When most people think of salmon, they automatically think of the Coho salmon. However, there is another type of salmon that is just as popular and often confused with the Coho – Chinook salmon. While both types of fish are delicious and provide many health benefits, there are some key differences between them that you should know before you head to the grocery store or market. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at these differences and help you determine which type of salmon is best for you.
What is Coho Salmon?
Coho salmon is a species of fish that is part of the Salmonidae family. Coho salmon are also known as silver salmon due to their physical appearance. Coho salmon is an anadromous species of fish, meaning that they live in the ocean but spawn in freshwater rivers and streams. Coho salmon are found in the northern Pacific Ocean, from Korea and Russia all the way to California. Coho salmon typically weigh between 4 and 8 pounds and can grow up to a length of 30 inches. Coho salmon have a lifespan of 3-5 years and reach sexual maturity at 2-4 years old. Coho salmon are an important food source for humans, as well as for animals such as bears, eagles, and seals. Coho salmon are also a popular sport fish, due to their impressive size and strength.
What is Chinook Salmon?
Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) is the largest species of Pacific salmon. Chinook salmon can weigh up to 100 pounds, though most are considerably smaller. Chinook salmon are anadromous, meaning they live in salt water but return to freshwater to spawn. Chinook salmon are found in the North Pacific Ocean and in rivers that flow into the ocean, from Alaska to central California. The Chinook salmon is also known as king salmon, blackmouth salmon, spring salmon, and Tyee salmon. Chinook salmon are important to commercial and sport fisheries and are popular as a food fish. Salmon are an important food source for bears, eagles, and other animals. Chinook salmon are also an important part of the diet of some First Nations people in British Columbia and Alaska.
Difference between Coho and Chinook Salmon
Coho and Chinook salmon are two of the most popular types of salmon. Coho salmon are smaller, with an average size of 14-16 inches. They have a silver body with black spots on their back and fins. Chinook salmon are larger, with an average size of 24-28 inches. They have a dark green body with black spots on their back and fins. Coho salmon spawn in freshwater rivers and streams. Chinook salmon spawn in saltwater oceans. Coho salmon are found in the Pacific Northwest of North America, while Chinook salmon are found in the Gulf of Alaska. Coho salmon live for 2-3 years, while Chinook salmon live for 4-6 years. Coho salmon are less fatty than Chinook salmon and have a milder flavor. Chinook salmon are fattier than Coho salmon and have a stronger flavor. Coho salmon are usually grilled or baked, while Chinook salmon are usually smoked or canned.
Conclusion
Coho and Chinook salmon are both Pacific salmon that are found in North America. They are distinguished by their coloration, body shape, and size. The two types of salmon have different spawning habits and occupy different parts of the ocean. Salmon fishing is a popular sport in North America, and the catch can be used for food or sold commercially.