Pink salmon distribution in Sweden: The calm before the storm?

Pink salmon distribution has recently expanded substantially across northern Europe. On the Swedish west coast, relatively few pink salmon have been observed to date; nonetheless, a notable rise in 2021 (70 observations). However, with no national monitoring together with a ceased Atlantic salmon commercial fishery, there is little opportunity to understand the extent of the spread in this region. Here, we present the current data and address the need for future monitoring and research in order to understand the potential impacts of this invasive species in Sweden's aquatic ecosystems.

Automated summary

The distribution of pink salmon has expanded significantly in northern Europe, including the Swedish west coast. However, due to a lack of national monitoring and a ceased Atlantic salmon commercial fishery, the extent of the spread in this region remains unclear. Future monitoring and research are needed to understand the potential impacts of this invasive species on Sweden's aquatic ecosystems.