Biological characteristics and population status of anadromous salmon in southeast Alaska.

Abstract

Populations of Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) in southeast Alaska and adjacent areas of British Columbia and the Yukon Territory show great variation in biological characteristics. An introduction presents goals and methods common to the series of reviews of regional salmon diversity presented in the five subsequent chapters. Our primary goals were to (1) describe patterns of intraspecific variation and identify specific populations that were outliers from prevailing patterns, and (2) evaluate escapement trends and identify potential risk factors confronting salmon populations. We compiled stock-specific information primarily from management research conducted by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. We used mainly exploratory and descriptive statistical procedures to examine patterns of intraspecific variation, and linear regression to evaluate escapement trends. We describe the most pervasive limitations of available data and recommend cautious evaluation of our results. These reviews nonetheless provide insight into the ecological and evolutionary ramifications of intraspecific variation for managing diversity and sustaining productivity of salmon resources.

Citation

Halupka, Karl C.; Bryant, Mason D.; Willson, Mary F.; Everest, Fred H. 2000. Biological characteristics and population status of anadromous salmon in southeast Alaska. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-468. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 255 p