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Physical Specifications of a Fish Ladder
Every barrier is unique, therefore each fish ladder design is approached differently. Factors that need to be considered are ladder entrance location, resting areas and the stream current. If the current is too weak, it won't attract the fish to the entrance.
Different Ladders for Different Species
Each fish species has different requirements. Salmon and trout are powerful swimmers and can defeat strong currents, while other fish species, such as northern pike, can't. The drop between pools is also species dependent, and some won't be able to make the big jump that will take them to the next pool.
Further Considerations
Sometimes the ladders are too long, leaving the fish exhausted and unable to reach their breeding grounds. But even if they reach their destination and breed, the young fish that travel downstream may become injured if they are caught in dam turbines. Some built-in protection around the turbines is needed for the migrating cycle to continue.