Atlantic Salmon and Similar Species
Salmo salar
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Atlantic Salmon. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Brown Trout
Salmo trutta
Key differences: Brown Trout typically have more numerous black spots, often with a halo, and spots extend below the lateral line. Their vomerine teeth are usually in a double or zigzag row. The caudal fin is less forked than Atlantic Salmon, and the caudal peduncle is stouter. Spawning Brown Trout often retain more of their silvery coloration than Atlantic Salmon.
Rainbow Trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss
Key differences: Rainbow Trout (including steelhead, the anadromous form) have numerous small black spots covering the entire body and fins, including the caudal fin. They typically have a prominent pink or red stripe along the lateral line. Their vomerine teeth are in a single, straight row, but the bone itself is shorter and broader than in Atlantic Salmon.
Pacific Salmon (e.g., Chinook, Coho)
Oncorhynchus spp.
Key differences: Pacific salmon species generally have larger mouths that extend well past the eye. Their anal fin typically has more rays (13-19 vs. 8-11 in Atlantic Salmon). Spotting patterns vary, but are often more extensive than Atlantic Salmon. Pacific salmon are semelparous (spawn once and die), whereas Atlantic Salmon are iteroparous (can spawn multiple times).
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