Steelhead

Steelhead Life History

Life cycle of Salmon and Steelhead

Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in the Monterey Bay Region are listed as "Threatened" under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and occupy many rivers and streams flowing into the Monterey Bay. O. mykiss are distinct among salmonid species because the are both facultativly anadromous and iteroparous. Anadromous fish are those that spend most of their life in the ocean and spawn in freshwater. Iteroparous fish are that can reproduce multiple times in their life. O. mykiss also have populations which reside in freshwater and are called rainbow trout. . The photo to the right represents the life cycle of salmon and steelhead.

Disclaimer

This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of CSUMB, its staff, or students.