What happens to salmon eggs in winter?

In winter, salmon eggs typically remain buried in gravel nests called redds, where they are protected from cold temperatures and predators. The eggs enter a dormant state, relying on the surrounding water to maintain a stable temperature and provide oxygen. As water temperatures gradually rise in spring, the eggs begin to hatch, releasing alevins that continue to develop in the protection of the gravel until they are ready to swim freely. This process is crucial for the survival of the next generation of salmon.