Origin and Use of Oregon Rainbow Trout Brood Stocks

Abstract

A historical analysis of Oregon's brood stocks of rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) revealed six distinct strains now in use within the state. Three spawn in spring, and three in fall. At least four strains originated from McCloud River trout, which have been transferred around the country and genetically altered over the past 100 years. Current use of these strains includes special applications, such as the use of Ceratomyxa shasta-resistant Deschutes River rainbow trout in areas with bacterial disease problems, Eagle Lake trout in alkaline waters, and Cape Cod trout in waters where it is essential that downstream movements be limited.