Oregon's Annual Fish Necropsy Aids in Forecasting Salmon Returns
At the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, Oregon, scientists, students, and volunteers are conducting a mass fish necropsy to study juvenile salmon. This annual event, organized by Oregon State University and the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, helps researchers understand how young salmon are faring in the ocean. By examining thousands of fish, scientists gather data on growth patterns, ocean entry, and survival rates. The necropsy provides valuable insights into salmon populations, which have been affected by environmental changes and human activities.