The functional relationship between peak spring floods and survival and growth of juvenile Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) and Brown Trout (Salmo trutta)

Abstract

1.The effects of high spring floods on survival and growth of juvenile Atlantic Salmon,Salmo salar,and Brown Trout,Salmo trutta, are explored, using data from a long‐term study in the River Saltdalselv, northern Norway. The flow regime in this river is typical for northern rivers.2.There was considerable variation in year class strength of both species.3.Mortality of Atlantic Salmon increased significantly in years with high discharge during the alevin stage as well as the first week after emergence. High discharge during the egg stage and more than 1 week after emergence seemed to be of minor importance. Water temperature at emergence was rather high (average 10·5 °C) and did not significantly affect year class strength.4.Brown Trout emerged earlier than Atlantic Salmon at an average water temperature of 8·2 °C. Highest mortality was observed in years with low water temperatures at emergence as well as high discharge during the alevin stage.5.For 1‐year‐old fish or older, the size of the spring peak flood did not influence mortality significantly.6.Growth of Atlantic Salmon parr was diminished in years with a high peak spring flood. A similar effect on Brown Trout was not detected.