What stage follows the fry stage in the lifecycle of salmon?

In the lifecycle of salmon, after the fry stage, the next stage is referred to as the parr stage. During this stage, salmon begin to develop distinct characteristics that distinguish them from fry, such as the emergence of vertical bars or markings on their bodies, which helps them blend into their freshwater environment. The parr stage is predominantly focused on growth and development in freshwater before they migrate to saltwater.

The progression from fry to parr is crucial as it represents the young salmon's transition from early life, where they rely on their yolk sac, to a more independent stage, where they start to actively feed and grow larger. This development prepares them for the subsequent smolt stage, which is when they start to adapt physiologically and behaviorally to life in saltwater. Understanding this lifecycle progression is essential in aquaculture practices, particularly in managing the growth, health, and eventual farming of salmon.