A young salmon, especially in its first year, characterized by distinctive dark vertical marks on its sides. The juvenile stage between fry and smolt in salmon development.
From Scots and Northern English dialect, possibly related to 'bar' referring to the distinctive barred markings on young salmon. The term has been used by fishermen and naturalists since at least the 16th century.
Parr represent one of nature's most remarkable transformations - these small, camouflaged freshwater fish will eventually undergo complete physiological changes to become ocean-going salmon. The distinctive 'parr marks' that give them their name actually serve as camouflage against stream beds, disappearing only when the fish are ready for their marine adventure.
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