Why Do Salmon Die After They Have Spawned?

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While migrating upriver, salmon reduce their feeding activity and use up most of their energy when swimming against the strong current.

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Once the fish reach the spawning grounds, they will use their remaining energy to spawn.

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After the act of spawning is done, the salmon's body will deteriorate at a fast rate and eventually shut down completely.

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This type of behavior is extremely rare among fish. It is called semelparity, a truly extreme mode of reproduction.

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Some post-spawn salmon will die immediately after spawning, while others can survive for days or even weeks before their bodies finally give up on them.

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The salmon's decomposing bodies are taken care of by predators and provide important nutriets to the river system. 

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Get even more facts about  the salmon's fascinating life cycle via the link below!

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