The Welsh Torgoch (Salvelinus alpinus): a short review of its distribution and ecology

Abstract

Abstract – The Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus (L.), or Torgoch (‘red belly’) in Welsh, is found in seven lakes in North Wales comprising three native populations (Bodlyn, Cwellyn and Padarn) and four translocated populations (Cowlyd, Diwaunedd, Dulyn and Ffynnon Llugwy). The Welsh charr populations have not been studied much, but the available data are summarised in this short review. Analysis of stomach contents of the native charr populations shows that they are planktivores feeding mainly on cladocerans and copepods. Adult fish attain a size of 14–24 cm (fork length) and fecundity is low (100–800 eggs per female). The available growth data reveal that Welsh charr grow at a similar rate and attain a size similar to most other planktivorous charr populations that have been studied in the UK. Genetic studies using allozymes indicate that the three native populations are distinct from each other.