River Erriff sea trout Salmo trutta revisited: Reply to O'Farrell (2025)

Gargan et al. (2016; Aquacult Environ Interact 8:675-689) used a time series of 15 life history descriptors to demonstrate that the population dynamics of a wild sea trout population could change markedly over a short time period. O’Farrell (2025; Aquacult Environ Interact 17:21-26) subsequently noted certain errors in the data used in Gargan et al. (2016) and presented a new analysis, inferring that the overall findings of Gargan et al. (2016) might be compromised. Here, we provide comprehensive responses to each of the data issues raised by O’Farrell (2025) and include a brief additional analysis. We conclude that the results and interpretation of Gargan et al. (2016) remain supported.