To study the movement patterns of the Formosan Landlocked salmon (Oncorhynchus masou formosanus) to facilitate conservation of the species, rainbow trout were used as test animals and a location communicator was attached to their bodies. To prevent this alien species escaping and threatening native species five gates were installed in the feeding pond and the wild population’s number was regularly checked. In early November the trout had all been removed.

The salmon gene in the Formosan Landlocked Salmon Ecological Center is a very important place for species protection. Regular sterilization of the rearing equipment is carried out and the rearing pond water release pipe is subject to a number of disinfecting steps. Experts have also been invited to participate in the population restoration release and control plans as consultants.

The salmon reach maturity at two years. Before the breeding season in October and November the fish develop white spots. This is a natural phenomenon and not the effect of pollution.

In the future non invasive species will be chosen as the test animal and similar research assessed carefully before being carried out to protect a the Formosan landlocked salmon, a “national treasure” fish.

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Shei-pa National Park Headquarters