FRAGILE: HANDLE WITH CARE

Despite their strength and resilience, Atlantic salmon are a species in decline—fragile in ways not immediately visible. This photo captures the moment of releasing a wild Atlantic salmon on the Margaree River in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, after measuring its length, body fat percentage, and fitting it with a radio-tag (visible near its dorsal fin). Declines in Atlantic salmon numbers in recent decades are linked to changing ocean conditions, with lower prey abundance and quality likely playing a role. This may leave adult salmon with reduced energy reserves, which are crucial for their migration and spawning success. Our research aims to assess the energy reserves of adult Atlantic salmon returning to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick rivers. We use a device called a fish fat meter to measure body fat and radio-tags to track their movements, helping us understand where they spawn and whether energy reserves affect their ability to reach the most productive spawning grounds. By uncovering these connections, we hope to guide conservation efforts and contribute to more effective stock assessments.