Fin's Fish Guide
The Humpback (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 76 cm.
Description
The pink salmon is the smallest and most abundant Pacific salmon of the family Salmonidae from the northern Pacific. The species grows to about 76 cm and has a silvery sea body with large black spots on the back and tail; spawning males develop a conspicuous hump on the back and hooked jaws. It is anadromous: it lives in the sea and after about two years runs up coastal streams to spawn, after which all individuals die (semelparity). As a predator it feeds at sea on plankton, small fishes and crustaceans. The pink salmon is an extremely important commercial fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Humpback?
The Humpback has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Spawning males with a dorsal hump and hooked jaws; anadromous and semelparous (dies after spawning).
Where does the Humpback live?
The Humpback lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North Pacific; anadromous between sea and coastal streams.
How big does the Humpback get?
The Humpback grows to a maximum of about 76 cm. On average the species is around 51 cm.
Is the Humpback dangerous to humans?
No, the Humpback is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Humpback edible?
Yes, the Humpback 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 Humpback?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Humpback is one of 12,519 species in the app.