Review of Major and Minor Pathogens of Adult Pacific Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) in Freshwater in the Pacific Northwest of North America
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This comprehensive review examines pathogens affecting adult anadromous Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) during their terminal freshwater migration and spawning across populations from California through Alaska, including Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. We systematically reviewed selected pathogens based on their significance to adult salmon health or role in epizootiology, categorizing them by their impact on prespawn mortality (PSM), disease severity, and maternal or ‘egg-associated’ transmission risks to progeny. Our analysis encompasses macroparasites, microparasites, bacteria, and viruses affecting anadromous Pink (O. gorbuscha), Chum (O. keta), Coho (O. kisutch), Sockeye (O. nerka), and Chinook Salmon (O. tshawytscha) and Steelhead Trout (O. mykiss), integrating extensive literature analysis with direct field observations and case studies from representative geographic regions. Understanding pathogen impacts during the spawning life stage is crucial for salmon population sustainability, as the unique semelparous nature of Pacific salmon makes this terminal phase critical for reproductive success and the continuation of these ecologically, economically, and culturally vital species.
Source: Pathogens
Language: English
Subfield: Immunology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,654
Funders: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, Syracuse University, State University of New York, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, U.S. Geological Survey, Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Fisheries and Oceans Canada
OpenAlex ID: W7123469364