<i>S</i><i>almo emireae</i> (Salmoniformes, Salmonidae), a new trout species from the Lake Balık, northeastern Turkey

Trout species of the genus Salmo in Eastern Anatolia offer valuable insights into the evolution and diversity of freshwater fishes in the Caspian Sea basin. In the present study, we describe a new trout species, Salmo emireae sp. nov., from Lake Bal & imath;k in northeastern Turkey, based on combined morphological and mitochondrial (cytochrome b) data. Phylogenetic analyses using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods revealed that S. emireae belongs to the Danubian lineage and forms a well-supported monophyletic clade, closely related to S. ischchan, S. aestivalis, and S. gegarkuni from Lake Sevan. Moreover, unique morphological traits-by a shorter head, a slenderer caudal peduncle, a shorter maxilla, and a shorter mouth gape-distinguish S. emireae from its congeners. Given its limited distribution and pressure from overfishing, S. emireae may be considered endemic and potentially vulnerable. Our findings highlight the need for further taxonomic and conservation studies on endemic trout species in the region. The study provides a detailed diagnosis, morphometric description, distribution map for the new species, and an extensive phylogeny for genus Salmo, contributing to the growing biodiversity knowledge of Anatolian trout. The new species is endemic to a single, isolated lake that is subject to regular commercial fishing and recent drought-related habitat changes. These pressures, together with its restricted range, make S. emireae potentially vulnerable and of conservation concern.