Common Names
English: Alakır Trout
Turkish: Alakır Alası
Size
Average Size: 15-25 cm
Maximum Size: Up to 30 cm
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Salmoniformes
Family: Salmonidae
Genus: Salmo
Species: Salmo kottelati
Appearance
General body color greenish to silvery in life.
7–9 parr marks along the lateral line.
Four dark bands on the flank are absent in both sexes.
Black ocellated spots are few, present only on the upper part of the flank in individuals smaller than 160 mm SL. In larger individuals, both males and females have numerous black spots located on the back and middle and upper parts of the flank.
Red spots are few to numerous, scattered on the median and half of the lower and upper parts of the flank.
Distinguishing Features: Combination of the above characteristics, particularly the unique spot patterns and morphometric measurements. Endemic to the Alakır River.
Conservation Status:
Critically Endangered (CE)
Endemic and strictly protected species.
Critically endangered due to its limited distribution and threats to its habitat.
Information regarding a specific IUCN redlist status is difficult to locate, but it is known to be under strict local protection.
The Alakır Trout, Salmo kottelati, is a unique subspecies of brown trout native to the headwater streams of the Alakır River, located to the west of Antalya. These trout thrive in the cool, clear waters of plunge pools and cascades, where they find refuge from predators and environmental pressures.
However, their distribution is limited due to overfishing and habitat degradation in larger sections of the drainage. In the smaller, more secluded streams, local communities have taken an active role in protecting the Alakır Trout, recognizing its ecological significance and the need to conserve its dwindling populations.
Closely related to Mediterranean and Adriatic trout species, the Alakır Trout is primarily found in the pristine headwaters northwest of Antalya. Though their range is restricted to these small, isolated streams, they remain relatively abundant in the areas they inhabit, thanks to vigilant conservation efforts by locals.
Regulations and Ban
Strictly protected species. Fishing for or targeting this species is completely prohibited.
Heavy penalties apply to those who violate this protection. Check the most current Turkish inland fisheries regulations for specific details.
Recreational Fishing
Not a target species for recreational fishing.
Any accidental catches must be released immediately and with minimal harm.
It is crucial to be aware of and respect the protected status of this species.
Safety: Be aware of river currents and slippery rocks when fishing in its habitat. There may be a danger of flooding during the rainy season.
Is Alakır Trout a Game Fish?
No.
Strictly protected and prohibited from being targeted.
Habitat and Distribution
Found exclusively in the Alakır River system in Antalya, Türkiye (Mediterranean basin).
Prefers clear, cold, flowing waters with rocky or gravel substrates.
Distribution: Alakır River, Antalya, Türkiye.
Ecological Role
Predatory fish, feeding on aquatic insects and small invertebrates.
Diet: Aquatic insects, small crustaceans, and other small aquatic organisms.
Quick Facts
| Common Names (English) | Common Names (Turkish) | Size | Habitat | Conservation Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alakır Trout | Alakır Alası | 15-30 cm | Freshwater Rivers and Streams | Critically Endangered (CE) |
