atlantic salmon has a rich, buttery flavor with a tender, flaky texture. Its mild taste allows it to absorb marinades and seasonings easily, making it versatile for various cooking methods. The high-fat content contributes to its moistness and enhances its flavor, making it a popular choice for both casual and gourmet dishes.

Health Benefits

Atlantic salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation. Regular consumption can aid in weight management and support overall bodily functions.

Nutrition Facts

Include a brief breakdown of its nutritional content per serving (3.5 oz):

• Calories: 206
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 13g (mostly healthy unsaturated fat)
• Vitamins and Minerals: High in Vitamin D, B vitamins, and Selenium

Classification and name origin

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) belongs to the family Salmonidae and the order Salmoniformes. It is classified within the genus Salmo, which includes other salmon and trout species. The species name “salar” is derived from Latin, meaning “leaper,” reflecting the fish’s ability to jump obstacles during migration. It was first named by Carl Linnaeus in 1758.

Life History/Biology

Atlantic salmon undergo complex life stages that include hatching in freshwater, migrating to the ocean, and returning to rivers to spawn. They begin their life as eggs in gravel nests (redds) and hatch into alevins, which later develop into fry and then parr as they grow in freshwater. After about 1-3 years, they transform into smolts and migrate to the ocean, where they mature for 1-3 years before returning to freshwater to spawn.

During spawning, males develop a distinctive hook-shaped jaw (kype) and change color. After spawning, many adults die, but some may survive and return to the ocean, showcasing their iteroparous nature. Atlantic salmon are characterized by their high adaptability to various environments, including freshwater and marine habitats.

Availability

Atlantic salmon are available year-round in fresh, frozen, and canned forms. Most of the salmon in markets is farmed, primarily from Norway, Chile, and Scotland, due to declining wild populations.

Is Sockeye Salmon Sustainable?

Atlantic salmon is not considered fully sustainable in the wild due to overfishing and habitat loss. However, farmed Atlantic salmon is widely available and can be a more sustainable option when responsibly managed. Eco-friendly farming methods are essential for reducing the environmental impact of aquaculture.

Related Species

• Coho
• Sockeye
• Pink
• Chinook
• Chum

FAQs