Masou and Coho Salmon in the Khabarovsk Territory, Russian Federation

Masou and coho salmon inhabit the coast of the Khabarovsk Krai, Russian Federation. Masou distribution extends from the Amur River to mainland coastal rivers of the Japan Sea to the south. The largest populations of masou reproduce in the Tumnin, Koppi and Botchi Rivers, and further south to the Samarga River and neighboring rivers in Primorye Territory. The most common age class of masou are 2.1+  (representing 75%). The largest populations of coho salmon reproduce in Okhota, Urak and Inya Rivers along the coast of Sea of Okhotsk.  The proportion of coho aged 1.1+ is 75% in the north, and increases to 100% in the south.. These two species co-occur in a number of river systems along the Tatar Strait . Masou is by far the dominant species (making up 99.99% of the masou and coho salmon total). Reproduction of coho salmon (single juveniles) was observed only up to 45 degrees north latitude. Since 1989 masou was listed as endangered in the Red Book of the Khabarovsk Territory. This status has not afforded any protection or funding, and has complicated research and monitoring efforts. There are a number of outstanding threats to these species, including commercial bycatch and illegal fishing.