SOS Salmon: The Call for Help for our Rivers and Oceans
Introduction :
Salmon are a fascinating migratory species, travelling thousands of kilometres to reach their breeding grounds. Yet despite their resilience and ecological importance, wild salmon populations are in decline. Over the past few decades, the causes of this decline have multiplied, putting this iconic species of marine and river ecosystems at risk. In this article, we will explore the threats to salmon and discuss the actions we can take to protect them.
Salmon: A Nature Traveler
Salmon, a unique migratory fish, are known for their exceptional life cycle. Born in a river, they migrate to the sea, where they spend several years before returning to the river of their birth to reproduce. This journey, often long and perilous, makes them a species particularly vulnerable to environmental disturbances.
The different species of salmon
There are several species of salmon, including Atlantic salmon and Pacific salmon. Each species has specific migration and reproduction characteristics, but all face the same dangers, whether it is overexploitation, pollution, or climate change.
(Atlantic salmon)
(Pacific salmon)
Major Threats to Salmon
1. Overexploitation by Overfishing
One of the biggest threats to wild salmon is overfishing. Over the years, salmon populations have been taken at a rate far faster than their natural ability to reproduce.
• Historical overexploitation : The overexploitation of salmon, particularly in Europe, is a major cause of their decline. In France, this intensive fishing has particularly affected Atlantic salmon.
• Alarming statistics : According to estimates, the Atlantic salmon population has been halved in just 20 years.
• The impact of growing demand : With the high demand for salmon in the global market, commercial fishing continues to increase. Today, approximately 93% of Atlantic salmon is produced through farming, while 88% of Pacific salmon consumed comes from fishing.
2. Marine Pollution and Contamination by Pollutants
Marine pollution, particularly in the northern hemisphere, has dramatic consequences for salmon. Pollutants such as mercury, PCBs and pesticides accumulate in the salmon's bodies, affecting their health and ability to reproduce.
• The impact of pollutants : Salmon, due to their fatty nature, accumulate toxic substances in their fat. During their migrations, these toxins are released into their bodies, creating risks of internal poisoning.
• Chemical pollution in the oceans : Products such as PCBs, heavy metals and pesticides from agriculture or industry end up in the seas and directly affect marine wildlife, including salmon.
3. Food Scarcity
Young salmon, before feeding on fish, rely on terrestrial invertebrates and insects. However, these small creatures are in decline due to the use of insecticides and the fragmentation of natural habitats.
• Invertebrates in decline : The Mayfly, one of the main food sources for juvenile salmon, is experiencing a significant decline.
• The impact of insecticides : The massive use of insecticides disrupts the food chain and harms the availability of prey for young salmon.
4. Climate Change
Warming of fresh and marine waters is significantly affecting salmon. Optimal temperatures for salmon migration are between 7.5°C and 13.5°C, but climate change is causing variations that disrupt their life cycle.
• Rising water temperatures : Water temperatures that are too high prevent salmon from migrating, and can lead to mass die-offs.
• The impact of anoxia : Warming waters lead to a decrease in oxygen content, creating increasingly difficult conditions for salmon.
The Dangers of Industrial Salmon Farming
Industrial salmon farming also poses risks to wild populations. Farmed fish often live in poor conditions, leading to the spread of diseases and parasites.
(Facilities for salmon farming in Chile)
Link to the MSC website - Articles on the fight against overfishing: https://www.msc.org/fr
• Risks for wild populations : Farmed fish, often sick and carrying parasites such as sea lice, can contaminate wild salmon.
• Chemical treatments in fish farming : Antibiotics and pesticides used in farming can have an impact on the environment and the health of salmon.
River Management and Salmon Migration
Human infrastructure such as dams and micro-power plants slow or prevent salmon migration, threatening the regeneration of the species.
• Solutions to restore rivers : Initiatives are being put in place to facilitate salmon migration, but many challenges remain.
(Fish pass at the Kembs hydroelectric power station in France)
What Can We Do to Save the Salmon?
1. Awareness and Collective Action
Protecting salmon begins with raising awareness of the importance of this species and the dangers it faces. Each of us can play a role by supporting ecological initiatives and practicing responsible consumption.
• Support local actions : Participate in projects to restore natural salmon habitats and support conservation organizations.
Link to WWF: www.wwf.fr
2. Adopt Responsible Consumption
Choosing salmon from sustainable sources is essential to reduce pressure on wild populations. Favoring certification labels such as MSC helps ensure responsible fishing.
• Practice responsible fishing : Learn about good fishing practices and support initiatives for environmentally friendly fishing.
(Official MSC label logo)
Conclusion: Let’s Act Together to Save the Salmon
Urgent action is needed to protect salmon, a key species in our marine and river ecosystems. Every action counts, from supporting conservation initiatives to choosing responsible products. Together, we can turn the tide and allow salmon to continue their journey across the world’s seas and rivers.
