Although many factors may be responsible for the declines in anadromous salmonid populations, this circumstance is commonly linked to the oceanic and estuarine conditions present during the smolt life cycle phase, which remains unstudied compared to riverine life phases. Upon saltwater entry, salmonids display a wide range of growth and survival rates and display a variety of movement and migratory behaviors, both tied to ocean and estuary productivity which influences the foraging conditions these  individuals encounter across space and time.

 

These sessions will feature innovative and novel studies focused on understanding the ocean and estuary life cycle phase of Pacific salmonids, including: (1). An Overview of Seascape Ecology and Current Events; (2). Movement and Migration; (3). Survival and Growth; and (4). Foraging Conditions influenced by the California Current.