zalm

Zalm is the common Dutch name for several large, anadromous fish in the family Salmonidae. The term most often refers to the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and the five species of Pacific salmon in the genus Oncorhynchus (chinook, coho, sockeye, pink, and chum). True salmon share a distinctive life cycle in which mature adults migrate from the ocean into freshwater to spawn, after which some individuals die while others return to the sea. The label is also used for the flesh of these species in culinary contexts.

Habitat and biology: Wild salmon inhabit cool northern oceans and river systems. Adults travel upstream to spawning grounds, sometimes returning to the exact stream where they were born. After spawning, many die, but some may survive to migrate again. Juveniles spend varying lengths of time in freshwater before migrating to the sea. Diet consists of small fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic invertebrates; color of the flesh is due to carotenoids such as astaxanthin.

Human use and conservation: Zalm is a major commercial fishery resource. Global supply is dominated by aquaculture, particularly of Atlantic salmon, while wild fisheries target several species in the North Pacific and North Atlantic. Practices include net-pen farming near coastlines and hatchery programs. Environmental concerns include escapes that can alter wild gene pools, disease and parasite transfer, and localized pollution. Management and certification schemes aim to promote sustainable harvesting. Nutritionally, salmon are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids and are widely consumed as fillets, smoked products, or cured preparations.