Definition

Referring to fish that travel from the ocean to freshwater rivers to reproduce.

Example

Salmon are anadromous fish that return to their birthplace to spawn.

Conversation

Did you know that some fish are anadromous?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they migrate up rivers from the sea to breed in fresh water.

That's fascinating! I had no idea fish did that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anadromous → It is formed from "ana-" (meaning up) and "dromos" (meaning running or course). The word describes fish that run up rivers from the sea to spawn, indicating their migratory behavior of moving upwards.

Memory Tip

Think of fish that 'run up' ('ana-') rivers to spawn, which helps you remember that 'anadromous' refers to this upward migration.

Visually Confused Words