Oncorhynchus keta
Oncorhynchus keta, commonly known as the chum salmon, is a species of Pacific salmon found in the North Pacific Ocean and its tributaries. They are recognized for their distinctive greenish-blue back and silvery sides, which turn a vibrant maroon during spawning. Chum salmon typically weigh between 8 to 15 pounds and can grow up to 36 inches in length.
Chum salmon are anadromous, meaning they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean, and return to freshwater to spawn. They primarily feed on zooplankton and small fish during their ocean phase. This species plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, serving as a food source for various predators, including bears and eagles.