Species profiles: life histories and environmental requirements of coastal fishes and invertebrates (Pacific Northwest)-sea-run cutthroat trout

Species profiles are literature summaries of the taxonomy, morphology, range, life history, and environmental requirements of coastal aquatic species. They are designed to assist with environmental impact assessments. The sea-run cutthroat trout (Salmo clarki clarki) is anadromous and is found in most coastal streams from Southeast Alaska to Northern California. A thriving sport fishery exists both in these freshwater streams and in protected marine waters. Many of the small streams containing cutthroat trout can be adversely altered by poor timber operations. Optimum temperature for incubating is 10 to 11 /degree/C and eggs hatch in 28-40 days. Optimum temperature for juveniles is 15/degree/C and ability to swim is lost at about 28/degree/C. Adults prefer fairly slow-moving water with plenty of cover. Spawning occurs in small diameter gravel. Like steelhead trout, they may return from saltwater to spawn several times. 102 refs., 4 figs.