What do salmon eat when spawning?

Salmon don't actually eat anything when they're spawning. They're focused entirely on reproduction and their bodies are essentially shutting down their digestive systems.

Here's why:

* Energy conservation: Spawning is incredibly energy-intensive. Salmon travel long distances upstream, fight currents, and engage in complex courtship rituals. All of this requires a lot of energy, which they've stored up during their time at sea.

* Focus on reproduction: Their bodies are completely focused on getting their eggs and sperm released. They don't need to expend energy on digestion.

* Digestive system changes: The digestive system of spawning salmon actually shrinks and becomes less functional. This is part of the process of sacrificing their bodies for the next generation.

So, while salmon may be active and energetic during spawning, they are essentially fasting and relying on their stored fat reserves for energy.