Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

smolt

noun

/smɒlt/

Definition

A young salmon that has transitioned from freshwater to saltwater.

Examples

After spending several months in the river, the salmon will become a smolt and begin its journey to the ocean.
In spring, the smolt are often seen swimming downstream in schools.
Monitoring the health of smolt populations is essential for sustainable fisheries management.

Meaning

The term ‘smolt’ refers to a stage in the life cycle of salmon. During this stage, young salmon adapt from living in freshwater streams to the saline environment of the ocean, preparing for their life at sea.