Sockeye Salmon and Similar Species
Oncorhynchus nerka
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Sockeye Salmon. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Chinook Salmon
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Key differences: Chinook salmon are generally much larger, have black spots on both lobes of the caudal fin and on the back, and have a black gum line. Sockeye lack these distinct spots and have a white gum line.
Coho Salmon
Oncorhynchus kisutch
Key differences: Coho salmon have spots only on the upper lobe of the caudal fin and on the back, and a white gum line. Their spawning coloration is typically dark red to maroon, not the brilliant red and green of Sockeye. Coho also have fewer gill rakers (19-25).
Chum Salmon
Oncorhynchus keta
Key differences: Chum salmon are typically larger than Sockeye, lack distinct spots, and develop vertical bars of purple and red on their sides during spawning. They have fewer gill rakers (18-25) and a more pointed snout.
Pink Salmon
Oncorhynchus gorbuscha
Key differences: Pink salmon are the smallest Pacific salmon, have large oval spots on their back and both lobes of the caudal fin, and males develop a very pronounced hump during spawning. They have fewer gill rakers (26-34) and a two-year life cycle.
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