Dynamics of juvenile salmon and forage fishes in nearshore kelp forests

North-east Pacific juvenile salmon and forage fishes, including the endangered species Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), coho kisutch), chum keta), pink gorbuscha), fishes of herring (Clupea pallasi), surf smelt (Hypomesus pretiosus), sand lance (Ammodytes hexapterus), utilize kelp environments. Many details forest ecosystem function for these are lacking. Kelp forests, salmon, declining precipitously as global climate shifts developments along coastal shorelines expand. It is therefore essential to understand species. Analysis 7 years snorkelling survey videos indicates that both use forests throughout outmigration season, their interactions occur in small large groups, primarily outer edge beds. Over course outmigration, encounter first, followed by herring. The majority intermingling, which a subset proceed predation, on important develop implement specific fishery habitat conservation measures preserve restore functions. Long-term research has shown intact, conserved nearshore habitats better ecologically than restored habitats, individual can differently salmon. Therefore, plans should be developed conserve wild documented provide protecting them from various development impacts, dredging, filling, water-quality decline. Coastal restoration often only successful when ecosystem-limiting factors result loss resolved. restoration, therefore, prioritized regions known high historical importance, with actions focused correcting limiting caused and/or degradation.