Field Identification of Coastal Juvenile Salmonids [Paperback]

Correctly identifying young salmonids improves the accuracy of resource management information, leading to a fuller knowledge of the distribution and status of fish stocks. Until now, identifying coastal salmonids during their fry to smolt life stages in freshwater and saltwater estuaries of the Pacific Northwest has been difficult due to the lack of comprehensive, practical information. This guide was written and compiled by top fisheries biologists from government and industry who wanted to make available a simple, easy-to-use system for identifying 10 of the most common species of juvenile salmon, trout and char in the field.

The guide uses high-quality photos, colour illustrations and detailed drawings to show distinguishing physical features for each species. An easy-to-follow chart facilitates identification of the three major groupings and individual species. Habitat use information and maps help to determine where and when various species may be found for sampling.A must for biologists, resource assessment workers, forestry workers, salmon enhancement groups, naturalists, fisheries students and members of the public interested in fisheries projects.Emphasis is on features by which live fish can be identified, so they can be returned to the water unharmed.

Information on the most likely place in a watershed to find each species, and on freshwater residence time.

14 colour photos of live specimens with key diagnostic features highlighted to help with identification.

18 colour illustrations and 60 b/w illustrations.

Key showing important physical features and detailed drawings to illustrate differences among species.

Fish viewing bag to keep fish alive while identifying them (fits into a pocket on the inside back cover).

Clear information on identifying features that can be used only when fish are killed.

Durable waterproof paperCorrect identification of young salmonids will improve the acclC)