Moving Forward

Fin Thrust Fins give the salmon control over its movements by directing thrust, supplying lift and acting as brakes. Pectoral, pelvic, dorsal and anal fins control pitch and roll, while the extra-powerful caudal (tail) fin controls both thrust and direction.

Streamlined Shape The skeleton of the salmon, as in all fish, is the most complex of all vertebrates. The skull acts as a stabilizer, while the vertebral column acts as a series of levers that allow the movement of the fish. The streamlined shape of the salmon minimizes drag in the water, while the slimy coating on its scales maintains a smooth flow of water past its body.

Built for Speed Salmon can maintain a swimming speed of almost 50 kilometres per hour, five times the speed of pike, cod and mackerel, and equal to the speed of a small tuna almost three times its length. The salmon has a comparatively high velocity to length ratio, due largely to the strength of its powerful tail fin.