I an unaware of any science/data on correlating tail size to migration distance. However, I would expect that tail size would be correlated to body size/length. Swimming speeds are correlated to fork lengths of an individual fish and certain species are on average - larger than others.
So, one would expect to observe a relationship between tail size and swimming speeds within a specific grouping of fish - with a specific type of tail. Average swimming speeds would influence migratory distances covered over a certain period of time.
So, in the same period of time - within that group - certain larger species would likely cover larger distances (or be able to - IF they do), but that's not necessarily because they have larger tails. Tuna and mackerels have a much smaller tail and smaller tail/size ratio - but they cover vast distances in the ocean, too. Smaller tails are actually more efficient for species that swim fast. https://dtmag.com/thelibrary/underwater-propulsion-a-tale-of-tails/
How much time they have to travel would also be particularly relevant wrt pink salmon life histories - they only have 2 years to get 'er done - other Pacific salmon species have a longer time to travel and grow - and could potentially travel farther with increased time.
It's the body length that affects swimming speed and potential for influencing migration distance; while weight/size drives energy reserves when not eating. The "not eating" part is particularly relevant when traveling upstream to spawn. Less so when still feeding in the ocean.
So, one would expect to observe a relationship between tail size and swimming speeds within a specific grouping of fish - with a specific type of tail. Average swimming speeds would influence migratory distances covered over a certain period of time.
So, in the same period of time - within that group - certain larger species would likely cover larger distances (or be able to - IF they do), but that's not necessarily because they have larger tails. Tuna and mackerels have a much smaller tail and smaller tail/size ratio - but they cover vast distances in the ocean, too. Smaller tails are actually more efficient for species that swim fast. https://dtmag.com/thelibrary/underwater-propulsion-a-tale-of-tails/
How much time they have to travel would also be particularly relevant wrt pink salmon life histories - they only have 2 years to get 'er done - other Pacific salmon species have a longer time to travel and grow - and could potentially travel farther with increased time.
It's the body length that affects swimming speed and potential for influencing migration distance; while weight/size drives energy reserves when not eating. The "not eating" part is particularly relevant when traveling upstream to spawn. Less so when still feeding in the ocean.
Last edited:
