Fin's Fish Guide
The Cherry salmon (Oncorhynchus masou) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 79 cm.
Description
The masu or cherry salmon (Oncorhynchus masou) is an Asian Pacific salmon of the family Salmonidae from the northwestern Pacific. The species occurs in two forms: a river form that stays in headwaters, defends a territory and feeds mainly on insects, small crustaceans and fishes, and a sea-run form that migrates downstream in schools to the sea, where it feeds on small fishes and pelagic crustaceans. Spawning fish often develop handsome red hues. The species reaches almost 80 cm, is a valued sport and food fish, but is considered Endangered (EN) owing to habitat loss and fishing.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cherry salmon?
The Cherry salmon has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Two forms (river-migrating and sea-migrating); spawning animals develop red tints; endangered (EN).
Where does the Cherry salmon live?
The Cherry salmon lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Rivers and coastal sea of the northwest Pacific.
How big does the Cherry salmon get?
The Cherry salmon grows to a maximum of about 79 cm.
Is the Cherry salmon dangerous to humans?
No, the Cherry salmon is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Cherry salmon edible?
Yes, the Cherry salmon is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oncorhynchus
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the Cherry salmon?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cherry salmon is one of 12,519 species in the app.