The diagram illustrates the development of salmon from an egg throughout their lifecycle. Overall, there are three main phases in the life of the fish, beginning as an egg, transitioning to fry, then smolt, and finally developing into adult salmon.
In the first stage, salmon start their life as eggs. They are nestled among small stones and reeds in the upper river, where they remain for approximately 5 to 6 months. After this period, they hatch into fry, typically measuring between 3 to 8 centimeters. At this stage, they exhibit a blue color, a small body, and a tail.
As they grow, the fry move to the lower river, which is fast-flowing. This environment allows them to consume food that supports their growth for approximately 4 years. During this time, they grow larger, increasing in size from 12 to 15 centimeters. The color of the smolt changes to dark blue, and their tails become longer.
After spending five years in the open sea, the salmon reach the final stage of their lifecycle and become adult salmon. Once they complete all these stages, the lifecycle begins again.