The diagrams depict the life cycle of the large fish known as salmon, outlining its stages from spawning to maturity.
Overall, the life cycle of the salmon is a continuous process that intricately alternates between freshwater and marine environments, highlighting key developmental stages.
The cycle commences during the spawning season, which occurs in the quiet waters of the upper river. Here, adult salmon lay their eggs, which subsequently hatch into small alevins, often referred to as ‘small stones’. Following this initial stage, the young salmon migrate downstream to the lower river. This transition is crucial, as the fast-flowing waters of this region provide an optimal environment for growth. This stage typically lasts between three to six months, during which the young salmon develop their strength and size before progressing to the next phase of their life cycle.
Upon completing their growth period in the lower river, the salmon embark on a migration towards the open sea, where they spend approximately one year maturing. This marine environment enables the salmon to reach their full size and develop essential adult characteristics. Following this maturation phase, the adult salmon instinctively return to the upper river to spawn, thereby initiating the cycle anew. This remarkable journey underscores the adaptability and resilience of the salmon as it navigates between different ecosystems.