Physiology/Endocrinology

Spatial Scales of Homing Project Title Spatial Scales of Homing and the Efficacy of Hatchery Acclimation Facilities Description A number of hatchery programs are incorporating the use of satellite acclimation facilities to supplement or repopulate underutilized rivers or streams. The effectiveness of offsite releases from satellite facilities for successful imprinting, minimizing straying and contributing to salmon recovery has not been demonstrated. For salmon that spawn in the wild (both wild and supplementation hatchery fish), the distinction between straying and homing is not always obvious. The choice of spawning location within a watershed involves complex tradeoffs between homing to the natal site, spawning habitat selection and mate choice. The overall goal of this project is to describe the spatial and temporal patterns of homing and spawning by both wild salmon and hatchery-reared salmon released from acclimation facilities and to examine the physiological changes that occur in the olfactory system during the process of imprinting. Specifically, we are examining these phenomena using spring chinook salmon released as part of the Yakima/Klickitat Fisheries Project (YKFP) supplementation program. Results from this project will provide unique insights into the process of homing, straying and spawning site selection, interactions and success of hatchery and wild spawners, and the efficacy of supplementation and acclimation sites in salmon recovery. Co-Principal Investigators Andy Dittman and Don Larsen (Resource Enhancement Utilization Technology Division) Mary Moser (Fish Ecology division) Collaborators Darran May; School of Aquatic and Fishery Science, University of Washington Mark Johnston, David Fast; Yakama Nation Blake Feist; Environmental Conservation Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center Michelle Rub; Conservation Biology Division, Northwest Fisheries Science Center Related Links School of Aquatic and Fishery Science, University of Washington Yakima Klickitat Fisheries Project Physiology/Endocrinology

last modified 01/31/03
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