Formosan landlocked salmon reestablishes population in central Taiwan creek

According to the Shei-Pa National Park Headquarters, a survey of the upper Sijielan Creek recorded 117 adult Formosan landlocked salmon, indicating a survival rate close to 50 percent after a helicopter-aided release of 240 juveniles in September 2025. Researchers trekked from Huanshan Village, waded upstream and snorkeled a 600-meter stretch, observing courtship and pairing, signs that the salmon may spawn naturally by November.

The fish, now nearly two years old, display distinct male and female secondary sexual characteristics. Sijielan Creek had previously resisted reintroduction attempts due to habitat loss, but natural erosion after a downstream dam breach restored the deep pools and gravel beds the species needs. This achievement follows successful restorations in Qijiawan, Hehuan, Nanhu and Luoyewei creeks, completing a critical part of the species' recovery across the Dajia River basin. Officials will continue monitoring juvenile emergence and flood resilience, with comprehensive survey results due by year-end.