Family SALMONIDAE

Salmonidae

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Introduction

Members of the Salmonidae are native to the Northern Hemisphere and number about 66 species in 11 genera Nelson (2006). In Australia, salmonid species have been used to stock rivers and streams for over 120 years. Included here are the five species in three genera that are currently maintained in Australian fresh waters by various fisheries departments. Of these species, only rainbow, brown and brook trout have reproducing populations in Australia. Merrick & Schmida (1984) and Allen et al. (2002) reviewed the biology and distributions of the species introduced to Australia.

Salmon and trout are restricted to cooler fresh waters in Australia; in the Northern Hemisphere, a number of species spend time in the ocean. Insects and fishes are important food items. Atlantic salmon is farmed extensively in Tasmania, and trout are of considerable economic importance as a recreational fishery. They are characterised by a large mouth, posterior pelvic fins, an adipose fin, small scales and often, bright colouration. Maximum length is up to 1.5 m.

General References

Allen, G.R., Midgley, S.H. & Allen, M. 2002. Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Australia. Perth : Western Australian Museum 394 pp.

Merrick, J.R. & Schmida, G.E. 1984. Australian Freshwater Fishes Biology and Management. Sydney : J.R. Merrick 409 pp. figs 280 col. figs.

Nelson, J.S. 2006. Fishes of the World. Hoboken, New Jersey : John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 601 pp.

Common Name References

Allen, G.R., Midgley, S.H. & Allen, M. 2002. Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Australia. Perth : Western Australian Museum 394 pp. [357] (Salmon, Trout)

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