Carotenoid pigment profiles distinguish anadromous and nonanadromous brown trout (<i>Salmo trutta</i>)

Abstract

Carotenoid pigment profiles were determined in muscle tissue extracts of anadromous and nonanadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta). In nonanadromous fish, zeaxanthin, lutein, astaxanthin, canthaxanthin, and two unidentified pigments were detected in some or all individuals. In anadromous fish, only astaxanthin and lutein were detected. On the basis of carotenoid pigment profiles, it was possible to distinguish the anadromous and nonanadromous individuals examined in this study with complete accuracy.