Fish Farmer November 2023

Fish Farmer

NOVEMBER 2023

WINNERS C aledonian O ysters scoop top award

SALMON EVOLUTION Hybrid approach is paying off

Offshore

Fish health R oundup of the latest research

What’s holding up the move to the open sea?

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13/11/2023 13:52:23

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04/07/2023 10:58 13/11/2023 09:21:13

WELCOME

Editor’s welcome

L

ast month, I had the great pleasure of attending the Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers’ Conference in Oban.

It was an event with a real sense of community, bringing together people who clearly feel passionate about, and enjoy, what they do – even though the problems faced by the industry are very real. You can read the report from the conference, including details of the Scottish Shellfish Awards winners, starting page 32.

Also in this month’s Fish Farmer, Sandy Neil chronicles the progress made by landbased fish farmer Salmon Evolution, whose hybrid flow-through solution appears to be paying off in terms of fish health. He also reports on the controversy over a proposed yellowtail farm off the coast of California.

We look at the vast potential open to Norway’s aquaculture sector in terms of offshore farming – and also at the uncertainty which, so far, appears to be holding back investment in this sector. Farming offshore profitably will require a high level of capital expenditure and the ability to scale up, but all this will require more clarity on the government’s part when it comes to taxes and regulation.

Our fish health roundup includes an update on studies into salmon heart health, a new set of bacterial kidney disease outbreaks and – as unlikely as it may seem – hopes that adding urea as a supplement to aquafeed might boost health.

Vince McDonagh considers the opposition, which is challenging Iceland’s rapid expansion in aquaculture, and also reports on how the industry is playing its part in helping to tackle marine plastic pollution.

Our shellfish column this month looks at native oyster restoration projects and the ongoing debate about farmed Pacific oysters. We also report on AQUA-FAANG, a Europe-wide project, which has built up an open database of key genetic markers across six key species to help breed faster-growing and more resilient fish.

A recurring theme this time appears to be the importance of collaboration. Together, the industry can take on challenges that would be insurmountable otherwise.

Best wishes Robert Outram

Robert Outram Serving worldwide aquaculture since 1977 Meet the team E ditorial advisory board: S t ev e B r ack en, H er v é M ig aud , J im T r eas ur er , Ch r is M it ch el l and J as o n Cl eav er s mit h E ditor: R o b er t Out r am Designer: A nd r ew B al ah ur a C ommercial Manager: J anice J o h ns t o n o n on fi ar er a a ne co ce Administrator F io na R o b er t s o n ro er on fi ar er a a ne co Publisher: l er enne C over: J u dith and Ang u s V aj k of C aledonian O y sters at the ASSG Sco�sh Shellfish Aw ards, O ban

@fishfarmermagazine @fishfarmermag www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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13/11/2023 13:55:16

CONTENTS

Fish F armer

In the November issue...

British Made Cage Nets In Nylon & Dyneema Predator Exclusion Nets

News

What’s happening in the UK and around the world

Anti Foul Coatings

Processing news

Ropes - Large Stock All Sizes

Comment

Update from the processing sector Martin Jaffa

Floats, Buoys, Cushion Buoys Chain & Chain Weights

Salmon Scotland

Tarpaulins

Shellfish

Tavish Scott

Nicki Holmyard

QUALITY NETS FOR FISH FARMING

Conference report

Sea farming Sandy Neil

874891 Tel: 01253 874891

Breeding and genetics

john@borisnet.co.uk e-mail: john@borisnet.co.uk www.borisnets.co.uk web: www.borisnet.co.uk

Building a Europe-wide genetic database

Iceland

Vince McDonagh

EXTREME

ISOMAX

CONDITIONS

Heavy Duty and COMFORTABLE

F R E N C H Manufacturer Est. 1964

Land based farming

Salmon Evolution claims a successful start

Shrimp focus

ASC’s Improver programme

Environment

Vince McDonagh

Offshore farming

Will Norway realise its offshore potential?

Global finfish production survey Growth predicted after a flat 2023

Fish health & welfare

Roundup of research in fish health

What’s new

Monthly update on innovation and solutions

Aqua source directory

Find all you need for the industry

Industry diary

All the latest aquaculture events, conferences and courses

Opinion Nick Joy

6-22 24-25 26-27 28-29 30-31 32-33 34-35 36-37 38-39 40-41 42-43 44-45 46-49 50-51 52-59 60-61 62-64 65 66

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Contents_Nov 23.indd 4

14/11/2023 14:30:05

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13/11/2023 09:23:50

UNITED KINGDOM NEWS

United Kingdom news

c tti er e t c fir it is scrapping HPMA plan

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THE Scottish Government’s plan to introduce highly protected marine areas (HPMAs) covering a tenth of the country’s waters is dead – and that’s official.

The government has confirmed that, following an extensive consultation on the proposal, the plan for PMAs will not be taken forward.

Under the consultation, PMAs would be zones in which no form of commercial activity is permitted, including all types of fisheries, aquaculture and offshore wind farms.

The goal was to introduce HPMAs for 10% of Scotland’s territorial waters by 0 .

The HPMA plans had been agreed in principle as part of the Bute House Agreement between the Scottish National Party and the Scottish reens, which forms the basis of the current governing coalition in Scotland.

They were widely supported by environmental groups.

When consultation opened in ecember last year, however, there was widespread opposition from marine industries, coastal communities and even from within the S P itself.

The latest announcement, in the form of the government’s response to the consultation, states: “In response to the findings of the consultation in particular to the highly polarised nature of responses, significant concerns on impacts to coastal and island communities, as well as concerns over the proposed 10% target and 2026 timeline for delivery – the Scottish Government will no longer seek to implement the proposed policy as consulted on.

“This means PMAs will not be

introduced in 10% of Scottish seas by 2026 and the draft HPMA Policy Framework and draft Site Selection uidelines, as consulted on, will not be finalised and published.

Furthermore, the Scottish Government no longer intends to progress the establishment of new legal powers for introducing HPMAs in Scottish inshore waters through a Bill in the Scottish Parliament this parliamentary term.”

The response notes that the views received had been “highly polarised” with 55% in favour and against. Many of the pro responses, however, had been part of a single organised campaign. When this is taken out of the equation, the responses were 76% opposed to the HPMA proposals and 0 in favour.

Net Zero Secretary Màiri McAllan – the lead minister for the proposals said: “In response to the findings of the consultation and as I set out in Parliament earlier this year, the proposal to implement HPMAs across 10% of Scotland’s seas by 2026 will not be progressed.

“My thanks go to everyone who took the time to respond to the consultation and to those who have continued to engage constructively with me and other ministers over the summer. The government is firmly committed to protecting our marine environment and will continue to work closely with coastal communities and industries

to protect Scotland’s seas for the benefit of all. As a priority, this includes completing management measures for our existing Marine Protected Area (MPA) network and protecting our Priority Marine Features.

“I am determined to protect our oceans in a way that is fair and to find a way forward that ensures our seas remain a source of prosperity for the nation, especially in our coastal and island communities.”

Tavish Scott, Chief E ecutive of Salmon Scotland, said: “This analysis confirms that individuals were overwhelmingly opposed to the introduction of HPMAs and the government was right to listen to these concerns and shelve the proposals.

“This confirmation is a huge relief for salmon farmers and all those who rely on our sector who were concerned about the impact on their livelihoods.

“I am grateful to all the MSPs who spoke up in support of our sector and rural Scotland.

“We once again commit to working with the Scottish Government to develop workable proposals that safeguard both livelihoods and the marine environment on which they rely.” anff and uchan Conservative MP avid uguid commented: “The S P- reen Government already claimed these plans were ‘scrapped’ but I worry that all they have done is kick the can down the road.

“While the S P spin that these proposals have been consigned to history, I have yet to see any indication from Green MSPs such as Lorna Slater that they want to back down over this. e added: The S P- reen Government must continue to listen to the concerns of the fishing industry and provide absolute clarity that the fishing ban on 10 of Scottish Waters won’t return under a different guise in the future.”

HPMAs have been introduced for England and Wales, albeit on a much more limited scale than that proposed in Scotland. The concept is also supported in principle by the European Union.

From the top: Salmon farm, Skye

Tavish Scott M iri McAllan

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13/11/2023 15:35:29

Salmon Scotland calls for change in ‘protected’ status wording

INDUSTRY body Salmon Scotland has confirme that it has as e for the hrase farme to e remo e from the sector s rotecte geogra hica in ication the r es that set o t which ro cts can e so as cottish sa mon. can a to an foo rin an agric t ra ro ct with a geogra hica connection or that is ma e sing tra itiona metho s. rigina a ro ean nion scheme since the stat s of ro cts

has een the res onsi i it of the go ernment. or cottish sa mon the c rrent refers to cottish farme sa mon an cottish organic farme sa mon . a mon cot an sa s the ic now n erstan that t antic sa mon for sa e in the is now a farme not wi so the farme esignation is re n ant. n a statement to a a mon cot an sai n ractice most retai ers an c stomers n erstan cottish farme sa mon is cottish sa mon. went ears on from when the was first a ro e an a few ears since the eft the ro ean nion the time is right to consi er whether the re ects what cons mers n erstan o r ro ct to e. he name change sim re ects this. a mon cot an a e that as ac aging r es ma e it c ear that the ro ction metho for seafoo m st e c ear state cons mers wi e eft in no

o t that the ro ct the are ing has een farme in cot an . he e reason gi en for the change is that as it stan s nscr o s o erators co ass an inferior ro ct off as cottish sa mon e en if it oes not meet the terms of the which sets o t in some etai the re ire a it an ro ction metho s re ire to a if . a mon cot an o ge its a ication to amen the on t went ic in cto er fo owing ress re orts. he ro ose amen ments a so inc e a re est to change the geogra hica esignation from he western coasta region of main an cot an estern s es r ne an het an to he coasta region of main an cot an estern s es r ne an het an s es. here are a so ro osa s to change some of the wor ing regar ing the ro ction rocess an to ma e it c earer which ro cts can e esignate cottish sa mon .

Bakkafrost Scotland losses mount but ‘progress on the horizon’ BAKKAFROST’S farming operations in Scotland continued to produce sizeable losses between July and September, the Q3 figures show.

The Farming Scotland EBIT or operational loss was DKK 282m (£33m), up from a loss of DKK 180m (£21m) a year ago.

Freshwater Scotland saw its operational EBIT or profit increase from DKK 11m (£1.2m) to DKK 17m (almost £2m).

Farming Faroes did produce an operational profit or EBIT during the quarter but it was much lower than a year ago – down from DKK 274m (£31.8m) to DKK 108m (£12.5m).

Bakkafrost revealed its Scottish marine operation had a challenging biological development during the quarter.

“The main challenge was micro-jellyfish combined with primary (predisposing) factors and secondary (subsequent) complications, leading to increased mortality,” the company explained.

“As previously disclosed, the biological challenges arrived earlier than in recent years but have in return eased off earlier as well.

“Hence, from mid-September, the biology improved significantly. The upscaled freshwater dual treatment capacity in Scotland had a positive impact on fish gill health and ensured low sea lice levels. This has reduced the potential impact of the biological threats during the quarter.

“To leverage the improved biological development since mid-September, Bakkafrost plans to reduce Q4 2023 harvest volume to under 1,000 tonnes, allowing fish to grow larger, similar to Bakkafrost’s approach in Scotland in Q4 2022.

“This shift will push some harvest volume into Q1 2024, enhancing market value through higher average weights and better prices.”

To address the biological risks, Bakkafrost has made strategic adjustments to its shortterm plans and production strategy for the Scottish farming operation.

A comprehensive risk assessment has been conducted for all farming sites, evaluating the feasibility of stocking and farming on these sites using various strains, hatcheries and smolt sizes.

The company said: “Based on this evaluation, Bakkafrost will prioritise and advance the utilisation of large, high-quality smolt from the Applecross hatchery over external sources. Consequently, Applecross will supply nearly all of the required smolt to the marine sites in 2024.

“Additionally, there are plans for an early trial involving 500g smolt, set to be released in Q1 2024.

“Some farming sites may not be restocked or remain productive during Q3 until the risks have been mitigated through the use of large, high-quality smolt. This approach will reduce the biomass at risk in Q3 and result in an

increased harvest during the first half of the year.

“From 2025, Applecross will deliver all smolts for Scotland at around 200g to 300g.

As demonstrated in the Faroe Islands, large high-quality smolt will have a lower risk exposure in the marine environment due to shorter production cycles in the sea and the robustness of the smolt.”

Top: Bakkafrost Scotland workers Above: The Applecross hatchery

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13/11/2023 15:36:51

UNITED KINGDOM NEWS

NEWS IN BRIEF c tti a a ti i tic

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SCOTLAND’S salmon farming companies have dramatically reduced antibiotic medicine use by more than half in the space of a year, UK Government figures show. The new eterinary Medicines irectorate’s eterinary Antimicrobial Resistance and Sales Surveillance ( ARSS) report shows that 2022 usage of antibiotics in salmon was 18. mg kg, down .5mg kg since 0 1.

The amount of antibiotics used

i a i

last year for farmed salmon was only slightly more (by just under 3%) compared with when this information was first recorded in 2017. Farmed trout, however, recorded a big increase of 5. mg kg to .1mg kg.

Mowi wins ASC UK Brand award

MOWI was the inaugural winner of the Aquaculture Stewardship Council’s UK Brand of the Year Award, presented at the ASC/ Marine Stewardship Council awards on 26 October at Fishmongers’ Hall, London.

Pictured above are ASC’s Aisla Jones with Nina Gomeche and Robin Brown from Mowi Consumer Products.

Gomeche said: “Mowi is delighted to receive this recognition of the

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SCOTTISH-based marine supplier Gael Force has reported that its turnover for 2022 was up by 14%

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brand and company… We are proud to promote Mowi Scottish Salmon to shoppers who are increasingly aware and concerned about the provenance, ethics and sustainability of the food they buy.”

Also at the event, Sainsbury’s was named UK Retailer of the Year and New England Seafood International won the award for UK Retail Supplier of the Year.

Cooke’s Scotland arm reports r fit r COOKE ac t re cot an saw rofits a most a thir in es ite a cha enging ear the com an has reported. cco nts for the ear en e ecem er j st ishe show net rofits to . m. his was es ite a mo est increase in t rno er of to m an o mes fa ing on the re io s ear. he res ts re ect recor sa mon rices ring a tho gh the com an a so e erience cost increases. he com an s net c rrent assets were . m in . m . he a e of oo e cot an s io ogica stoc at the ear en was . m . m . oo e ac t re cot an ai no i i en this ear to its ana ian ase owners oo e ac t re. he com an ai ess ta . m in com are with m in arge e to a j stments re ating to rior erio s. he irectors note that ha een a cha enging ear in terms of costs an io ogica iss es artic ar micro je fish t a e that the com an ha recei e ermission for a new site ast oc ett off r ne after a s ccessf ic engagement. he rea own of the com an s sa es a e was • • rance • est of ro e • est of the wor irectors emo ments a tota e in an the highest ai irector earne . oo e s fee s si iar in the ortheast trition cot an t increase t rno er to . m ast ear. osts howe er went to . m an the com an ma e a ost ta oss of . n the fee com an ma e a ost ta rofit of . oth costs an t rno er were than s to materia s an a o r cost increases an e change rate mo ements.

r fit year on year, thanks to a policy of investment in skills and technology through difficult times in the previous two years.

Gael Force, a key supplier to the aquaculture sector, saw turnover of £27.04m for the year ended 31 December 2022 (2021: £23.7m).The company went from a loss of £1.1m in 2021 to a pre-ta profit of 885,9 8.

Above: Cooke Aquaculture Scotland salmon

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13/11/2023 15:37:49

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MOWI has reported record high 2023 third-quarter revenues of €1.36bn (£1.18bn), with Scotland more than doubling its o erationa rofit or . he g o a o erationa rofit was €203m (£176.5m), of which its Scotland operation contributed €9.2m (£8m), up from €4.2m (£3.6m) a year ago. he gro sai the performance during the July to September period was driven by record high volumes, solid demand and favourable salmon prices.

Above: Mowi Scotland Farm Mowi harvested an all-time high 135,000 tonnes of salmon tonnes in farming volumes particularly in the quarter. Full-year harvest volume stands out.” guidance for 2023 is maintained at Consumer products delivered a record-high 484,000 tonnes. another strong quarter operationally Guidance for 2024 of 500,000 an financia with seasona recor tonnes also marks a new record and a volumes and operational results. milestone achievement for Mowi, said arnings in the fee segment were the report, compared with 375,000 seasonally record high on strong tonnes j st fi e ears ago. volumes and solid operational an in heim sai o me erformance. o mes from the growth across the value chain is one of Norwegian plant were record high Mowi’s strategic pillars. Growth within on the back of continued strong growth Mowi Farming has been impressive in in sea and increased feed requirements recent years, where crossing 500,000 in Mowi Farming Norway.

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Scotland thriving

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Mowi Scotland produced a slightly higher harvest of 14,730 tonnes ring the erio . arnings increased on improved achieved prices, partly offset by higher realised costs, driven by previous in ation an more cha enging environmental conditions, thanks to higher temperatures over time. he re ort a s n the warm sea water conditions, micro je fish an higher an ton biomass were again evident.

Incident-based mortality costs were €7.6m (£6.6m). he a o e mentione iss es have lingered on in October and at the time of writing, we expect high biological cost in the fourth quarter.

Further to this, the volume guiding for 2023 has been adjusted to 62,000 tonnes from 64,000 tonnes.”

Mowi Ireland turned a loss of €2.6m (£2.2m) in Q3 last year into an o erationa rofit of . m . m on a slightly lower harvest of 1,994 tonnes this quarter.

Mowi plans to pay a quarterly dividend totalling NOK 780m (£57m) to shareholders at NOK 1.5 per share.

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6_UK news (1)_converted.indd 9

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13/11/2023 15:38:36

UNITED KINGDOM NEWS

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art r fit

Above: Loch Duart farm team at work

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INDEPENDENT salmon producer och art t has re orte rofits of . m for the financia ear up from £1.5m. he com an s acco nts for the ear arch a so show that t rno er was . m . m . och art farms sa mon eri e from a wi cottish strain in ther an an the e ri es. he irectors re ort for sa s that the com an is foc se on a ressing the increasing cha enges create rising water tem erat res he gro s a roach to farming artic ar farm size a ows it to a ess intensi e so tions. he re ort a s that efforts to e ore the otentia of reo ening ana ian o erations contin e. och art ho s icences in o a cotia t has not acti e farme there since .

he com an is a so e eing ansion in cot an . ast ear och art ac ire fi e former rieg sites on e from cottish ea arms. he re ort sa s he gro is wor ing to increase ro ction thro gh new sites. n estments in infrastr ct re an the i ing of a i e ine of smo ts for in t egan after the ear en . he irectors ta e a swi e at cot an as an en ironment for fish farming. he oint o t howe er that reforms in the reg ator an consenting regime recommen e in the riggs e ort ha e sti not een im emente an arg e that cot an is fa ing ehin other j ris ictions in terms of growth o ort nit an cost of com iance. he com an a so recor s that irectors rem neration for the ear was . e

Cooke Aquaculture consults on Shetland plan FISH farmer Cooke Aquaculture has been consulting on plans for a new salmon farm near Vementry on Shetland.

The proposed farm at Swarbricks Minn, between Vementry and Muckle Roe, would consist of 12m by 120m circumference salmon pens, arranged in a group of two by six pens. There will also be a feed barge moored to the south of the pen group.

Cooke says the farm would be serviced on a daily basis from the company’s existing shorebase at Aith. The company says the development would lead to the creation of five highly skilled, full-time jobs in the local area.

The company’s statement outlining the proposal also says: “The high-energy environment within Swarbacks Minn will create optimal growing conditions that promote excellent fish welfare, whilst also minimising our interactions with the environment and potentially

sensitive receptors in the wider area.”

Two public meetings took place this week to explain the plans to the local community.

The proposed farm would be subject to an environmental impact assessment (EIA).

The site is close to the Special Protected Area at Papa Stour, which hosts important breeding colonies of seabirds. This would be included in the EIA. Cooke says: “Cooke is one of the largest employers in Shetland. Sustainable growth of the business enables us to create new jobs and secure the jobs of existing facilities. We plan to not only invest in our people and development but also the local communities we support. Since 2017, we have spent £260,000 in local communities in Shetland through our Community Benefit Fund and with new developments we plan to invest in the local communities we work within.”

Court bans activist from Mowi Scotland’s fish farms farming acti ist on tanifor has een ermanent arre a co rt from a roaching within metres of owi s sa mon farms in cot an t he has in icate he is a ea ing against the ecision. heriff n rew err at the heriff om of orth trathc e at an grante the or er of inter ict which re ents tanifor from • oar ing entering onto h sica occ ing attaching himse f to attaching esse s to or a roaching within metres of a str ct res oc s wa wa s i ings oats or ens of owi s sa mon a ac t re farms; • ing nmanne aircraft a so nown as rones a o e owi s sa mon aquaculture farms; and

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• instr cting roc ring enco raging or faci itating others to so act an for an e ten e inter ict a interim. tanifor who fo n e cottish a mon atch now re ran e as camon cot an to cam aign for the en of sa mon farming in cot an has for some ears carrie o t co ert fi ming o erations to high ight what he regar s as mistreatment of the fish an en ironmenta amage. owi ha ong arg e that tanifor s actions ris e otentia harm to himse f his co eag es an the we fare of the fish. o a the com an sai owi is ease that the cottish co rts ha e grante the com an s re est for a ermanent inter ict or er against an in i i a who es ite re eate re ests not to o

so ha contin e to t himse f an the com an s em o ees an anima s at ris . ea ing to the Mail on Sunday tanifor sai he ha a rea o ge an a ea against the co rt s ecision. eanwhi e cottish ea arms which has a so iss e warnings to on tanifor o er a ong erio of time is e ie e to e re aring to see its own inter ict against him.

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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13/11/2023 15:39:32

Fish Farmer WEBINAR AQUA AGENDA

FISH HEALTH & WELFARE Last year, 2022, Scotland’s salmon farming industry saw a high level of mortalities that took a heavy toll on harvest numbers, profits and the reputation of the sector. In January, Fish Farmer magazine will be bringing a panel of experts together online for a webinar to discuss the lessons that have been learned, what the outcomes looked like in 2023 and what the prospects are for better fish health and survival rates in future.

DATE:

WEDNESDAY 24 JANUARY 2024

If you are interested in joining the webinar online – or if you would like to find out more about webinar sponsorship opportunities – please contact Fiona Robertson - frobertson@fishfarmermagazine.com

Choose Mowi Feed to rear strong, healthy fish Mowi’s feed mill in Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye produces feed for salmon and trout at all lifecycle stages and for fresh and seawater environments.

R&D is central to everything we do at Mowi Feed and ongoing field trials inform our approach to optimising raw materials, growth rates and animal robustness.

We have a robust policy on sustainability and all ingredients used in fish feed are traceable. Mowi also holds certifications for feed production according to the GlobalGAP CFM, Label Rouge and organic (Naturland and Soil Association) standards and we are already working towards gaining accreditation to the forthcoming ASC Fish Feed Standard. Mowi is regularly audited by many of the major European retailers and comply with the quality standards prescribed by a wide diversity of retail outlets.

We offer bulk deliveries using our own vessels and we can deliver in bags by sea or road transport.

To find out more contact: kyleakinfeedsales@mowi.com +44 7817 099 334 www.mowi.com/sustainability/mowi-feed

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UK news.indd 11

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13/11/2023 09:27:27

EUROPEAN NEWS

European news

Iceland’s fish farming regime facing radical shake-up

ICELAND is planning to limit salmon farming to no more than one company per fjord. The proposal follows growing concern over escapes and comes as part of a draft report that also includes major changes to the fee charging and taxation system.

The draft policy looks set to be firmed up over the ne t few months.

As well as the one-company limit, another of the proposals is that the current charging system be amended to reflect world market prices.

The report follows a detailed analysis of the fish farming industry, carried out by the Boston Consulting Group for Iceland’s Ministry of Food earlier this year.

Icelandic aquaculture exports (mainly salmon and Arctic char) were worth ISK 49bn (£290m) last year, but the Boston study estimated that the industry’s output could be worth up to ISK 430bn (£2.5bn) by 2032.

The draft report says:“It is proposed to make changes to the current [fee] arrangement, as the operating environment has changed.

“But the changes in world market prices have also been significant.

Fees have also increased in the neighbouring countries, the Faroe Islands and Norway.

“The changes are justified in such a way that the operators in farming can better deal with increases, as the

world market price of salmon has risen significantly.”

The report says the current collection system is unable to reflect fluctuations in world market prices.

It adds: “It is clear that auctioning farming areas and biomass is poorly feasible compared to the current legislation. There is great uncertainty about price formation and the implementation of such auctions.

“Therefore, it is clear that compensation for the use of marine areas will be achieved to a small extent through tenders, as was proposed. It is proposed that the levy follow changes in world market prices more closely than has been the case.”

Cod farmer gets approval for a further 3,500 tonnes COD farmer Ode has received approval to start its sixth location, adding a further 3,500 maximum allowable biomass tonnes to production capability.

The location is near Støylen, north of Bergen in the Volda municipality.

Ode was known as Gadus until it changed its name in February. The company said the new site would help it achieve its growth plan and provide more flexibility, increasing its biomass capacity to 25,000 tonnes.

The decision also makes up for the disappointment of being turned down in August by Nordland county council for a similar-sized farm further north in Bindal municipality, even though the local municipal authority had given the plan its backing. No reason was given for the refusal.

Ode CEO Ola Kvalheim said: “We already serve our customers with fresh cod every day, 52 weeks per year.

This new farming site will further strengthen our ability to support the growing demand for fresh farmed cod.

He added: “We are experiencing strong demand for our products, despite a challenging macro-environment in some markets, making increased production imperative to meet the market’s growing appetite for fresh farmed cod.” Above: Ode fish farm

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13/11/2023 15:28:51

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17.10.23 13:47

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European news.indd 13

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13/11/2023 09:31:18

EUROPEAN NEWS

NEWS IN BRIEF fi a a e

e a

ac t re ea

Above: Linn Anne jelland runborg

ORWE IA research institute ofima has appointed Linn Anne jelland runborg as irector of its aquaculture division, starting on 1 anuary.

She was previously eneral Manager of Orkla Ocean, a orwegian company set up to develop seaweed farming for food and related products. ente E Torstensen, CEO of ofima, said: “We are very happy that Linn Anne is joining our team.

As an institute for applied research, close contact with industry is important. efore gaining solid e perience as a leader in the private sector over the past 10 to 1 years, Linn Anne worked as a researcher.”

Salmon companies at top of Coller FAIRR sustainable producers list SALMON producers have taken the top three places in the Coller FAIRR Protein Producer Inde , which rates animal protein producers by sustainability. Mowi was ranked first for the fifth year in succession. The company is joined in the top-three ranked companies by fellow aquaculture businesses Ler y Seafood roup ASA and rieg Seafood ASA, both also based in ergen, orway.

Rankings for each of the 0 companies assessed in the

r e ia

a e arrier re

inde are based on scores for environmental-, social- and governance-related criteria, including greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and food safety.

SALMON farming giant SalMar delivered a third quarter operational EBIT or operating profit of almost OK , 00m ( 1 9m), although Scottish Sea Farms (SSF), in which it owns a half share, continued to produce a loss.

The group E IT is almost OK 1,000 ( m) higher than a year ago, but last year’s figures do not include the TS roup, which was not part of SalMar at that time.

The company said it was shelving part of its offshore farming plans due to “regulatory uncertainty” but will fully focus on semi-offshore operations, while continuing to e plore opportunities outside orway.

SSF reported an improvement in results compared to the previous quarter but was still affected by persistent biological challenges. SSF recorded an operating loss of OK 1 1m ( 8.8m) against a profit of OK m ( . m) a year ago on revenues of OK 8 m ( m) against OK 9 m ( 1m) last year.

This represents an operating loss of OK 1 . 0 ( 1) per kilogram. The division harvested 8,800 tonnes, down from 11, 00 tonnes in 0 .

SalMar said: “In the third quarter, costs related to biological challenges accounted for 1 .1m. olume guidance for 0 is reduced, with ,000 tonnes to 5,000 tonnes to optimise biological performance.

“Improved biological situation for generations to be harvested in 0 .

In 0 , the company e pects ,000 tonnes.”

Strong results for the group

rt rt

rea t r

T E value of orwegian salmon e ports has now passed the OK 100bn ( . bn) mark in 0 , which was the figure for all the country’s overseas seafood sales only four years ago. Commenting on the October results, Christian Chramer, CEO of the country’s Seafood Council, said that once again high salmon prices and a weaker krone had lifted the value to a historically high level. In October, orway e ported salmon worth OK 1 .5 billion ( 9 5m). Salmon accounted for 8 of the total value of seafood e ports last month and the latest figure represents a growth of on October last year.

14

SalMar delivers record Q3 results but SSF continues to struggle

At a group level, SalMar reported strong third quarter 0 results, with an operational E IT for the group of OK , 00m ( 1 9m). Total harvest was 8,100 tonnes. Operational E IT per kilogram was OK 9.5 ( .1 ).

The operational E IT for orway was OK , m ( 1 5m). arvest volume was ,000 tonnes and operational E IT per kilogram was OK 0. 0 ( . ).

The impact of the resource rent ta (salmon ta ) in orway has been included in SalMar’s third-quarter financial statement, calculated for the first nine months of 0 based on the best current estimate. SalMar said it strongly opposes the ta and remains committed to continue seeking dialogue with authorities and decision-makers.

In the third quarter, SalMar strengthened its financial position with the completion of the sale of Fr y. In the fourth quarter, shareholders voted to cancel OK 1 .1m ( 950,000) in treasury shares.

SalMar’s guidance on harvest volumes for 0 remains unchanged in orway, including SalMar Aker Ocean at ,000 tonnes. It has increased the guidance for Icelandic Salmon with 1,000 tonnes to 1 ,000 tonnes and decreased guidance for SSF with ,000 tonnes to 5,000 tonnes (100 basis).

Significant volume growth is e pected in 0 , SalMar said. The volume guidance is 5 ,000 tonnes in orway, ,000 tonnes from SalMar Aker Ocean, 15,000 tonnes for Icelandic Salmon and ,000 tonnes for SSF (100 basis).

SalMar shares rose on the Oslo Stock E change on the back of what are seen as outstanding results.

Top: SalMar farm Right: Scottish Sea Farms salmon

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13/11/2023 15:29:49

€ 100m growth-related loan facility secured for Arnarlax ICELANDIC Salmon has successfully secured a sustainability-linked ISK 100m (£87m) bank facility through its subsidiary Arnarlax.

Chief Financial Officer Jónas Heiðar Birgisson said the facility will support the company’s growth strategy and enhance operational flexibility.

It is also aimed at refinancing existing loans.

The arrangement was carried out in collaboration with DNB, Danske Bank and the Arion Bank.

He added: “Having a sustainable linked financing with favourable competitive terms supports the company’s vision and ambition to be an Icelandic sustainable fish farmer.

“We are happy to continue our collaboration with DNB and Arion Bank, and we look forward working with Danske Bank as a strong addition to our team.”

The arrangement encompasses a term loan facility, a revolving facility and an overdraft facility, complete with the added flexibility of two one-year extension options.

Norwegian-based seafood group SalMar owns a majority stake in Arnarlax.

Meanwhile, Arnarlax has said that for the first time in Iceland, it is preparing for winter by switching to a non-medical treatment using the so-called “optilicer” technique using warmed water, with a wellboat from Norway.

The company said: “We have had calm autumn weather conditions recently and results are good so far by using this wellknown and proven method.”

Arnarlax also decided to take out some fish earlier than planned to ensure a good biological status heading into winter.

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Mowi feed plant hit by dust gas blast Photo: Ørland Kommune

AN explosion has seriously damaged a Mowi feed factory in Norway, causing considerable damage to the top of the building.

Fortunately, no-one was injured and the site, which opened nine years ago, has now been evacuated.

The incident took place in the Above: Mowi plant, Ørland Ørland municipality in the Trøndelag region.

Local news site VG.no reports that there is major damage to site. oca fire ser ice s o esman nnar n i to that the inci ent was the res t of a st gas e osion in a si o where o r is stored. here is amage to the to of the si o t there is no fire. here is some wreckage hanging out of the silo that you have no control over – we are working on securing it,” he said.

One possible explanation is that a conveyor belt overheated, igniting the fishmea an res ting in an e osion.

Mowi said later that all employees had been accounted for, adding the damage was solely material.

Mowi said later that production at the site has since restarted and will quickly reach full capacity.

The company’s shares dipped a little following news of the explosion but it is unclear if this was the cause for the drop.

It is not known how long it will take for the site to return to normal. It has been an eventful few weeks for Mowi, however, which is re orte to ha e ost aro n fish in the r a area in e tem er e to cr shing ring a e icing o eration. t is thought strong currents may be to blame.

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13/11/2023 15:30:42

EUROPEAN NEWS

Norwegian industry dismayed at Fisheries Minister’s dismissal

Higher prices but lower harvests for Nordic Halibut

NORDIC Halibut says it is continuing to see categories remained consistent with an upward trend in sale prices, year on year. previous periods, proving continuous positive underlying market trends.

The company, also known as NOHAL, However, harvest weights during the achieved an average sale prices of NOK third quarter were lower compared to 147 (almost £11) per kilo during the third previous periods, resulting in a decreased arter erio re ecting a increase on volume share sold to the US market. the previous year. i en the significant reference for ore significant the ear to ate sa es arger size fish in the mar et this for this year so far are averaging NOK 160 underscores the company’s commercial er i o mar ing a growth. strategy to maximise the potential of The total revenue generated during the larger-sized harvests intended for this arter amo nte to m . m mar et an other rioritize mar ets and harvest volumes ended at 131 tonnes it added.

(118 tonnes heads-on gutted or HOG).

Above: From left: Bjørnar Skjaeran (Fisheries This year, NOHAL said it aims to release Nordic Halibut said: “Throughout the Minister), Olve Grotle (Conservative Member a mi ion fish into the sea e i a ent to quarter, the company has strategically of Parliament) and Geir Ove Ystmark (CEO the growth phase one production target har este fish an nits to a ign with the Sjømat Norge) at Aqua Nor 2023, Trondheim of tonnes tonnes to e adjusted commercial focus communicated BOTH the seafood industry and a number har este ring . in the interim re ort towar s arger of fellow politicians from the north of size fish an o tima size istri tion.

Norway reacted with dismay over the “This resulted in a relatively low average surprise sacking of Fisheries Minister harvest weight of 4.8kg (4.3kg HOG) in Bjørnar Skjæran in October. the quarter.The reduced harvest weight This important post has been handed directly impacted the company’s average to 39-year-old Cecilie Myrseth, who is a pricing achievement with lower volume professional psychologist and who was a share sold at preferred size categories Labour fishery spokesperson in the Storting. a o e g.

Many people are mystified as to why It said price levels for various size Above: Nordic Halibut farm someone who, they argue, has performed well in difficult circumstances and who made it clear he didn’t want to go, should have faced the axe in such a brutal manner.

Seafood Norway CEO Geir Ove Ystmark said his organisation had a sound and diagnostic data from private constructive working relationship with laboratories between 2021 Skjæran, despite the fact that they and the and 2022. government had strongly disagreed about, The report says results among other things, the new salmon tax. showed that where a thermal He had always been available for talks de-licing had been carried despite those differences, he added. He out, the odds of detecting hoped for the same with the new minister. pasteurella in the following Kåre Heggebø, leader of the Norwegian month increased by 177%, Fishermen’s Association, told the state while the odds increased broadcaster NRK that news of Skjæran’s by 164% when treated with in recent years. Pasteurellosis SOME sea lice treatments can departure “…came like lightning from brushing or rinsing the ranks as number 10 in the increase the risk of bacterial the blue.” month before. list of biological problems infection for salmon, according He said: “Our experience was that Bjørnar On the other hand, lice facing salmon. to research by the Norwegian was a good man for the industry. He was in treatment with fresh water Project Director Duncan the final phase of laying the foundations for Veterinary Institute. increased the odds by just Colquhoun has said that A study found that thermal fishing, hopefully for a long time to come.

17%, which the Institute says tests had previously shown and non-thermal exfoliation of That is why we are surprised he is being is not significant. that pasteurellosis is neither salmon by brushing or rinsing replaced now.”

Senior researcher Leif particularly contagious or can result in a higher risk of Mona Nilsen, leader of Nordland Christian Stige added: “In the highly pathogenic.

But he adds: the disease pasteurellosis.

Labour Party, was more forthright. analyses, we took into account “The connection between lice The fi ndings are based on “What is happening now is completely annual effects, seasonality, treatments and the detection extensive tests carried out by incomprehensible,” she told NRK. differences between production of pasteurella strengthens She added: “He was certainly someone who the Institute, which stresses areas and salmon size. our assumption that external the risk does not apply to knows the region, delivered “It is nevertheless important factors such as stress infl uence freshwater de-licing methods. on many important issues to emphasise that the the spread of bacteria and the Pasteurellosis in salmon can for Nordland and should correlations do not necessarily development of the disease.” cause symptoms such as boils have continued in reflect causation.The results The Institute study combined in the skin at the pectoral fin government.” must therefore be regarded and internal organs.The disease de-licing data collected for as preliminary, which should the Fish Health Report, the results from infection by the Left: Cecilie Myrseth, the be verified as more data Veterinary Institute’s diagnostic bacterium Pasteurella and it has new Fisheries Minister become available.” data from 2018 to 2022 and become a growing problem

De-licing methods can increase bacterial disease risk for fish, study finds

16

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13/11/2023 15:31:41

Above: String jellyfish

A warning has gone out about the appearance of a particularly vicious type of jellyfish along the Norwegian coast, which can have a devastating effect on salmon.

Called Perlesnormanet

Photo: Filippo Fratini

Salmon farmers on alert for deadly jellyfish (Apolemia uvaria), also known as the barbed wire or string jellyfish, it has led to the mass death of salmon in the past.

According to the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research, there have been increased sightings of this jellyfish, which can grow up to 30m long.

Apolemia uvaria is a siphonophore and like others of its kind, while it appears to be one single animal, it is actually a colony of tiny organisms.

It can live from the surface down to a depth of 1,000m

and is common in the Atlantic Ocean.

The Institute said: “The colony is pelagic and drifts with the ocean currents, and can occur throughout the water column from the surface to 1,000m deep.

“Previous reports from blooms in 1997 and 2001 indicate that the jellyfish occur in highest concentrations at the far end of the coast. Around 400 : tonnes of fish were lost in the 2001 attack, which took place in Trøndelag.”

It adds: “This year, a number of

reports have been received from the fjord and inside the coast. In recent years, a higher density of Perlesnormanet has been seen in autumn along the coast.

“The nettle threads have strong poison and can kill fish. Colonies can break up into smaller pieces when they come into contact with cages, allowing smaller pieces to penetrate the meshes.”

“Fish that come into contact with the jellyfish can suffer burns and open wounds with a risk of infection. Damage to the eyes and gills has also been reported.”

Statt Torsk losses continue to rise despite revenue growth COD farmer Statt Torsk, which is merging with the whitefish ro cer ester en a r has re orte a more than fo rfo increase in its thir arter t rno er t the com an contin es to e oss ma ing. e en es increase from . m a ear ago to . m j st o er m this time. his im ro ement i not howe er re ent the com an osting hea osses of aro n . m . m ring the arter. ring the first nine months of this ear the com an recor e a t rno er of . m . m with a negati e o erating rofit or oss of . m . m. he same erio ast ear meant a t rno er of . with a negati e o erating rofit of . m . m

Above: Statt Torsk cod farm

n e tem er tatt ors an ester en a r entere into a transaction agreement for a merger. tatt ors isc ose in g st that it ha een affecte high morta ities an ro ction costs ring the secon arter which ha e cost the siness a most m. n s o toc change anno ncement this wee sai entra to tatt ors is to re ce a s a ghter an han ing

costs es ecia in the hase where the com an is now where the ongoing o me to e s a ghtere is ow. his has een so e thro gh a co a oration with e another co farmer where the com anies joint s a ghter fish with the aim of achie ing a ower nit cost er i o. rom an inc ing an ar this co a oration wi achie e f effect. osts for fish wi e re ce . he com an a so sai it was re cing staff with eight eo e affecte so far t warne that f rther c ts ma e on the wa when fina ans for the ost onement an o eration of the site ne t ear are a ai a e. he orwegian eafoo o nci sa s the e ort o me of farme co is contin ing to increase acco nting for of tota fresh co e orts in cto er.

Lerøy sites hit by mass mortalities CALLS are growing for a full investigation into large-scale deaths at a Lerøy salmon farm sites in Norway.

Thousands of fish are reported to have died in recent weeks from gill disease and possibly other health issues.

Lerøy has said it is taking the incidents very seriously and is working hard to find out what happened. The company also stresses it has a has a strong focus on fish welfare.

The problems, which were discovered in early September, was first revealed by the national broadcaster NRK, which said there had been mass deaths at several facilities in the Trøndelag and More and Romsdal regions in recent weeks.

NRK said it has obtained images showing large quantities of dead and passed out salmon at the bottom of the company’s cages at two locations in Hitra municipality.

The broadcaster added: “In the event of such incidents, breeders have a duty

to report to the Norwegian Food Safety Authority. High mortality is serious because it can mean a risk of infection for other fish and must therefore be notified immediately.

“Lerøy has obtained analysis from a laboratory company. NRK has obtained these documents and the examined salmon was full of diseases at the time of death.”

Bjarne Reinert, the Group Director for Aquaculture at Lerøy Seafood, confirmed to NRK that an abnormally large number of salmon have died at several of its facilities this autumn.

Gill disease, which is not notifiable, is thought to be the main problem but there have been other issues such as heart disease and parasites.

NRK showed pictures of the results to leading fish health professor Trygve Poppe at the Norwegian Institute of Environmental and Biosciences.

He described the images as being particularly strong and said that in such

a situation it was important for breeders to act quickly, adding that infections could spread if dead fish were left lying around for long periods.

Norway’s SV (Socialist Left) party called for a full investigation into the incidents and demanded that the new fisheries minister Cecilie Myrseth appears before parliament and explain what the government plans to do to save the industry’s reputation.

She has already described the images as being particularly disturbing, insisting that the industry had a responsibility to maintain good fish welfare.

Above: Ler y farm

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13/11/2023 15:33:02

WORLD NEWS

World news

US agency outlines Alaska aquaculture growth plan ALTHOUGH finfish farming remains illegal in Alaskan waters, the US agency responsible for fisheries and the environment, the ational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ( OAA), has said it is ready to help the state e pand its non-finfish aquaculture sector.

The OAA statement suggests there is potential for growth in Alaska’s seaweed and shellfish sectors.

The OAA has unveiled a blueprint for growth and says it is working with the Alaska Fisheries Science Center to

co-ordinate efforts to support what is a growing industry.

OAA says: “The Alaskan aquaculture industry is in a period of growth and many local, state and federal efforts are focused on supporting this developing industry.

“Aquaculture can be beneficial both to local communities and the environment, boosting coastal economies and providing habitat to marine organisms. “ OAA Fisheries promotes scientific research and economic development

that can sustainably advance the growth of the Alaskan aquaculture industry.”

The OAA Fisheries Alaska Aquaculture Program has been engaged in a variety of projects over the last year, each of which aligns with OAA’s recently released five-year strategy plan.

OAA said its principles include: manage sustainably and efficiently lead science for sustainability and educate and e change information.

The statement added: “ OAA Fisheries supports cutting-edge research, as well as policy-making and regulation. We work closely with partners to improve and e pand opportunities to promote sustainable marine production of shellfish and seaweed in Alaska.”

OAA’s Alaska Aquaculture Program has just released its 0 Aquaculture Accomplishments Report.

This has prioritised 10 out of 1 objectives listed in the five-year plan, which are diverse in both scope and design.

Oyster cultivation and seaweed and kelp production are listed as among the key components of Alaska’s aquaculture development.

Better days ahead, says Atlantic Sapphire THE Florida-based salmon company Atlantic Sapphire is looking to an improved performance in 2024, following the problems it experienced this year with high water temperatures.

In a third-quarter operational update, the recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) producer said it expects to reach an earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) break-even point by next summer.

The year began reasonably well for Atlantic Sapphire before the high water temperature issues struck during the July to September period.

As previously reported, those problems have now been resolved and the company reports it has now returned to production mode. Because of these challenges, however, the final quarter harvest is only expected to be around 300 tonnes.

Atlantic Sapphire signalled it is looking to a better start next year targeting break-even for its phase one operation.

It expects the following improvements: • Standing biomass expected to have reached phase one budgeted level.

• Material ramp-up of harvest volumes, supported by growth rates and mortality in line with phase one business plan, is expected to significantly reduce cash burn.

• To reach EBITDA break-even towards the end of H1 2024, assuming biological performance will return to the same level as in June 2023.

Atlantic Sapphire also said it is taking advantage of a

18

US megatrend, in that the country is the largest salmon consumer market in the world at 600,000 tonnes per year.

At the same time, US production is scarce with consumers generally reliant on European or South American salmon imports, which carry significant freight costs.

The company says phase two, currently under construction, will more than double capacity The update adds: “Having invested US $645m [£529m] of equity since inception, Atlantic Sapphire has had strong supporters both in the equity and debt markets.

“Leading salmon farmer and largest shareholder Nordlaks is showing continued support through additional operational support and resources on the ground in Miami.”

Late last month, Atlantic Sapphire’s CEO Johan E Andreassen announced he will be stepping down.

Andreassen will remain in an “interim CEO role”, the company said, until a successor has been appointed.

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13/11/2023 15:16:17

Salmon farming may be halted to save rare skate FEDERAL authorities in Australia say salmon farming operations in Tasmania’s Macquarie Harbour could be temporarily halted amid a reconsideration of licences to protect a rare breed of skate. ut the move has been met with fierce opposition from the local salmon industry.

Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has warned the industry that a shutdown could be imposed, amid a push to protect the endangered Maugean skate (pictured), which is thought to be only found in that part of the world.

Numbers have been declining due to low levels of oxygen in the harbour – primarily Above: The Maugean skate due to “unsustainable salmon farming”, it The term “harbour” is misleading because is being claimed, as well as hydro operations and MacQuarie is a large fjord covering around climate change.

315km2 (166 square miles) and goes down The minister has written to the Tasmanian to a depth of 50m in places. premier Jeremy Rockliff suggesting that an Federal officials are currently looking at investigation by a skate recovery team had requests from three environmental-related said reducing salmon farming in the area could groups for a reconsideration of whether the be an important step in protecting the fish. salmon industry has the necessary approval The Maugean skate, sometimes called the to operate in MacQuarie Harbour.

Port avey skate, is a species of fish that If the requests had legal validity, then it would was only discovered in 1988. require consultation with the industry, its Its natural habitat is estuarine waters and workers and the state government, Plibersek it is endemic to Tasmania, only found in the said. If the salmon farmers did not have national estuarine waters of MacQuarie Harbour and environmental approval, then that would require Bathurst Harbour. a pause in operations while it was being sought.

Last week, a motion in the Tasmanian Parliament defending the salmon industry was passed with bipartisan support. The motion, among other points, “rejected calls by activist groups to remove salmon farming in MacQuarie Harbour as an unreasonable and unnecessary response to the effort to save the Port Davey/Maugean Skate”.

Meanwhile, industry body Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin said climate change, gillnet fishing and hydro damming took place in the harbour and these could be having an impact on the skate.

“Yes, salmon is one industry that operates in MacQuarie Harbour but there are absolutely no guarantees that taking the easy route and blaming salmon will help to save the skate. What it will do is cost jobs and devastate communities,” he stressed.

“The salmon industry is getting on with the job of responding to the recommendations of the minister’s own task force, committing AUS $6m [£3.1m] for major oxygenation project in the harbour.”

He added: “It’s high time for Hydro Tasmania to step up and play its part in the recovery of the skate, especially having just posted a 1 8m 8 .5m profit.”

FIND OUT MORE

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13/11/2023 15:17:14

WORLD NEWS

Two new appointments for Ace Aquatec in Chile AQUACULTURE technology specialist Ace Aquatec has announced the appointment of two key staff in Chile as the company continues to e pand its presence in South America.

Luis Felipe Diaz Cortez has assumed the role of Senior Sales and Service Manager (Chile), with a focus on promoting Ace Aquatec’s products in Central and South America, while Fabian on ale uarte has been appointed Field Service Technician, providing installation and maintenance support for a range of the company’s products.

With a background in veterinary care, Corte has a wealth of knowledge in raising salmon from hatchery to market in previous roles both in Chile and overseas.

Corte said: “I have worked in this industry for more than 0 years and have seen first-hand how Ace Aquatec’s products are revolutionising the way farmers grow and take care of their fish... I’m really looking forward to making a difference in the Chilean industry.”

Right: Fabian Gonzalez Duarte (left) and Luis Felipe Diaz Cortez

r a a a ia

i fi e a fir rice fi i ca e r

FIVE of Norway’s largest salmon producers have entered into a multi-million Canadian dollar price-fi ing case settlement following a class action suit in the United States.

It follows a civil case involving claims brought by two Canadian consumers. It means the five, Mowi, SalMar, rieg Seafood, Cermaq and the Ler y Seafood Company, will be paying a total of CA $5.25m (£3.1m).

According to the Norwegian business news site Finansavisen, it became known almost four years ago that several producers and sellers of Norwegian salmon were being sued following allegations of price collusion.

This latest development follows a final settlement in the United States after a

number of salmon buyers asked a Florida federal judge to approve a US $33m payout to resolve anti-trust claims against the same companies.

The US anti-trust claims are thought to have involved up to 00,000 possible claimants who had brought the action against the likes of Mowi, SalMar, Cermaq, Ler y and rieg.

It should be stressed that all the companies strenuously deny any allegations of price fi ing, claiming they are completely unfounded.

Finansavisen says the companies were originally sued for some CA $500 million (£410m).

A settlement statement says: “The plaintiffs

ett e and defendants have entered into a proposed settlement to avoid uncertainty, risk and costs of further litigation. The represented plaintiffs and the complaint handler believe that this settlement is in the best interest of everyone.”

Like the earlier US settlement, the statement says that, while the defendants have “good and reasonable defences”, they were settling “to obtain a final and domestic resolution of all claims that have been brought or could have been brought.”

They also want to “avoid further e pense, inconvenience, the distraction of burdensome and lengthy litigation, and the risks associated with litigation and appeals.”

Above:Salmon Ixxxx on sale Above:

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WellFish hires Braceland for North America role

COMING IN THE NEXT ISSUE...

In DECEMBER:

he fish arming reshwater arming ea arming an ase arming rocessing ews eawee

Above: Mark Braceland

WELLFISH Tech, the aquaculture clinical biochemistry specialist, has continued its expansion by hiring Mark Braceland as its North America Director.

The company said this appointment will allow WellFish to better serve the North American market with its non-lethal health and welfare monitoring services.

Braceland, originally from the west of Scotland, has experience in the discovery and commercialisation of several diagnostic products for aquaculture species, especially blood biomarkers. He will be responsible for establishing services in North America as well as building relationships with the diverse R&D and production markets over there, while at the same time retaining close ties with Scotland.

Brian Quinn, CEO of WellFish Tech, said: “We are delighted with the appointment of Mark to this important role. Mark’s background in clinical aquatic animal health and commercial experience in the sector will greatly accelerate WellFish’s progress on this continent.”

Proximar seeking extra £12m due to construction cost inflation PROXIMAR Seafood, the company behind the Oyama recirculating aquaculture system salmon farm project near Japan’s Mount Fuji, has said it needs to raise more money due to rising construction costs. It is looking for an extra NOK 165m (around £12m).

Proximar said the project’s total capital expenditure (capex) has been updated to NOK 1,240 million (£92m), up from NOK 1,195m (£88m) in Q2.

The company, which has a 5,300 tonne first phase target, secured an 8.8 billion Yen (£55m) “blue” facility loan earlier this year.

CEO Joachim Nielsen said: “This is an increase of 17% from the start of construction two-and-ahalf years ago (excluding currency

effects). Increases in operating cost drivers, financing and cape require the company to raise additional funds, a total of NOK 165 million.

“Proximar is evaluating several options for how to fund the additional capital needed.”

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13/11/2023 15:22:26

WORLD NEWS

Red drum RAS farm to be based in Florida

Above: Red drum

THE site for a new fish farm being developed by a former manager with The Kingfish Company has been announced as Pine Island in Florida.

Former Kingfish Maine Operations Manager Megan Sorby said her

new recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) venture will be known as Pine Island Redfish. Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), otherwise known as red drum or channel bass, is well-known to sports fishing enthusiasts in the USA but it has been protected from commercial harvesting since the 1980s.

The site is fully permitted and there is an aquaculture business there already, in the form of shrimp producer American Penaeid.

Pine Island is home to a vast array of tropical fruit and citrus groves as well as palm tree farms. “In studying sites for this farm, we were directed to Pine Island, Florida as a home for both terrestrial agriculture as well as aquaculture,” said Sorby, who is now CEO of Pine Island Redfish. “We looked at multiple locations and found a property that provides all the key elements for our project, while most importantly working within Pine Island’s desire to maintain its natural and undeveloped farm feel.”

Pine Island Redfish acquired a nearly 150 acre property towards the southern part of the island after required review and successful approval by all relevant local, state and federal agencies.

Sorby said: “Previous farming activities on the property as well as the general location and site-specific characteristics are allowing us to establish operations with engineering that meets the goals we are all striving to achieve in the blue economy, including water-efficient technologies and climate-resilience strategies.”

Unique geologic conditions of South Florida provide the opportunity to access high-quality seawater through the ground’s natural sand filter, Sorby says. She adds: “Likewise, we are able to process effluent on-site and recycle its nutrient profile for other applications that create a more circular food system.”

The company is evaluating uses, including the growth of halophytes integral to climate resilience strategies.

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13/11/2023 15:23:32

Solving salmon skin problems

BIOMAR – CLIENT CONTENT

BioMar’s Assist Skin helps to make salmon more resilient and healthy

I

n salmon farming, maintaining optimal skin health is crucial for ensuring fish welfare and maximising productivity. Assist Skin, a research-based feed solution from BioMar, has proven to be a powerful tool to proactively address potential skin challenges and promote overall fish health.

Skin protection

The skin of a salmon serves as the first line of defence. However, various factors can compromise this protective layer, leading to skin lesions, infections, impaired welfare, and lower final product quality.

With the increasing frequency of handling events and treatments now taking place in a typical production cycle, we are seeing customers starting to use Assist Skin more frequently throughout the year.

Accelerated wound healing Wound healing is a long and complicated process that can take more than 50 days. Assist Skin serves as a healing catalyst, accelerating the repair process and restoring skin integrity. Nutrition is important to prevent ulceration, wound healing and to support the fish through challenging periods. Assist Skin provides a rich supply of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that stimulate cell regeneration and collagen synthesis, the building blocks of tissue repair. Inflammation is one of the natural responses to injury, but it is important to avoid excessive inflammation as this can hinder the wound healing process. By being able to both control and regulate the immune response, Assist Skin creates a favourable environment for wound healing and skin repair.

Immune system support Assist Skin plays a crucial role in bolstering the salmon’s immune system, empowering it to combat infections and maintain overall health. It provides a rich supply of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and beta glucans, that are vital for the development and function of immune cells. A stronger immune system enables salmon to better withstand environmental stressors and resist parasitic attacks, and helps to minimise the risk of woundrelated infections, ensuring a smoother healing process.

Field-proven results Practical applications of Assist Skin in salmon farms have demonstrated significant outcomes: • Reduced skin lesions: Research has shown a significant reduction in skin lesions in salmon fed with Assist Skin compared to those on a standard diet.

• Faster wound healing: Assist Skin has been shown to accelerate wound healing by up to 40% compared to control diets.

Conclusion: a proactive approach to skin health As part of BioMar’s comprehensive SmartCare portfolio, Assist Skin stands as one of the many innovative and proven solutions dedicated to enhancing fish welfare. Incorporating Assist Skin into salmon feed strategies ensures healthier skin, reduced lesions, faster recovery, and enhanced overall fish welfare. This contributes to increased profitability for salmon farmers and a more sustainable Scottish salmon industry.

For further information, contact your local BioMar representative or call: +44 (0)1324 665 585.

Above: r al o e al a e eal n o er a er od o

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S n on o nd re en n and

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13/11/2023 15:11:42

Processing news

PROCESSING NEWS

Marel CEO steps down for personal reasons

to engaging with our FOOD processing equipment dedicated and passionate manufacturer Marel has teams, customers, and appointed Arni Sigurdsson wider stakeholders in as interim Chief Executive the coming weeks as we following the resignation of continue on our journey.”

Arni Oddur Thordarson.

Arni Oddur Thordarson Thordarson, who the thanked Marel’s company says resigned “for employees, customers personal reasons” had been and shareholders and CEO for 10 years and, for added: “Together, we have eight years prior to that, dealt with the challenges Chairman of the Board. and opportunities and Arnar Thor Masson, current Above: Arni Oddur Thordarson (L), Arni Sigurdsson (R) strengthened Marel‘s Chairman, said: “The Board of lead Marel on the path to further value competitiveness, step by Directors sincerely thanks Arni creation.” step. Most importantly, Marel is well Oddur Thordarson for his significant Arni Sigurdsson said: “It is an positioned to deliver for its customers contribution to Marel‘s growth and honour to lead the great Marel team and on its strategy.” success… his clear vision and ambition to transform the global food processing and to partner with our customers globally. I have worked across our industry has been the guiding light in business now for almost a decade and Marel’s strategy. believe we have tremendous potential, “We are fortunate to be able to ask His clear vision... has technology, people and the ability to Arni Sigurdsson to assume the role been the guiding light in transform the way food is processed. of Interim Chief Executive Officer to Marel’s strategy We have been taking decisive steps ensure progress on our strategy and to set us up for success and we are business continuity for our customers. on the right track. I look forward He has the Board’s full confidence to

“

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Cooke’s deal to buy Nueva Pescanova falls through

CANADIAN-owned seafood group Cooke has pulled out of a deal to acquire Spanish processing and fisheries business Nueva Pescanova.

The Spanish group’s bank and owner, ABANCA, announced on 31 October that

the talks had ended by mutual consent.

ABANCA said: “After a few months of negotiations in the search for an industrial partner, ABANCA has decided to continue its roadmap in Nueva Pescanova,

maintaining ownership.”

ABANCA owns 97% of Nueva Pescanova, which is involved in processing, fisheries and aquaculture.

Talks on the sale had been going on for most of this year.

In its statement the bank also said: “ABANCA… has begun a process of new strategic, financial, commercial and people positioning in Nueva Pescanova. The objective is to strengthen the fishing company’s business project, its competitiveness and its business model.”

That process, the bank said, had begun in September with the appointment of Jorge Escudero, an executive with decades of experience in international fast moving consumer goods businesses, as CEO. The bank said that negotiations with Cooke, although unsuccessful, had been carried out with “great professionalism” by both parties.

Nueva Pescanova is the successor business to Pescanova, which declared bankruptcy in 2013.

Mowi showcases Florida centre for US Seafood Month IN October, Mowi celebrated National Seafood Month in the United States with a series of initiatives including the opening up of its 100,000 square foot processing facility in Miami to elite content creators specialising in food, health and science.

It also offered a behind the scenes look at sustainable seafood production, blending education with transparency on how salmon is prepared and processed.

Mowi’s US operation is based in Miami, Florida where salmon is flown in daily from Canada, Chile, Norway and other fish farms around the world before being distributed across the country.

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Joe Figaldo, head of Mowi Consumer Products in the US, stressed the importance of transparency in connecting consumers to the brand’s rigorous standards and innovative processing techniques.

He said: “This initiative is an opportunity for a transparent glimpse into our sea-to-fork process.

“We’re showcasing not just our products but the passion and technology that underpin our operations. Through the eyes of recognised names, we want to show them the passion of our people, the quality of our product, and the seato-fork.”

The Mowi offerings include an array

of pre-packed fresh salmon, smoked varieties, and convenient coated frozen options.

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Whitby Seafoods pulls out of scampi deal SCAMPI producer Whitby Seafood has abandoned plans to acquire Kilhorne Bay Seafoods of Country Down, Northerm Ireland, following the news that the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) had launched an investigation into the deal.

Whitby Seafoods holds a very strong market share in in the UK foodservice sector and the CMA felt it was apprpriate to mount a “phasetwo” investigation into the likley impact of the merger.

A spkesperson for Whitby Seafoods said that the fact that the two companies’ values were “aligned” and Kilhorne’s strong foothold in the continental European market had made the deal appealing, but added: “The resources required to engage in a CMA phase-two investigation are out of all proportion to any potential benefit from the deal, and we have therefore withdrawn our offer for Kilhorne and will not be proceeding with the acquisition.”

The CMA had said: “Whitby Seafoods is

currently the largest UK supplier of breaded scampi to foodservice customers (such as pubs, restaurants, and fish and chip shops) by some distance, holding a market share close to 90%.

“Kilhorne Bay Seafoods, while significantly smaller than Whitby Seafoods, is the second largest supplier.”

Whitby Seafoods agreed to buy Kilhorne Bay Seafoods in May this year and voluntarily notified the deal to the Competition and Markets Authority which launched a merger review into the deal in early August.

An initial Phase 1 investigation conducted by the CMA found that Whitby Seafoods already holds a very strong market position in the supply of breaded scampi to foodservice customers.

Following the deal, Whitby Seafoods would have faced even less competition from other scampi suppliers.

Justifying the investigation, Colin Raftery, Senior Director of Mergers at the CMA, said: “Scampi is a popular choice when eating out

Mowi to close Dingwall processing site

MOWI looks set to close the former Wester Ross processing facility at Dingwall, local reports have said.

Around 15 people will be affected but they will be offered jobs at other facili�es within the company.

The Ross-shire Journal report said Mowi has entered a consulta�on period with the staff following a decision to permanently close the site, formerly known as Wester Ross Fisheries.

The company has said all staff will be offered similar or other employment with Mowi throughout the company’s value chain that includes fish processing plants, salmon hatcheries, ocean farms, and a feed mill.

Processing would be moved to other Mowi sites in Scotland.

Mowi Scotland bought a controlling stake in Wester Ross Fisheries over a year ago which at the �me was one of the last independently owned salmon farming businesses in Scotland.

The company specialised in premium products and had a policy prohibi�ng the use of an�bio�cs.

In February Mowi globally indicated that it wanted to reduce the size of its workforce by around 12%, while stressing that there would be no compulsory redundancies. The aim is to save around £20m.

The plan also involves streamlining the business through introducing more automa�on and renego�a�ng contracts with suppliers.

During the summer it announced closure of the a secondary processing opera�on in Donegal, Ireland where 33 people were employed.

The company is expec�ng to be hit by higher tax bills in Norway, the Faroe Islands and, probably, Iceland but it is not known if this has played a part in the Sco�sh or Irish closure announcements.

Above: Wester Ross salmon box

in the UK, with over 20 million servings sold to restaurant, café, and pub goers every year.

“These venues are already facing significant cost pressures, and it’s critical that we don’t allow a loss of competition to make things worse.”

Million kroner fine imposed on slaughter ship owner THE owner of the slaughter ship Norwegian Gannet has been fined just over a million kroner (around £75,000) by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority for breaching fish welfare rules by reducing the voltage strength on its stunning equipment.

However, the Hav Line, the vessel’s operator, has argued in defence that the action was taken in the interests of welfare.

The welfare rules in Norway are strict, stating that fish must always be unconscious before they are slaughtered.

According to a report in the newspaper Bergens Tidende, the Food Safety Authority is alleging that the strength of the stunner had been reduced from 110 volts to between 30 and 50 volts, and carried out without being documented.

Food Safety Authority Inspector Kristina Birkeland told Bergens Tidende that it takes the issue very seriously, maintaining that violation fines are one of the strongest tools in its locker.

She said the change may also have resulted in fish suffering over a period of time.

Kristian Haugland, general manager of Hav Line told the paper that the change was made from a fish welfare perspective. “We experienced that the fish were treated more gently and better anesthetised” , he stressed.

Built in 2018, the Norwegian Gannet carries a crew of around 100 and is capable of processing 160,000 tonnes a year at sea.

Above: The Norwegian Gannet

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13/11/2023 15:04:37

COMMENT

Fishing for fake facts

Anti-farming campaigners are quoting statistics that just don’t stack up, argues Dr Martin Jaffa

T

HE WildFish website states that they are the only independent charity in the UK campaigning for wild fish and their environment. They say that their mission is to reverse the decline of wild fish populations and their habitats with a portfolio of projects that reflects this choosing to work where they can have the biggest impact.

Clearly, the perception of which projects might have the biggest impact depends on one’s point of view. WildFish in t heir various former guises have campaigned and continue to campaign against salmon farming, even though there is no evidence to show that closing salmon farms will even halt the current declines, let alone reverse them.

WildFish claim that their campaigning played a pivotal role in the closure of coastal netting stations around Scotland. They say that this was a significant success for wild Scottish salmon and sea trout conservation. Official records show that since 1952 up to their closure, coastal netting caught and killed a total of 18,748,307 salmon and sea trout.

If this is deemed to be a success, then surely extending the ban to a sector that is responsible for the deaths of a further 5.9 million migratory fish should be a no brainer. However, WildFish remain strangely quiet about stopping any more deaths by this other sector. This is because, despite repeatedly changing their name, they remain the representative organisation for salmon and trout anglers in the UK. Not only have they failed to speak out about the impacts of angling, but

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they have also not demanded an end to the killing of all rod-caught salmon and sea trout, let alone the implementation of mandatory catch and release.

Of course, it is well-known that their constant attacks on salmon farming are simply to deflect attention away from their members’ activities. It is not surprising that they refuse to discuss their concerns with anyone from the salmon farming sector. In my opinion, this is simply because they know that their claims do not stand up to scrutiny.

The phantom sea lice A recent tweet states that open-net salmon farms put wild salmon and sea trout at risk from sea lice, yet I question the validity of this claim. Certainly, their narrative is not supported by the science.

On 28 March this year, WildFish issued a news story that their new report found salmon farms had systematically failed to meet their own guidelines with up to two billion sea lice emanating from a single farm in a single week.

This claim might appeal to their angling membership but is likely to be as far from the truth as it is possible to get.

Their claim is based on one single event during one single week from which they extrapolate into the realms of impossibility. In week 12 of 2022 (21 March), one farm reported a lice count of 8.2 adult sea lice per fish. Reference to publicised sea lice data from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency shows that this level of sea lice is very much the exception. Most farm lice levels are well below one. However, WildFish use this exceptionally high level on one farm to

”

Certainly, their narrative is not supported by the science

Top: n ler

ll no re ared o oe a anda or ca c and relea e ol c or endan ered al on Left: Sea l ce

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predict larval sea lice levels in the seas around Scotland. The farm held about 600,000 fish that week so using simple maths, WildFish concludes that the farm carried nearly five million adult female larval that week.

As WildFish are effectively activist anglers and not parasitologists, they have failed to understand that sea lice are not distributed evenly through both farmed and wild fish populations. A defining feature of parasites is that they have an aggregated distribution with the majority of host fish being free of lice or carrying very few lice, whilst a few fish carry many lice. This makes estimation of the parasite population difficult, especially when sampling is small.

WildFish use their estimation of sea lice to calculate the number of eggs produced and hence the number of hatched larvae.

For this farm, they say, this represents 2,152,768,707 sea lice larvae precisely.

Thus, their headline story is that farms

in Scotland produce two billion lice every week, which using their method of estimate means that there are more than 400 billion sea lice larvae moving around the west coast of Scotland. This is just nonsense and is not even near being a true reflection of the state of sea lice larvae in Scottish waters.

The reality is that researchers have been looking for these sea lice larvae for more than 30 years. Despite WildFish’s extrapolated estimate of 400 billion larvae, which suggest a soup of larvae swimming in Scottish waters, there is no published research to confirm that these lice larvae actually exist where they are claimed to be.

I only need to look back to February this year and the publication of the Scottish Government’s SPILLS report to be reminded that in 372 different samplings in the sea south of Oban, researchers found just 20 larval sea lice and one preadult. The location was surrounded by 10 farms, thus equating to 20 billion

lice, which means a success rate of 0.0000001%. The SPILLS team famously wrote that just because they couldn’t find any lice does not mean they are not there.

Actually, it does.

I have references to six separate published studies from Ireland, Scotland, Norway and Canada, and not one found any larval sea lice numbers of note in the sea except in close proximity to a salmon farm.

WildFish are so keen to blame salmon farming for the declines to wild salmon and sea trout that they are happy to spread unsubstantiated claims against the salmon farming industry as long as they do it without having to face those that they accuse.

I began my journey investigating sea lice at a debate with anglers over the impacts of salmon farming. I would be more than willing to repeat the experience again.

Sadly, WildFish haven’t got the courage of their conviction to do so.

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13/11/2023 14:55:12

SALMON SCOTLAND

From egg to plate The vital role of Scottish salmon’s supply chain runs all the way through the production process, writes Tavish Scott

T

HE aquaculture success story is made possible by companies operating in every part of Scotland, explains Salmon Scotland CEO Tavish Scott.

Scottish salmon is enjoyed by people in more than 50 countries in the form of 970 million nutritious, healthy meals every year.

Every single Scottish salmon that ends up on those plates has been raised on farms in the waters off Scotland’s Highlands and Islands, but their journey to the consumer requires an immense contribution from the wider supply chain.

While salmon farming directly employs more than 2,500 people in fragile, coastal communities in rural Scotland, there are a further 10,000 Scottish jobs dependent on our sector.

Our direct economic contribution to the UK in gross value added in 2021 was £766m: £303m direct and a further £397m through the supply chain.

The companies that make up that supply chain can be found in every single one of Scotland’s 73 parliamentary constituencies.

A staggering 3,600 suppliers are part of the story and Scottish salmon farmers spend an estimated £600m on the services they provide.

This includes everything from feed manufacturers, engineering and equipment firms, boat builders, logistics firms, fuel and utility companies, legal and accountancy businesses, and transport, food and accommodation suppliers.

The vast scale of the operation means that when I meet an MSP or MP from anywhere in Scotland, I can tell them about the importance of the Scottish salmon farming sector in their own constituency.

For example, Labour’s Shadow Scottish Secretary Ian Murray recently took the time to visit the Western Isles to see a salmon farm for himself. It wasn’t just three salmon Top: N eil G r ay at D F D S Left: a Sco le farmers and 300 supply chain businesses w it h I an M ur r ay in the Outer Hebrides I could talk about, but also the 20 suppliers in his urban constituency of Edinburgh South who work with our sector.

I pay tribute to all the companies involved in the journey from egg to plate, many of whom are members of Salmon Scotland.

One such member is DFDS Logistics Scotland, which offers a full range of logistics solutions and is the largest

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Aquaculture and its supply chain are a vital component of the Scottish economy 28

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provider of transportation services to the Scottish salmon and seafood industries.

In October, I was pleased to welcome the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy, Neil Gray MSP, to DFDS’s massive chilled warehouse facility in Larkhall.

Joined by David Cranston, EU Operations Manager with DFDS Logistics Scotland, the company’s Operations Director Mick Devine and the Operations Manager Mark Kelly, we explained how this custom-built distribution centre enables Scottish salmon to reach foreign shores.

The Scottish Government recently published its long-term vision for sustainable aquaculture, recognising our “crucial role” in contributing to food security, net zero and high-skilled jobs.

Following this visit, I came away confident that Gray and his Scottish ministerial colleagues fully appreciate the economic importance of farm-raised salmon.

“Aquaculture and its supply chain are a vital component of the Scottish economy and a significant provider of highly skilled jobs in some of our most fragile rural communities,” he said.

“Scottish salmon farming has a key role to play in supporting our goal to transition to a wellbeing economy by delivering sustainable economic growth, improved food security and meeting our net zero targets.

“I am pleased to have met with both Salmon Scotland and DFDS to learn more about how supply chain businesses are supporting the development of the salmon farming sector, and to discuss how businesses and the Scottish Government can continue to work together to deliver on our ambitions set out in our National Strategy for Economic Transformation.”

As I write this, First Minister Humza Yousaf has just announced he is embarking on a series of meetings with the business community as part of this new national strategy and his promised “reset” with industry.

“We want our businesses to thrive and for their success to benefit all of society. It’s central to my government’s vision for a wellbeing economy, which meets the needs and aspirations of our people and provides opportunities for all,” he said.

These are welcome words – but, as always, the proof will be in the pudding. Like all sectors, aquaculture faces challenges including issues ranging from climate change to Brexit to rampant

inflation. By working together with government, however, we can continue to grow a low-carbon, highly nutritious food that sustains thousands of jobs in every part of Scotland.

I am determined that this message is heard loud and clear with government at all levels on behalf of farmers and our supply chain.

It’s also a message I am taking to the opposition parties. We were recently joined by Scottish Labour’s economy spokesperson, Daniel Johnson MSP, at a board meeting of Salmon Scotland.

Johnson is overseeing his party’s economic growth strategy and I have stressed how important it is that aquaculture’s contribution to “Brand Scotland” is recognised in this.

In recent weeks, we have faced renewed attacks from the tiny – but vocal – urban-based activists who want to shut our sector down and make thousands of people unemployed.

It is therefore vital that decision-makers understand the truth about our sector, which is where we come in at Salmon Scotland.

To further boost the reputation of the world’s best salmon and to ensure the supply chain continues to thrive, we are currently taking steps to protect our premium product from food fraud, where inferior salmon products with lower environmental and food safety standards are imported and could be sold as “Scottish salmon”.

In 2004, Scottish salmon was awarded with a protected geographic indication, or PGI, which means only farm-raised Atlantic salmon from Scotland can be called Scottish farmed salmon.

Wild Scottish salmon is not sold in supermarkets and farm-raised salmon now supplies 100% of the increasing demand for fresh Atlantic salmon.

So we are seeking to boost the legal protections for farm-raised Scottish salmon, particularly post-Brexit, by changing the PGI name simply to Scottish salmon, which is how everyone already refers to our product.

Our sector is going to be around for decades to come and the role we play in the blue economy is going to increase. We can only maximise the potential of the blue revolution and generate prosperity for the whole of Scotland; however, if farmers, the supply chain and government continue to work together to make that happen.

Tavish Scott is Chief Executive of Salmon Scotland.

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13/11/2023 14:51:38

SHELLFISH

Return of the

native

Can oyster restoration projects replenish native oyster stocks?

By Nicki Holmyard

record the density of populations and test the effectiveness of culling as a method of controlling population expansion.

There is now a strong movement by Natural England, which advises the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Environmental Science (Cefas) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to recommend against the cultivation of diploid Pacific oysters, which are capable of reproducing, and to move to the farming of triploid oysters. Triploids have reduced spawning and settlement potential, and could offer a better option for industry and government to ensure long-term viability ATIVE oyster (Ostrea edulis) populations have of the business. declined in the UK by more than 95% since the Oyster hatcheries and farmers are not 1800s due to overfishing, habitat loss and pollution, convinced, however. There is currently very now exacerbated by climate change. little triploid seed available and these oysters Globally, this loss is estimated at 85%, making oyster are not suited to all growing conditions. reefs one of the world’s most imperilled marine habitats. Along with At the Shellfish Association of Great Britain their demise, many important ecosystem services have also been lost, annual conference this year, Duncan Vaughan, because oyster reefs provide important food and habitats for marine life and clean coastal waters by removing excess nutrients. Each oyster Marine Principal Adviser at Natural England, told delegates that Natural England do is capable of filtering around 200 litres of water per day, which is not want to shut down the Pacific oyster roughly the amount in a bathtub.

Native oysters have a slow growth rate compared to the Pacific oyster aquaculture industry.

“This is categorically not the case, nor (Magallana gigas). They have limited breeding success and the number of oysters surviving to maturity can vary considerably from year to year, has it ever been,” he said, in response to criticism of the organisation. “Our primary which adds to the vulnerability of this species. duty is to consider whether the activities of an The Pacific oyster was introduced to the UK in 1965 as an alternative operation are likely to have an adverse impact to the UK native oyster. It was considered unlikely to reproduce naturally because our seas were too cold. However, as the seas have warmed up, this species has now become established in the wild in many places along the UK coastline.

This has led to concern, particularly by Natural England, about the spread of wild Pacific oysters in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

Surveys have been conducted in Cornwall and South Devon to

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Native oysters are ecosystem engineers

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on species and habitats that are protected through various pieces of legislation (such as the MPAs).”

Some landowners, including the Duchy of Cornwall, are now advising leaseholders that they will only be able to grow native oysters once their current leases expire. The fear is that this will not be economically viable and could effectively mean the end of many local oyster farms.

Restoring native oysters Whilst the farmed oyster industry remains deeply troubled about its future, significant funds are being poured into native oyster restoration efforts to boost populations and restore Britain’s seas to health. Many are connected through the Native Oyster Network.

One such scheme is the Wild Oysters Project, which is a collaboration between the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE) and the trade association British Marine, working with local delivery partners Groundwork North East and Cumbria, Bangor University and Clyde Porpoise CIC. The aim is to create oyster restoration hubs and hatcheries right across the UK. Wild Oysters is building on pioneering work carried out by BLUE and the University of Portsmouth in the Solent in a project inspired by large-scale oyster gardening schemes in

the USA. The work is being undertaken with more than 140 marinas, encouraging them to create oyster nurseries hanging in cages under pontoons.

Each oyster nursery houses adult broodstock oysters, which reproduce naturally and release larvae into the sea, where they settle out on used shells placed on the seabed as cultch.

The nurseries and burgeoning reefs also provide shelter for a diverse range of marine life. So far, more than 124 different species using the nurseries for food, refuge or as a permanent home have been identified.

Education is an important aspect of the project. The nursery system provides an excellent opportunity to show off the abundance of marine life just below the ocean’s surface to a wide audience. School

groups, volunteers and local community groups are all encouraged to get involved in the project and to learn about the importance of native oysters.

“Native oysters are ecosystem engineers, which means they change and improve the environment around them,” Matt Uttley, Restoration Project Manager at Blue Marine Foundation, says.

In the northeast of England, a newly created reef was recently populated with 10,000 native oysters by conservationists from the Wild Oysters project, following three years of collaborative work and planning. The team deposited more than 750 tonnes of stone and scallop shell cultch onto the seabed off the coast of Whitburn, forming the foundation for a new underwater marine ecosystem.

Speaking in October, Céline Gamble, Wild Oysters Project Manager said: “Today marks an important milestone in our journey to restore native oyster reefs to British coastlines.

We’re optimistic that the 10,000 oysters will thrive, reproduce and grow on the new reef, which is the size of a football pitch and we look forward to monitoring their progress over the coming months carefully.”

It is hoped that the oyster reef, which is close to the oyster nurseries in Sunderland Marina, will become an important habitat for many species of marine wildlife, including critically endangered species such as the European eel, as well as supporting a wider fin-fishery.

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13/11/2023 14:41:58

SHELLFISH

Where do we go from here?

The ASSG Conference 2023 gave shellfish growers a chance to meet, mingle and learn in Scotland’s seafood capital

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BAN, Scotland’s seafood capital, was once again the venue for the Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers (ASSG) conference.

“Where Do We Go From Here?” was the theme for this year. The two-day event, held at Oban’s Corran Halls on Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 October, offered a packed programme of presentations and discussion.

The conference opened with an address from Stephen Cameron, former Managing Director of the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group, who talked about his experiences and the prospects for shellfish aquaculture.

David Jarrad, CEO of the Shellfish Growers’ Association of Great Britain, gave an update on the work of the All Party Parliamentary

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Group (APPG) for Shellfish. The group, chaired by Anthony Mangnall MP, now has a total of 23 members.

Jarrad said: “The more the parliamentarians know about our industry, the more they will be able to help.”

Key issues the APPG is looking at, Jarrad said, includes the role of Gigas (Pacific oysters) in aquaculture. As he put it: “… we find ourselves in a crazy situation” with tight limits on farming the species, even though it has already become established along the British coastline.

Water quality is another issue, he said, with sewage spills into the marine environment commonplace.

Trade with the EU post-Brexit was also problematic, with no progress so far on digital export health certificates (EHCs) or on tackling the restrictions on exports of live

shellfish to the European Union.

The APPG is also discussing the concept of “natural capital” and the suggestion that investing in farmed shellfish could be used for carbon offset.

He concluded with a call to action: “Contact your MP and get them to join the APPG!” Tim Bean of the Roslin Research Institute spoke about the importance of the microbiome, the communities of microorganisms associated with larger life forms. He stressed: “A healthy environment demands a healthy microbiome.”

The microbiomes for shellfish are affected both by what they inherit from their parents and by the marine environment, including pathogens.

He concluded with some questions the research has raised, including: “Should we monitor pathogens alone or also repeat offenders in the microbiome? Can we influence the biome in a positive way to

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prevent disease? And how good are current diagnostic methods at picking pathogens from commensal [benign] bacteria?”

Martin Sutcliffe of the Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock (CIEL) gave an update on the centre’s work and the Open Innovation Groups, which CIEL set up following workshops with the aquaculture sector over the past year.

Eleanor Adamson of the Fishmongers’ Company Trust talked about the trust’s work to encourage the next generation of potential seafood consumers, including the Seafood Hero programme to help teachers be more confident in using seafood when teaching pupils food preparation skills.

Promoting the industry was also the theme for Rob Mitchell, Managing Director of Scottish Shellfish. As he explained in an initiative supported by Crown Estate Scotland, Scottish Shellfish is working with the UK’s big retailers – the supermarkets – to extol the benefits of seafood.

Sarah Riddell of the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) gave some examples of projects that the SAIC had helped to facilitate, from a new molecular tool that could help identify toxins in shellfish to ways to manage tubeworms that can be a threat to the quality of blue mussels.

The Roslin Institute’s Tim Regan opened the second day of the conference with a talk about mussel health – in particular the mussel’s immune system and resilience to disease and stressors. Mussels face risks from, among other things, a transmissible form of cancer that has been found in continental Europe and could potentially cause problems if it reaches the UK. Andy Turner of the Centre for Environment – Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) Weymouth laboratory gave an update on how the problem of testing for shellfish biotoxins is being addressed. The rapid test solution from Neogen, which had been the standard in Scotland, is no longer commercially available.

The search for an alternative has not been easy, as Turner explained. Cefas has been evaluating an alternative lateral flow test from Chile’s AquaBC, available in two formats, but tests have shown that neither of these are ideal, with too many false negatives or false positives.

Alternatives are being explored, including a project with the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University looking at a potential rapid test, and a test from Gold Standard Diagnostics (Abraxis).

Carmel McDougall, now with St Andrews University but until recently based in Australia,

Without collaboration, we cannot move forward

presented an antipodean perspective on shellfish, including the results of research in Queensland into oyster lineages, with important implications for disease resistance.

Ana Corrochano-Fraile of the Institute of Aquaculture in Stirling explained findings of a study into mussel larvae and their dispersion, modelling how different mussel populations along the coast were connected and how that affected the commonality of their genetic make-up.

The final speaker was Heather Moore of Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in Northern Ireland. She spoke about “shellfish sites as environmental sentinels” and recent studies using monitoring technology to evaluate the health of oyster and mussel beds.

Bivalve shellfish are not only an indicator of the health of the environment, she stressed; they can also help to improve the environment through, for example, mitigating the effects of eutrophication.

She finished with a call to action: “Globally, ecosystems are changing, so what can we do? Without collaboration, we cannot move forward.”

The event was sponsored by Crown Estate Scotland, Seafish, SAIC and Ciel.

Nick Lake, the ASSG’s Chief Executive, commented after the conference: “Turnout was very good, with more than 150 people attending. Colleagues came from all four home nations and our Australian speaker had just flown back from Australia the night before.

“We have all got roughly the same sort of challenges. The whole thing is really about the members getting a good chance to discuss with one another the issues of the day. We are a shellfish community.

“We were also delighted to have so many students here because we want to see young blood coming into the industry. But now we need to get those young people into shellfish sites.”

Meanwhile, a raffle held at the conference raised almost £700 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, which was presented to the coxswain of Oban Lifeboat Station on the last day.

Double accolade for family oyster business IT was a double celebration for family-owned Caledonian Oysters at the Scottish Shellfish Awards, with the business retaining its title for Best Native Oysters and receiving a commendation in the Rock Oyster (Gigas) category.

The awards, held as part of the annual Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers conference in Oban, meant prizes were given in three shellfish categories.

The winners were:

BEST ROCK OYSTERS (GIGAS)

Winner: Craig Archibald, Islay Oysters Commended: Judith and Angus Vajk, Caledonian Oysters

BEST MUSSELS

Winner: Cameron McLean and Douglas Wilson, Inverlussa Commended: Iain Mackay, Hebridean Mussels

BEST NATIVE OYSTERS

Winner: Judith and Angus Vajk, Caledonian Oysters Commended: John Barrington, Creran Oysters Nicki Holmyard of Offshore Shellfish, a member of the judging panel and columnist with Fish Farmer, said the standard of entries had been excellent this year and added: “For probably the first time, the judges were unanimous in their decisions on the winners for each category.”

The awards were sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and presented at a gala dinner at the Fishouse Restaurant on Oban’s waterfront.

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13/11/2023 14:39:26

SEA FARMING

California dreaming

Pacific Ocean AquaFarms wants to site a yellowtail kingfish farm on the California coast but it is facing opposition, as Sandy Neil reports

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With Earth’s burgeoning populations to feed, we must turn to the sea with new understanding and new technology. We must learn to farm the sea as we have farmed the land.

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HAT quote, by the famed undersea explorer JacquesYves Cousteau in 1973, headlines the website of Pacific Ocean AquaFarms (POA), an American company that wants to set up a yellowtail farm off the California coast.

“To feed ourselves and help ensure our domestic food security, the US has to expand its domestic production of seafood from aquaculture and do it soon,” POA urges.

POA’s project came on the heels of former President Donald Trump’s executive order to kickstart the US aquaculture industry.

The order, signed in 2020, designated the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as the lead agency for coordinating US offshore aquaculture permits.

The NOAA is preparing an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the floating offshore farm. It is considering two options for its location: four miles off San Diego or at an alternative site four miles off Long Beach. If approved, it would be the first of its kind in Californian federal waters.

POA is a collaboration between Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI), an “internationally respected institution with over a 55-year legacy of pioneering marine science and environmental conservation”, and California-based investment firm Pacific6, which is underwriting the project.

“We will use state-of-the-art technologies that are already being applied and further refined in other countries but not here,” explained HSWRI’s President Don Kent.

“With the US importing more than 80% of its seafood from other countries and more than half of that being farmed, the POA farm will represent a paradigm shift in how the US produces its seafood and thereby enhances the security of its food supply.

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“POA is only planning to establish this single farm to demonstrate how marine finfish farming can be done sustainably and to act as a model for the development of a domestic, offshore farming industry that will lower the dependence on imported seafood, ensure that the standards for product quality and environmental protection are maximised, and help offset the threat to our seafood supply that global climate change represents.”

“The US has the largest contiguous

Marine farming is not a threat to local fishermen; it rather complements their industry

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Kent told us: “There is no ‘due date’ for the permits but we hope that the EIS, as part of the National Environmental Policy Act process, will be completed in 2024, thereby allowing the federal agencies to issue their permits.

“We are adhering to the process established by the federal agencies responsible for issuing permits and for conducting the requisite environmental review. We feel that barring any as yet unidentified, environmental concern that cannot be mitigated, we believe the permits will be forthcoming.”

Some aren’t so keen

exclusive economic zone in the world,” the POA website explains. “This area – surrounding our nation, three to 200 miles offshore – provides a wide range of natural habitats that can support many commercially viable, farmable species...

“POA has selected California yellowtail (Seriola dorsalis) as the preferred species for farming. California yellowtail is a transitory, seasonally abundant species that is native to southern California and thrives in the fast-moving water column.

“HSWRI has cultured California yellowtail since 2003 at its San Diego hatchery – the only yellowtail hatchery on the west coast of the US. The hatchery will provide juveniles to POA so that the origin and grow-out of every fish can be closely monitored and traced.”

California yellowtail would be the initial cultivated species but other local species such as white seabass (Atractoscion nobilis) may be grown in addition or in lieu when the project has become operational.

“Annual harvests will provide from $40m to $50m (£33m to £41.2m) in dockside value and an estimated new annual spending of over $100m (£82.5m),” POA says. “This farm will increase California’s commercial seafood landings by over 20% and over 10 years of operation will contribute in excess of $90m (£74.2m) in state and federal taxes. It is estimated to create and/or support 300+ permanent, good-paying jobs in the farming operation and seafood supply chain.”

More information is given by the NOAA. “Initial production is projected to produce 2.2 million pounds (1,000 metric tonnes) annually, growing up to 11 million pounds (5,000 metric tonnes),” it says. “An area of approximately 1,000 acres (4km2) is sited as suitable for potential use. Of this, approximately 323 acres (1.3km2) would be occupied by the project, including a total of 28 submersible pens, anchors and mooring lines, and surface marker buoys.”

In March, San Diego fishermen, chefs, and local residents voiced their opposition, calling on Kent to halt HSWRI’s technical and institutional support of the fish farm.

“Offshore finfish farming does not benefit fishing communities, the environment or healthy food production – the only ones who profit are a handful of corporations.

These heavily polluting facilities simply have no place in southern California,” said Jake Schwartz, an organiser with campaign group Don’t Cage Our Oceans. He also wrote an op-ed for the San Diego Tribune this year asking US President Joe Biden to oppose the project.

The group said: “These facilities pump antibiotics and pesticides into the pens to kill the sea lice and other diseases, but in the process these chemicals mix with the excess feed and fish waste, and create a toxic sludge that can cause dead zones in the ocean, jeopardising the health and wellbeing of all sea life in those areas.”

Its Legislative Director James Mitchell added: “Pacific Ocean AquaFarms threatens to harm the ocean ecosystem and push local, independent fishing businesses out of the market. This facility would wreak havoc on southern California’s coastal communities. Unfortunately, this facility is just the tip of the iceberg – across the country, corporations are pushing to build industrial offshore rigs. Federal lawmakers and agencies that should be protecting our oceans are caving to corporate pressure.”

“From the toxic algae blooms that finfish farming can cause to the fishermen who it could put out of business, this is a harmful practice and we cannot allow it to come to our common oceans,” concluded its Campaign Director Andrianna Natsoulas.

“We must not let these corporations get a foot in the door to take over the public resource that is the Pacific Ocean. The stakes are too high...”

In response, Kent told us: “We invited local fishermen to a briefing on the programme and their biggest concern was that the proposed farm would be competition for the seafood they catch.

According to California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife catch records, in 2022 along the entire 200 mile coastline of southern California, only 11 tonnes of wild-caught yellowtail were landed with an ex-vessel value of about US $86,000.

“This fish is available only during the late spring and summer, and is not used for sushi/sashimi. The US annually imports over 6,000 tonnes of sushi-grade, farmed yellowtail from Japan and Australia. For this fish to be sushi grade, it has to be farmed and processed following strict protocols...

“POA will not compete with local fishers but rather with fish farmers in other nations and lower the carbon footprint associated with importing that product.

“As for impacts to the seafood economy, this single farm using less than 40 acres of ocean surface area will produce five times more seafood than all commercial fishing landings in San Diego.

“The EIS being prepared is an extensive review of any and all possible environmental concerns identified by the permitting agencies and the public, and looks at alternative sites and scales of production.

Two public ‘scoping’ meetings to define the scope of the EIS were held and the draft EIS will be available for public comment as well.

“Marine farming is not a threat to fishermen; it rather complements their industry and helps ensure that our nation’s seafood infrastructure is preserved. The simple truth is that the world needs more seafood and we need both sustainably harvested and farmed product.”

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GENETICS

Breeding with precision The EU’s AQUA-FAANG project has created a powerful open-source database of genomic information, which is set to make selective breeding in aquaculture more effective.

By Professor Dan Macqueen and Professor Sigbjørn Lien

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HE H2020 AQUA-FAANG project, funded by the European Union, has generated extensive new functional genomics datasets in the six main finfish species farmed in European aquaculture. This article introduces these datasets, how they are being shared with the research and innovation community, and how AQUA-FAANG results provide valuable opportunities to develop precision breeding strategies to increase aquaculture sustainability and profitability.

The issue Finfish farming faces many challenges to sustainable production and expansion, including the constant threat of infectious diseases and climate change, which is enabling new pathogens to enter aquaculture systems while posing further issues to fish health and welfare.

Addressing such challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, with selective breeding providing a keystone strategy.

Genomics provides a vital toolbox for commercial breeding programmes in farmed animals. Selective breeding using genetic markers linked to traits (genomic selection or GS) is widely used to farm fish with favourable characteristics, for example disease resistance. While the current generation of selective breeding is effective when the animals are close relatives, it becomes less effective

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when animals are distantly related – from different populations or across generations.

This is because the selection performed is not directly based on the underlying genetic variants causing the desired traits. There are millions of genetic variants within any species but most have zero effect on traits.

If selective breeding involved targeting the much smaller number of genetic variants that truly influence favourable characteristics (causal variants), it would become highly effective in distantly related animals. This type of precision breeding would have a range of positive impacts that drive increased sustainability and profitability of the aquaculture sector. However, identifying causal variants is challenging and requires cutting-edge techniques.

How AQUA-FAANG is contributing to solutions AQUA-FAANG has produced extensive new datasets to identify regions of the genetic code (i.e. the genome sequence) that impact biological traits in the main finfish species farmed in European aquaculture. We call these regions “functional” and they include DNA elements that control how genes are expressed in different conditions, for example during development or following a challenge to the immune system. Genetic variants in such regions of the genome are much more likely to affect traits of importance to aquaculture than randomly selected variants.

The AQUA-FAANG project represents a great advancement because this type of data is extremely limited in farmed animals and its generation was a huge effort spanning several years, requiring collaboration by many partner organisations around Europe.

The AQUA-FAANG approach involves genome functional annotation, leveraging advanced high-throughout DNA sequencing technologies to reveal and describe different types of functional regions in genomes.

The project generated genome functional annotation data across diverse sample types in the six species studied (Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, turbot, European sea bass, common carp and gilthead sea bream).

This data included: • Different stages of embryonic development – these early life stages are crucial in determining traits of relevance to aquaculture and adult fish health.

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• Different tissues of adult fishes of both sexes at two stages of sexual maturation – these tissues were selected for relevance to a range of aquaculture traits.

• After immune stimulation with viral and bacterial molecular signals – sampling the primary immune organ of fish.

This comprehensive set of samples was used to generate almost 5,000 new sequencing datasets across the six target species. AQUAFAANG data captures how genes are expressed. It also captures how DNA elements in the genome are activated or repressed during fish development from embryo to adult – and following challenge to the immune system.

How can this data be used to advance precision breeding?

AQUA-FAANG datasets add multiple new layers of information on the genetic architecture of farmed fish characteristics. It allows researchers, for the first time, to prioritise genetic variants with increased probability of impacting traits in the target species (for visualisation, see diagram). This information can be used in a range of applications, including building new genetic tools and approaches for breeding that have better accuracy without adding significant financial costs. It can also help reduce the current reliance of industry on measuring important breeding traits (for example, disease challenge experiments) across different generations, which is expensive and problematic with regard to animal welfare.

AQUA-FAANG data will be vital for future applications of genome editing in the targeted fish species. Genome editing is a powerful tool for inducing precise genetic changes that can improve the long-term sustainability of aquaculture. A major bottleneck for implementing this technology is the need to identify high-priority regions for editing.

AQUA-FAANG data provides these target regions and will allow scientists to make more precise changes in the genome, which will be vital not only for research but also potential future applications in aquaculture practise.

The AQUA-FAANG project shares all its data openly through the Ensembl Genome Browser, which enables researchers and the industry to scan the genome of each target species to identify functional regions of interest. Furthermore, Ensembl unlocks opportunities for researchers and aquaculture breeding companies to quickly and easily overlap their bespoke datasets with AQUA-FAANG annotations, empowering new opportunities for precision breeding applications in different countries and organisations across the globe.

Applications and potential impact In summary, AQUA-FAANG has opened the door for precision aquaculture breeding to play a significant role in addressing the

challenges and opportunities outlined above, contributing to the development of a sustainable, resilient and competitive EU aquaculture sector.

The AQUA-FAANG project’s genomics datasets hold significant promise for aquaculture: 1. Precision breeding: AQUA-FAANG identifies genetic variants linked to desirable traits, enabling precise breeding even in distantly related fish.

This enhances sustainability by optimising resource use and reducing costly trait measurement experiments.

2. Efficiency and profitability: the data streamlines commercial breeding, accelerating the development of superior fish lines. This boosts profitability and reduces resource expenditure.

3. Disease resistance: AQUA-FAANG data aids in breeding disease-resistant fish, minimising the need for antibiotics and promoting healthier populations.

4. Genome editing: the project facilitates precise genome editing for sustainability, targeting regions that enhance resource utilisation and environmental friendliness.

5. Global collaboration: AQUA-FAANG’s open data sharing fosters global collaboration, driving innovation in precision breeding techniques.

Professor Dan Macqueen is Personal Chair of Integrative Fish Genomics at the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh; Sigbjørn Lien is Professor of Genetics at the Faculty of Biosciences, the Norwegian University of Life Sciences.

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Conference hears summary of AQUA-FAANG’s findings THE AQUA-FAANG project culminated in a successful final conference held in Edinburgh from 11 to 13 October.

The conference covered a wide range of topics, including the functional annotation of farmed fish genomes, the dynamic functional regulation of farmed fish genomes and the relevance of AQUA-FAANG’s findings to the aquaculture sector in Europe.

Dr Emily Clark, a guest speaker from the EuroFAANG Research Infrastructure project, presented the project’s main objectives during the event. The project aims to build upon the research and knowledge gained in AQUA-FAANG and other EuroFAANG projects, taking it to the next level under the EuroFAANG Research Infrastructure concept.

The conference concluded with a panel discussion focusing on short-, medium- and long-term goals for aquaculture genomics, disease resistance and integrating functional annotation information into breeding programmes.

Key takeaways: • AQUA-FAANG has made significant progress in advancing the field of aquaculture genomics, developing new tools and resources to help researchers and breeders better understand the fish genome.

• The potential applications of AQUA-FAANG findings are huge, with the potential to improve fish health, breeding programmes and overall sustainability of the aquaculture sector.

• Continued investment in aquaculture genomics research is essential to realise the full potential of this technology and ensure the longterm success of the European aquaculture sector.

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13/11/2023 14:32:25

ICELAND

The price of growth Fish farming in Iceland has the potential to expand rapidly but not everyone is happy about that, reports Vince McDonagh

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NE of the more striking sights during last month’s anti-salmon farming demonstration in Reykjavik was that many of the protestors were not bearded or denim-clad young radicals but male professionals and middle-class wives who were accompanied by their children.

Away from established fish farming communities in the Westfjords and in the east of the country, open-net aquaculture in Iceland is in danger of becoming as toxic an issue as, say, fracking was in northwest England a couple of years ago.

In a country where coalition governments are the norm and with demands for a general election just a parliamentary vote away, politicians are beginning to take notice.

The argument that aquaculture growth will provide a huge boost to the national economy still carries weight but no longer dominates.

The good news for the industry is that the Icelandic government is determined to facilitate that growth but this is tempered by the acceptance that producers are going to pay a price in higher taxes and tougher operating restrictions.

This became clear when the government published its draft policy on the future of aquaculture last month. Open-net farming will not be banned but it will be restricted to one company per fjord – a proposal that has been welcomed by some of the established companies.

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The Icelandic veterinary authority MAST is being equipped with more vessels and greater powers to monitor activities to avoid major incidents such as the Arctic Fish escape in August.

The real crunch will come early next year when the government firms up its draft policy and publishes how much the industry will have to pay in fees and taxes.

Looking to recent events in Norway, this is the aspect that is worrying companies the most. The one certainty is that costs will rise but it is not yet known by how much.

Case for the defence To counter some of the anti-fish farming arguments, SFS, the Icelandic Fisheries Federation, recently issued a statement stressing the importance of the industry.

It says: “The impact of fish farming on Icelandic society is great, although it is not always discussed much.

“There are those who try to question whether the industry leaves a mark in this country or has real economic significance for the nation.

“However, the impact of aquaculture on the Icelandic economy is real, as can be seen in the various statistics.

“First of all, it should be mentioned that aquaculture has increased the number of pillars under which the national economy earns foreign currency and has accounted for more than 5% of the value of all product exports in recent seasons.“ SFS says employment income in the Westfjords has increased seventeenfold.

“The increased activity of aquaculture companies is clearly visible in the labour market figures,” it continues.

“In this way, more people than ever now work in fish farming in this country and similarly, employment income in the industry has never been higher.“

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all is said and done, it is clear that aquaculture has been a welcome addition to the Icelandic economy in recent years.

“Fish farming is already of great economic importance to the residents of the various localities and its effects do not go unnoticed by those who live there.

“Business life has become stronger and more diverse there, the number of people has increased and more life is moving into the real estate market, to name just a few improvements.

“This can be attributed directly to the increased activity of the aquaculture companies themselves and indirectly to the secondary effects that the activities have on other industries.”

No doubt SFS will be lobbying the government over future taxes and fees but it may have its work cut out in persuading the middle-class citizens around Reykjavik who took to the streets last month that fish farming, responsibly carried out, is a good thing for the country and its economy.

RAS farming taking off

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According to Statistics Iceland’s figures on tax payments, the number of people employed in fish farming has almost quadrupled in the 12-year period between 2010 and 2022, while income has increased sixfold.

“Aquaculture is a basic industry and there are many companies that rely on its activities directly or indirectly. This secondary and indirect effect of the industry has been great in many parts of the country, especially in the Westfjords and in the east,” says SFS. Also consider that fish farming mostly takes place in areas where the once-strong traditional fishing industry has been seriously depleted or has disappeared altogether.

Fish processing has become less labour intensive and more concentrated, while a modern trawler can do the work of several vessels 20 or 30 years ago.

There is no doubt that, without fish farming, many of these coastal communities would have died out completely.

SFS maintains: “The positive effects of fish farming on Icelandic society are not obvious to everyone, as the scope of the industry varies greatly depending on individual parts of the country, let alone municipalities.

“The effects are much more visible to residents of the Westfjords than in the capital area.”

The figures and their impact vary considerably from one community to another, SFS concedes, but it concludes: “When

The impact of aquaculture Pizzas bigger than openon the pen farming – claim Icelandic economy is real

LAND-based farming in Iceland has moved up several gears this year. In May, the planning agency approved a plan by GeoSalmo to build an eventual 24,000-tonne facility west of Þorlákshöfn.

The company Landeldi hf, recently rebranded as First Water hf, is building a large thermal-heated land farm in the southwest of the country after completing share capital financing worth € 82m (£70m).

Initial output is 8,000 tonnes, rising eventually to 50,000 tonnes.

And despite earlier concerns over water resources, Samherji is moving ahead with its $260m (£214m) staged RAS project at Reykjanes, not far from the capital.

SOME of the anti-fish farming arguments can border on the absurd.

For example, according to the Westfjords-based newspaper and website bb.is, a member of the Icelandic Nature Conservation Fund claimed that the number of jobs in open-pen farming was only a third of those provided by Domino’s Pizzas in the capital Reykjavik, when the real figure was the other way around.

The bb.is site also pointed out that income from that sector was seven times higher than the sale of pizzas – and in a few years’ time it will be 25 times as high.

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LAND-BASED FARMING

Highly

evolved L

Salmon Evolution combines the advantages of RAS and flow-through systems in its coastal production site

AND-based aquaculture company Salmon Evolution is reporting great results in terms of growth and fish health.

Its production at Indre Harøy on Norway’s west coast is based on a hybrid flow-through system that uses a mix of seawater pumped in every day and recycled water circulating in the system.

Could this system be replicated widely?

And can it make a profit?

“Salmon Evolution represents a quantum leap in salmon aquaculture,” states the company boldly. “Raising our salmon on land provides the unique opportunity to create perfect growing conditions, allowing salmon to thrive optimally. The results have been extraordinary and a new world standard established.”

“We have put biology first in everything we do because we want to create an

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of smolt, using renewable energy. Our smolt are gently raised using natural, clean and cold water from the surrounding mountains. This results in robust smolt, well-prepared for life in our grow-out facility at Indre Harøy.

“Our goal is to ensure the best possible water quality for our salmon,” Salmon Evolution says.

“This system combines the use of seawater and recycled water to create an ideal environment for our salmon, creating an environment that closely resembles the natural habitat of salmon.

“About a third of the water in our systems is always new fresh seawater taken in from the ocean. Intakes at two different water depths optimises temperature and heating requirements. Intake water is filtered and UV treated to minimise the risk of parasites, sea lice, particles and viruses.

“With a constant supply of 30% to 35% cold and fresh seawater, the system recirculates the remaining 65% to 70%, saving energy and allowing for precise control of water temperature.

“By reusing up to two-thirds of the water, we can control the environment including temperature. By not going above this threshold in terms of reuse, we avoid having to introduce advanced water treatment systems and can hence operate with a lower operational risk.

“Oxygen and CO2 levels are constantly monitored and adjusted to ensure optimal biological and growth conditions.”

Controlling the grow-out environment minimises the risk of sea-lice or other parasites, it says, while survival rate is increased by “creating optimal growth conditions using high-quality sustainable feed and minimising fish handling.

“Each fish tank represents an individual biological zone, meaning that water in one

environment where the salmon not only survives but also thrives,” explains Trond Håkon Schaug-Pettersen, who took over as Salmon Evolution’s CEO in January.

“The production facility was previously an abandoned quarry and so adapting the area to suit the needs of the business has kept intrusion into nature at a minimum,” Schaug-Pettersen said.

Indre Harøy is a “strategic location” for the production site, the company says: “…with unlimited access to fresh seawater and renewable energy, our fully developed facility will have an annual capacity of 31,500 tonnes head-on gutted salmon.

Located only a few hours from Indre Harøy, Salmon Evolution Dale is where the company hatches and grows its smolt.

“Salmon Evolution Dale has been a family-owned company since the mid1990s. It’s known as a high-quality supplier

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The company’s latest report says net biomass production for the third quarter totalled 1,290 tonnes and the company said there’s been a steady increase throughout the quarter. As a result, it has now achieved an all-time high standing biomass of around 2,100 tonnes live weight, up by 101% since the end of the second quarter on 30 June.

Meanwhile, the company has, after just 18 months in operation, won accreditation from the Aquaculture Stewardship Council, which represents the achievement of a high bar as regards social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

CEO Schaug-Pettersen concludes: “As we see it, there is now a window of opportunity with limited land-based competition in both Europe and abroad for the foreseeable future. Salmon Evolution aims to be the market leader in the development of land-based salmon farming globally.

“We firmly believe that our highly scalable concept will play an important role in future aquaculture, delivering high-quality salmon at conventional industry cost levels.”

tank never mixes with water in other tanks. Waste is filtered and collected, before being transported to a recirculation plant where it is converted into fertiliser, biogas or similar.

“Optimal current speed gives the salmon exercise, with a lean high-quality product well-suited to be eaten raw.”

Biology first is one of the core pillars for Salmon Evolution and this philosophy also applies to feed.

The company says: “We believe using higher quantities of marine ingredients in the feed is key for delivering world-class quality. Adding microalgae together with fish oil in our feed results in a product with high levels of omega-3.

“Our salmon has a strong and distinctive red colour, highly valued by customers all over the world.

“The key to our success lies in maintaining strict water quality standards, controlling temperature and closely monitoring fish health. By replicating the natural conditions in which salmon thrive, we have achieved remarkable results in terms of growth and fish health. Our commitment to sustainable practices and responsible aquaculture has also contributed to our success.”

Salmon Evolution has global ambitions and is now working to extend its potential to new regions, “with the goal to bring the production of high-quality salmon closer to the consumer,” it says.

“Locally raised means reduced risk during transport and a lower environmental footprint.

“We are dependent upon finding locations with access to high-quality water of a certain temperature. While this puts some limitations on us with respect to locations, there are plenty of places worldwide well-suited for this technology.”

The first of these projects in South Korea where the Norwegian company has teamed with seafood giant Dongwon Industries to develop, construct and operate a land-based salmon facility.

Salmon Evolution has also initiated expansion in North America and is actively pursuing opportunities on both coasts in Canada and the United States.

The company says: “In this way, we will reach our goal of producing 100,000 tonnes of fish annually by 2032, bringing highquality and responsibly farmed salmon closer to our customers.”

Opposite from top: T ank s at I nd r e H ar ø y ; S al mo n ol on a e al o fi re ec e al o care and f eed ing r ed ient s us ed This page from top: I nd r e ar rod c on e n e an a I nd r e H ar ø y

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13/11/2023 14:23:08

SHRIMP

Beyond the

certificate

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OLLOWING successful pilots in different countries, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has presented the development of a framework for credible Aquaculture Improvements Projects (AIPs) under the ASC Improver Programme.

The programme was unveiled at the Global Shrimp Forum last month. ASC secured seafood leader Thai Union as one of its first partners to implement ASC’s AIPs for a total volume of 15,700 metric tonnes of shrimp by 2026. Producers can now apply to enter the programme and receive support to improve their farming operations.

ASC says its mission is to transform the aquaculture industry towards environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

However, not all aquaculture producers are able to meet ASC’s robust and strict standards. For this reason, ASC created the Improver Programme. The programme supports farms who are not ready or eligible for ASC certification but are committed to improving their farming practices. ASC is now launching a credible and transparent model for AIPs designed to facilitate

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ASC’s Improver Programme has launched a framework that offers shrimp producers new possibilities for support and development

improvements and support producers to drive transformational change at scale.

ASC’s AIP framework offers two routes Unlike the fisheries improvements space, the aquaculture industry was lacking a clearly defined AIP framework. For the first time, ASC set a structured approach to monitor AIP progress. Each AIP starts with a baseline measurement, including a gap analysis and a time-bound project plan. Progress needs to be reported on a regular basis and will be verified by independent entities; all this info will be public on the ASC website under the “Find an AIP” search tool.

Producers can choose one of two tracks for their AIP. The first is through the AIP to ASC certification route, where a plan of four phases is defined to improve performance to a level where the producer is ready to begin the ASC certification process by the end of the AIP. The second is the AIP to Better Practices route, which is set out to facilitate producers who do not wish to become ASC certified but want to improve responsible practices in

specific environmental or social areas.

By launching its new AIP model, ASC hopes to push the bar on transparency and credibility in the farmed seafood industry beyond certification. This transparency in turn will drive informed conversations on actions and investments required under an equitable and fair model.

Seafood companies can now play an active role in steering producers within their supply chain towards entering an AIP, which allows visibility of progress and performance over time, clarity on actions and investments required to improve performance, and to bring farms to a level that allows them to apply for ASC certification.

ASC will train a network of qualified implementers and verifiers, as well as cover the costs of verification of an AIP to give back to the industry.

“The launch of this framework for credible AIPs, together with the support and investment that ASC aims to provide to the sector, will be a game changer to the industry,” says Roy van Daatselaar, ASC’s Global Lead Improver Programme.

“Processors and seafood importers can now start an AIP within their supply chain and receive direct support from the ASC in the form of capacity building. Retailers and seafood buyers can now go to our website and see how AIPs are progressing, following independent verification and transparent reporting on progress.”

Pilot projects show the way The first pilots were conducted in Indonesia with PT BMI, Sekar Bumi and JALA, which have all taken part in an AIP to ASC certification. Additionally, ASC is currently running pilots with Lenk Seafood Services and Luna Seafoods, who are working with 125 extensive monodon farmers in Bangladesh and are implementing ASC Group Certification following an AIP. Thai Union, a global seafood leader and stock listed in Thailand, has recently launched their sustainability strategy SeaChange® 2030, which aims to help reshape the seafood industry with solutions

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across people and planet that better sustain a future for all. As part of their commitments, Thai Union will be one of the first setting up an AIP under the Improver Programme by ASC, which aims to bring more than 4,000 metric tonnes up to ASC certification and another 11,700 metric tonnes in volume, implementing best practices in line with the social and water quality requirements of the ASC standards.

“We added Responsible Aquaculture as a new commitment within our SeaChange® 2030 strategy, addressing key impact areas including human and labour rights, health and wellness, climate action, and biodiversity,” says Adam Brennan, Chief Sustainability Officer of Thai Union.

“In July, we committed to 100% of our shrimp and its feed being produced, minimising ecosystem impact and meeting industry best

practices in welfare and working conditions, and that 100% of the farms we source from are a safe and decent workplace by 2030.

With the framework that ASC has introduced, we are able to work with our suppliers on clear action plans, tracking and verification in a way that wasn’t standardised in the past.”

ASC aims to scale up its portfolio in the coming years and offer support to AIPs in southeast Asia and Latin America, while exploring with partners such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Sustainable Fisheries Partnership (SFP) on how improvement efforts can be driven in the wider landscape and at jurisdictional level.

ASC says it welcomes application of shrimp farmers interested in participating in an AIP anywhere in the world.

Interested stakeholders can email the ASC Improver Programme team at aipservice@asc-aqua.org.

Following the launch of the ASC Farm Standard in 2024, ASC plans to open the AIP scope to other species.

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ASC hopes to push the bar on transparency and credibility in the farmed seafood industry

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ENVIRONMENT

Plastic problem The aquaculture sector has a part to play in reducing the amount of plastic waste going into our oceans. By Vince McDonagh

E

VERYONE who took part in the big clean-up around Hardangerfjord last month was shocked to find just how much plastic and other waste material had been dumped in this idyllic Norwegian beauty spot.

Some 15 tonnes of rubbish were taken out – and there is still more left for next year’s operation.

It is encouraging, however, that the aquaculture and fishing industries recognise that, as they are responsible for some of it, they have a duty to put things right.

Their efforts could be helped by a report from the research organisation SINTEF, suggesting there is a substantial commercial potential in the aquaculture sector, in particular to generate circular economy initiatives when it comes to its use of plastics.

SINTEF says results emerging from a recent research project indicate that the aquaculture sector can help to reduce waste and at the same time generate income by recycling its hard plastics.

Some of their industry partners, Plasto, Oceanize and Grieg Seafood, together with Aqua Group, have developed the world’s first fish pen walkways made from recycled plastics.

SINTEF researcher Sigrid Damman says: “We’ve been looking into everything

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from administrative terms of reference to rules and regulations, the current state of our knowledge and not least, levels of acceptance within the industry.

“These factors are just as important to enable circular use of plastic as any technological developments,” she suggests.

But Damman also points out that the creation of so-called circular economies can be a complex process: “Firstly, we have to be aware of the opportunities available when it comes to utilising resources.

“Then we have to have stable administrative and regulatory frameworks in place. The latter will enable us to utilise

new materials and products without entailing high levels of risk. Moreover, the right legislation and regulations must be in place to facilitate new initiatives.”

This is why the researchers are now presenting specific recommendations both to the aquaculture sector and the public authorities.

They are currently working on a project called POCOplast, which has been established to look into all aspects of the value chain – from the manufacturers of plastic components to those that supply both components and services, as well as the aquaculture companies, which in turn deliver used plastics for recycling.

The team at SINTEF have been working together with seven partners to conduct a thorough analysis based in part on almost 30 interviews with a variety of stakeholders.

“We’ve been looking into what goes on among the various actors in the value chain and have also tried to understand the barriers that exist in the current regulations,” says Damman.

She adds: “The EU has already made a number of amendments to its rules and regulations, and is also offering more funding for research.

“Perhaps we can go even further by requiring that recycled plastic material be incorporated during the manufacture of industrial plastic products. This will

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We ought to be setting more specific targets for the levels of incorporation of recycled material

Opposite from top: la c clean a ardan er ord S r d a an S Below: eac clean

boost development but it will be a bad move to stipulate new requirements before we’re sure that we have sufficient capacity in place.

“Nevertheless, we ought to be setting more specific targets for the levels of incorporation of recycled material in the manufacture of industrial hard plastics.”

Damman says that while many companies are interested in recycling plastic and developing new products, they are also demanding assurances when it comes to reliability of supply of recycled plastic materials.

“For example, it’s crucial to users that they have reliable access to material of uniform quality,” she says. “And those who receive the plastics for recycling have to know that there is sufficient demand.

They also need to be able to document that they are supplying plastic that meets the needs of their own customers.”

SINTEF researchers believe that a key to success is extended producer responsibility, which will be extended to plastics used in fishery and aquaculture before the end of 2024. This will place complete responsibility for the product life cycle on the producers, while the recycling will have to be carried out by approved recycling companies.

While some public research and development funding is available already, there is a call for dedicated programmes supporting innovation and collaboration along the whole value chain.

Damman said: “The happy outcome of all this is that we will be able to create new products and jobs in the districts, based on resources that were previously classified as waste.

“The most important thing here is to set targets for materials recycling, including industrial hard plastics. This will offer greater predictability, which will in turn encourage a greater willingness among actors to invest in circular economy systems.”

Scottish Sea Farms’ beach clean record

Above: Sco

Sea ar

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eac

lean r ll

NORWAY is not the only country where fish farmers are engaging with plastic waste. Last autumn, for the fifth year running, Scottish Sea Farms took part in the Great British Beach Clean, helping to clear debris from the coastline around Shetland, Orkney and the Scottish mainland.

The staff with family members, friends and members of the public took part in the event, which is overseen nationwide by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS).

The beach clean teams removed litter but they also recorded what they found to help the MCS compile a national database to inform and shape future policy around protecting the marine environment.

To date, beach cleans have revealed a high proportion of plastic and polystyrene among the rubbish collected, as well as metal, wood, pottery and ceramics, glass, paper and cardboard, rubber, cloth and sanitary waste.

Ocean circulation, ice melt and tourism could all be factors A new study measuring microplastic concentrations in the highly productive Barents Sea suggests that ocean circulation, ice melt, tourism, inadequate waste management, shipping and fishing are all likely contributors.

Dr Rachel Coppock, Marine Ecologist at Plymouth Marine Laboratory and co-author of the study said: “The Arctic region is remote and most of us might imagine that it is a pristine natural wonder. But once microplastics enter the marine environment, they are transported on currents, often from populated areas many thousands of miles away, ending up far from the source and in the case of the high Arctic, may become trapped in sea ice and released during the spring melt.”

Heather Emberson-Marl, lead author on the paper and MSc student with the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory, said: “It is apparent that microplastic data from the Arctic is limited and this study will act as a reference point for further research. Additionally, sampling methods between studies of microplastics within the Arctic vary and the differing units of measurement used in previous research make it difficult to draw comparisons.

She added: “We recommend that future studies should strive for a standardised sampling protocol to allow for direct comparisons and more robust conclusions on the ecological and toxicological effects on the Arctic’s marine biology.”

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OFFSHORE FARMING

Uncharted waters

Norway’s aquaculture industry is poised for an exciting move offshore if government can help create the right environment, reports Robert Outram

Top: S al M ar A k er Ocean F ar m 1 Above: M ap s h o w ing de na ed o ore f ar ming ar eas Opposite from top: N o r w ay ’ s e er ence n o ore ener g y co ul d h el p aq uacul t ur e; L o v und l ak s ins h o r e f ar m

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N July last year, the Norwegian government designated three offshore zones as potential trial areas for finfish farming.

More recently, in September, SalMar Aker Ocean – a joint venture between fish farmer SalMar and engineering group Aker – was granted permission for a development site to test the company’s Smart Fish Farm in an exposed location.

A report by Menon Economics for research institute SINTEF estimated that offshore aquaculture, in an active year, could generate NOK 13.9bn (about £1bn) and 7,400 jobs for Norway, taking operations and construction together. This is based on a scenario in which offshore production reaches around a third of existing inshore production.

Norway is undoubtedly at the forefront of offshore aquaculture. The potential is clearly exciting but so far what we are seeing is a trickle rather than a flood of companies investing in the sector.

What is causing the reluctance? One factor is the intrinsic level of risk – both financial risk and the unknowns associated with taking both biology and engineering into new territory.

Another is the need for certainty in terms of the tax and regulatory framework – which it seems is not there yet.

Technically, when we are talking about the latest frontier in offshore aquaculture, this refers to installations 12 nautical miles or more from the coast, beyond territorial waters. This is a challenge the industry has not fully taken on even though it is already developing the technology to do so.

Aquaculture has for some time been pushing the boundaries in terms of placing fish cages in increasingly exposed locations.

This is partly due to advances in technology, which have made it possible and partly due to lack of space to grow in inshore locations.

Environmental factors and political pushback mean that fish farms cannot be packed into fjords and lochs.

Despite the challenges of exposed, highenergy locations, they also carry advantages.

Challenges from diseases, parasites and algal

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blooms may be less compared with inshore locations. Strong currents and tidal flows help to disperse waste in a way that is less harmful to the environment. And after all, the open sea is where mature salmon spend most of their lives.

Taxing questions Ole Fretheim, Chief Adviser, Aquaculture Technology with the Norwegian Seafood Federation, says: “The potential for offshore aquaculture is equal to, or more than, the production we currently have close to shore.

“The requirement for investment is not comparable, however, because it requires much more capital spend.

“Investment in on-land production facilities will also be required to grow bigger smolts for the offshore farms and companies will need to invest in vessels.”

And there lies the problem – investment in offshore fish farming is inherently risky and it requires a commitment at scale. With so many unknowns, the greater clarity regarding the government’s stance, the better.

On tax, for example, so far the government has said that offshore operations will not be subject to the new ground rent tax for fish farmers (also known as the salmon tax), for now at least.

Last month, the government said that because the sector is still in the development stage, it will not consider extending the tax to offshore sites until the industry becomes profitable. The statement declined to suggest what a suitable tax formula might be for offshore aquaculture, explaining: “The sea is not a limited national site in the same way as the Norwegian fjords. Aquaculture at sea can be a more mobile business, depending on how the sea cages are designed.”

Given that the new tax was introduced so abruptly, with little consultation or warning, and then backdated to 1 January this year (even though at that time the details had not been thrashed out), the latest statement does not necessarily give much comfort.

Fretheim says: “The issue is about predictability, not just about the ground rent tax. If there is no predictability, the risk attached to investment is very high.”

Although some aspects of regulation for this new sector have been laid out, the industry is now waiting for a final framework from the authorities. More consultation is expected this year and next.

Fretheim says: “It is hoped that next year, government will decide on the qualification criteria for companies applying for offshore licences.

They may also be allocated via an auction process but this has not been decided yet.”

Tax has certainly been an issue for Utror, the offshore farming subsidiary set up by salmon farmer Lovundlaks. In its response to the consultation on the ground rent tax earlier this year, the company

said: “We feel that the proposal violates the government’s stated ambition to facilitate offshore aquaculture and would like to emphasise that regulatory and political predictability are critical success factors if we are to succeed with offshore aquaculture in Norway. A predictable and well-structured tax system forms an important part of this… we look forward to continuing the dialogue with the authorities and stakeholders in this area in the coming period.

“With the right adjustments, we strongly believe that it is still possible to succeed with offshore aquaculture in Norway, so that we can maintain our position as the world’s leading aquaculture nation – also with ground rent tax.”

Utror was established by Lovundlaks in 2021 “to take a leading role in the development of offshore farming.”

In 2022, former SalMar and SalMar Aker Ocean executive Olav-Andreas Ervik joined Utror as CEO. The company’s stated aim is to have its first offshore unit in place during 2025, with the first release of fish into the sea cages in 2026. The likely site will be off Helgeland, the most southerly district of northern Norway.

The energy advantage While offshore aquaculture and its challenges will require new expertise, the industry in Norway can draw on the accumulated experience of the offshore energy sector, where placing installations in difficult and high-energy waters has been the norm for many years.

As Fretheim puts it: “Norway’s offshore energy and maritime competence, with aquaculture competence, makes for a unique combination.”

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OFFSHORE FARMING

Aquaculture will, to some extent, be competing for space with another growing industry – offshore wind farms. Marine engineering consultancy DNV, in a report published in March this year, predicted that by 2050 offshore wind would account for 80% of stationary infrastructure in the oceans globally, compared with just 15% now.

Aquaculture and renewable energy might also be a position to help each other, however.

Fretheim says: “There are many synergies with energy – for example linking offshore wind turbines to fish farms to provide power – but also in terms of transport, logistics, safety etc.”

SalMar Aker Ocean is certainly keen to go ahead. Speaking in September after a location for the company’s Smart Fish Farm had been given the green light, CEO Roy Reite said: “This is an important step forward in realising the potential of offshore aquaculture. The next important milestones for us are the clarifications relating to ground rent tax and the regulatory framework for offshore aquaculture.”

SalMar and Aker have great ambitions for their joint venture. By the end of 2030, SalMar Aker Ocean aims to sustainably produce 150,000 tonnes of salmon per year at fish farms far out to sea.

Achievement of its production targets in 2030 will, the company says, make SalMar Aker Ocean one of the world’s largest producers of farmed salmon. It adds: “Along the way, huge opportunities will be opened up for a Norwegian supply industry in transition. SalMar Aker Ocean has documented ripple effects in the form of thousands of industrial and engineering jobs in Norway, and will be at the forefront of ensuring sustainable growth on the salmon’s terms.”

SalMar Aker Ocean has completed two successful production cycles at the pioneering Ocean Farm 1 installation, located off the coast of Trøndelag, Norway. The experience thus gained will be incorporated into the new and larger Ocean Farm 2, which is under development.

The company aims to site the world’s first purely offshore fish farm, called the Smart Fish Farm, approximately 50 nautical miles

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west of Frøya in central Norway. SalMar’s Founder and Chairman, Gustav Witzøe, has warned, however, that clarity over the tax situation will be essential if the project is to be the model for a thriving industry.

In September this year, he said: “If the ground rent tax is not clarified, there will be no offshore activity in Norway. And it is not clarified. Politicians and the industry as such have two points of view on how this industry should be developed.”

Jostein Albert – almost offshore One of the other likely contenders in this potential industry is Nordlaks, which has also invested in fish farm infrastructure built to withstand exposed conditions. In 2015 Nordlaks was the first salmon producer to apply for the new class of development permits, created by the Norwegian government to encourage innovation in the sector.

Nordlaks’ project was the Ocean Farm called Jostein Albert, located on the site Ytre Hadseløy in Hadsel municipality in Nordland.

The location is approximately five kilometres from land and is the most exposed location for farming in operation in Norway today. It is licensed to produce 10,000 tonnes of salmon.

The Ocean Farm (or HavFarm) is something like a cross between a conventional salmon cage and an oceangoing vessel.

It is 385 meters long and 59.5 meters wide, and is moored with 11 anchors, each weighing 22 tonnes.

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The issue is about predictability, not just about the ground rent tax

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Jostein Albert has successfully produced four generations of salmon and is now part of Nordlaks’ regular operations. There are no plans, however, to install this farm or a similar farm in a fully offshore location.

A spokesman for the company said: “The new tax on salmon production in Norway has put several projects on hold due to uncertainty in the layout of the taxation. Full scale offshore production is a high-risk investment, which is not covered by the new tax system. The risk-reward is asymmetrical at the time being.”

Even so, the investment has been valuable for Nordlaks, the spokesman said: “The Ocean Farm has been a boost for Nordlaks.

It has triggered new investments all over the company and created several hundred new jobs as a consequence of the increased production. Salmon production is going according to plan.

“The biggest challenge apart from the economic aspect is harsh weather conditions in the northern part of Norway.”

What happens next The three areas designated for offshore development by the Norwegian government are Trænabanken, Frøyabanken Nord and Sørlige Norskerenna. They are relatively close to the coast but, at between 20 and 80 nautical miles from shore, they are considerably further out than any existing fish farming sites.

As Ole Fretheim explains, in the coming year we can expect to see more detail on regulation and also the criteria for qualification for applicants. The government is likely to set the bar reasonably high to ensure that only applications from serious operators, with the required expertise and capital clout, will need to be considered.

That may be followed by an auction process, although this is has yet to be confirmed.

Fretheim stresses: “There needs to be a regulatory framework in place. It is important that this allows the companies to scale up – no-one wants to build just one or two farms. They are looking to keep their costs down and for the farms to be profitable.”

The Menon Economics report also stresses the need to ensure that tax does not become a trap for investing companies: “As a minimum, the authorities should make it clear that – if one day a ground rent tax is introduced on offshore aquaculture – they will provide a cost refund with retroactive effect. This can help to reduce investors’ fear of limited upside that is not matched by a symmetrical reduction in the downside and again increase the likelihood that profitable aquaculture-to-sea projects will be realised.”

Whether this or any future government is ready to provide such an assurance is another question. As Ole Fretheim puts it: “Right now, there has been some loss of trust.”

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13/11/2023 14:09:41

GLOBAL PRODUCTION SURVEY

On course for growth Worldwide production of the top five farmed species is set to increase, an international report predicts GLOBAL FINFISH PRODUCTION ESTIMATES

SPECIES

CAGR 2011-21

2022 2023 2024 2025 expected expected expected expected

CARP PANGASIUS TILAPIA ATLANTIC SALMON SEA BASS & SEA BREAM

3.2% 4.1% 5.4%

2.1% 8.8% 4.6%

1.2% 0.5% 5.3%

0.8% 2.8% 5.0%

6.5%

-1.2%

0.5%

4.3%

3.9%

5.7%

3.6%

2.8%

3.9%

4.7%

GLOBAL PRODUCTION KEY SPECIES

These species, according to estimates from the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), represent at least 41% of the total aquaculture production (39.6 and 40.4 MMT respectively, live weight) projected for 2023 and 2024, excluding algae.

SALMONIDS

P

RODUCTION for the five key finfish species in aquaculture is set for modest but measurable growth over the next few years.

That’s the prediction set out in the annual Global Finfish Aquaculture Production Survey and Forecast, published by the Global Seafood Alliance (GSA) and prepared in collaboration with Gorjan Nikolik of Rabobank and Ragnar Nystøyl of Kontali.

The report was presented at the recent Responsible Seafood Summit 2023 held in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada and is based on data gathered from producers around the world.

The survey focuses on the five farmed fish species that are most economically significant.

Survey results indicate that the world’s production of these five species/groups – carp, tilapia, pangasius and catfish, salmonids, and sea bass and sea bream – in 2023 will likely be around 39.6 million metric tons (MMT), up about 1.8% from the 38.9 MMT reported in the 2022 survey. For 2024, production from these species/groups is projected to grow by 2% to around 40.4 MMT.

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Data from Kontali indicates that global production of farmed Atlantic salmon, after being relatively flat in 2022 and 2023 at 2.86 and 2.87 MMT respectively, could enjoy growth of 4.3 and 3.9% respectively, with potential production of 2.99 and 3.12 MMT in 2024 and 2025 respectively. Farmed salmon has outrun the wild-caught sector, not just in volume but also in value per unit. Some Asian markets have seen losses while the North American market has enjoyed strong growth to around 700,000 MT in 2022. Most producers of farmed Atlantic salmon are expecting higher production in 2023 and forward, led by Norway (1.52 MMT in 2022, 1.53 MMT in 2023, 1.58 MMT in 2024 and 1.66 MMT in 2025).

Coho salmon production, strongly led by Chile, for salmon years 2022/2023 is estimated at 234,600 MMT, up to 296,500 MMT in 2023/2024 and down to 239,200 MMT in 2023/2025.

Large rainbow trout production, grown in seawater to more than

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2kg and led by Chile and Norway, continues to grow steadily from 303,200 MMT in 2022 to 301,500 MMT in 2023, 313,000 MMT in 2024 and 337,000 MMT in 2025. Data for small rainbow trout production, grown in freshwater to less than 2kg and led

by Iran and Turkey, shows decline with total 2022 production of 676,700 MMT, 676,100 MMT in 2023 and 668,000 MMT in 2024.

”

Farmed salmon has outrun the wild-caught sector

TILAPIA production of 3.11 MMT), led by Vietnam with 1.62 MMT and followed by India, Indonesia, Bangladesh and China.

CARP

After a pause in 2020, global tilapia supply growth seems to have recovered and is expected to reach the 7 MMT mark in 2024. Global production of farmed tilapia in 2023 is projected at 6.7 MMT, up about 5% over 2022 levels and 7.03 MMT in 2024, up another 5% from 2023 volumes.

The main producers of farmed tilapia are still China, Indonesia, Egypt and Brazil. The first two countries will each produce over 1.6 MMT in 2023, with Egypt’s 2023 production estimated at over 1.1 MMT. In China, tilapia appears to be a mature sector with modest expansion; however, Indonesia is still on a rapid growth path with expected growth of 5 and 3.7% in 2023 and 2024 respectively. There are some strong growth volumes among other Asian tilapia producers, including Bangladesh, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and others. In Latin America, the top producer is Brazil with around 400,000 MT in 2023.

Carp as a group comprises – including Chinese (grass, silver, bighead, common and black carps) and Indian major carps (catla, rohu and mrigal) – the largest cluster of species in terms of volume produced, with little international trade of these species but having nutritional impact for millions of people.

Global production of all carps is estimated at over 25 MMT in 2023, with China producing at least 16.7 MMT and followed

by India with at least 6.2 MMT. Production in 2023 grew an estimated 1.2% from 2022 and is projected to increase by 0.8% in 2024. In China, production of carps appears to be slowing down further to 1% growth per year, with other main carp producers, especially India, also slowing down their supply growth rate.

PANGASIUS SEA BASS AND SEA BREAM

These species are mostly grown in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, although there is some limited production in other areas.

Production of both species combined is projected to reach 596,550 MT in 2023, up 2.9% from 2022 and 624,550 in 2024, up 3.9% from 2023.

Greece and Turkey are the main producers. Production is expected to have two strong years of growth in 2024 and 2025, driven in part by Turkey’s expansion. By 2025, Croatia is likely to be the new fourth-placed producer, overtaking Italy but well behind Spain.

OUTLOOK

Pangasius supply is still to recover to the supply levels reached in 2019. Global supply is driven by Vietnam, now in gradual recovery mode but still well below the supply of 2019.

Production is estimated at 3.13 MMT in 2023 (up 0.5% from 2022

Overall, the Global Finfish Aquaculture Production Survey and Forecast expects that figures for 2023 will show a modest decline in supply for the five key species.

The report predicts growth, even if it’s not spectacular growth, for these finfish sectors in 2024 in a range between 0.8% and 5%.

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13/11/2023 14:04:17

FISH HEALTH AND WELFARE

Insights from

Vienna

A

s reported in last month’s Fish Farmer, the EAS Conference in Vienna brought together academics and industry experts from Europe and beyond to share knowledge and present findings from their research.

Here are short summaries of just four of these. The abstracts of all the papers presented in Vienna can be found at aquaeas.org/program/ sessions/AE2023 Connectivity between aquaculture sites: risk of particle transport and associated disease Nina Blöecher, Ole Jacob Broch, Oliver Floerl SINTEF Ocean, 7030 Trondheim, Norway Biofouling is a problem for any manmade structure in the marine environment and fish farming pens and cages are no

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The 2023 European Aquaculture Society (EAS) Conference provided a chance to share findings from studies across Europe

exception. Net cleaning is a regular requirement but there is a risk that cleaning operations can result in harm to the farmed fish.

This was the problem that Nina Blöecher, Ole Jacob Broch and Oliver Floerl of SINTEF Ocean set out to explore.

During the cleaning process, waste is released and is able to disperse within the pen and farm site. This includes remnants of hydroids, marine organisms often linked with gill disease.

Contact with these hydroid particles can cause gill injuries lasting for up to seven days (Blöecher, N, et al, Effects of cnidarian biofouling on salmon gill health and development of amoebic gill disease). In addition, hydroids and other biofouling organisms can harbour pathogens. Could dispersal of their fragments via currents contribute to the spread of disease between pens or farm sites?

The SINTEF study used a hydrodynamic particle tracking

Above: S al mo n Left: N ina B l ö ech er Opposite from top:

H y d r o z o ans ; Er ik S and b l o m

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The aquaculture industry should consider the potentially detrimental effects of rapid smolt growth rate on coronary health

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Coronary lesions in salmonid fish: impact on environmental and aquaculture stress tolerance Erik Sandblom of the University of Gothenburg, Sweden plus colleagues from Sweden, Norway, Austria and the Faroe Islands.

Some fishes including salmonids have a coronary circulation that supplies the outer compact myocardium of the heart with fully oxygenated arterial blood. It has been found that farmed fish more frequently develop lesions and arteriosclerosis in the main coronary artery. The researchers for this study set out to see how these and the resulting reduced flow of blood to the myocardium might impact overall cardiac and metabolic performance, and possibly the fish’s tolerance to environmental stressors.

The study involved surgically ligating (tying up) the coronary artery to mimic extreme coronary arteriosclerosis and exploring its impact on cardiovascular performance and metabolic scope, as well as hypoxia and warming tolerance limits. A control group (the “sham” group) were operated on but not ligated.

IMPROVED IMPROVED IMPROVED

model to examine the spread of biofouling particles arising from in-situ net cleaning operations at a case-study farm located in mid-Norway. The researchers determined, in particular, the potential extent to which these particles could be transported to neighbouring farms.

The model, which simulated net cleaning operations, indicated that high concentrations of particles could be released, leading to the fish in the cleaned pens being exposed as well as those in neighbouring pens.

As a consequence, fish in individual pens were exposed to hydroid particles multiple times while these or surrounding pens were being cleaned, increasing the risk for encountering harmful particles. With recovery times after one-time exposure taking up to one week, repeated exposure may contribute to worsening gill conditions in salmon during time at sea, the researchers say.

Hydroid particles could be dispersed as far as 4.8km and, the paper points out, more than 60% of the salmon farms along the Norwegian coast have at least one nearest neighbouring farm within this distance.

The SINTEF team advise: “Novel cleaning tools that avoid the release of biofouling particles via containment or more regular cleaning (grooming) of nets have the potential to reduce gill damage arising from biofouling maintenance operations as well as the spread of potentially harmful particles.”

FISH HEALTH & WELFARE MORTALITY RATES STABLE, CONTROLLED GROWTH LONGEVITY & EFFICACY FISH HEALTH & WELFARE FISH HEALTH & WELFARE BEHAVIOURAL CONDITIONING MORTALITY RATES MORTALITY RATES PRACTICAL FEEDING METHODS STABLE, CONTROLLED GROWTH STABLE, CONTROLLED GROWTH DAILY OPERATIONAL COSTS LONGEVITY & EFFICACY LONGEVITY & EFFICACY BEHAVIOURAL CONDITIONING BEHAVIOURAL CONDITIONING PRACTICAL FEEDING METHODS PRACTICAL FEEDING METHODS SEA LICE POPULATIONS DAILY OPERATIONAL COSTS DAILY OPERATIONAL COSTS CATARACT PREVALENCE AGGRESSION DURING FEEDING ENERGY CONSUMPTION SEA LICE POPULATIONS SEA LICE POPULATIONS STORAGE SPACE & COSTS CATARACT PREVALENCE CATARACT PREVALENCE MEDICAL TREATMENTS AGGRESSION DURING FEEDING AGGRESSION DURING FEEDING FEED PREPARATION TIME ENERGY CONSUMPTION ENERGY CONSUMPTION STORAGE SPACE & COSTS STORAGE SPACE & COSTS MEDICAL TREATMENTS MEDICAL TREATMENTS FEED PREPARATION TIME FEED PREPARATION TIME

THE INNOVATIVE SOLUTION TO CLEANER FISH MANAGEMENT & SEA LICE CONTROL

www.vitaaquafeeds.uk THE INNOVATIVE SOLUTION TO CLEANER FISH Produced in the UK by MANAGEMENT & SEA LICE CONTROL

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FISH HEALTH AND WELFARE

After the procedure, the fish were typically left to recover from surgery for 24 to 48 hours in respirometers to record oxygen consumption rate. They were then exposed to various metabolic and environmental challenges including exhaustive exercise, acute warming and aquatic hypoxia.

Even for the ligated trout, cardiac output and standard metabolic rate were maintained via an increase in heart rate.

Compared with the control group, however, they were less able to deal with exhaustive exercise, hypoxia (reduced oxygen) and acute warming.

The researchers conclude: “Collectively, our findings show that coronary perfusion [the flow through coronary arteries] improves cardiac O2 supply and overall cardiorespiratory function at environmental extremes, which benefits tolerance to environmental and anthropogenic metabolic challenges. The aquaculture industry should, therefore, consider the potentially detrimental effects of rapid smolt growth rate on coronary health and functionality as this may result in raising fish that are more susceptible to environmental and metabolic stressors in challenging farm environments.

“In light of these findings, we are currently conducting several new experiments to shed light on how juvenile rearing conditions subsequently impact cardiac and coronary health of the adult fish.”

Beating the heart failure odds: electrocardiography as a screening tool for detecting heart diseases in farmed salmonids Lucas Zena of the University of Gothenburg, Sweden and colleagues from Sweden, Norway and the Faroe Islands.

In a study linked to the preceding research, a multinational team also looked at how heart disease in salmonids could be identified.

Fish mortalities often occur during stressful handling events such as grading, parasite treatment and transportation, but the specific reasons behind these deaths are unclear. However, a growing body of evidence indicates that heart failure is the cause of death in many fish. Indeed, salmonid fishes can develop a range of cardiovascular diseases that affect both the heart and blood vessels. For instance, farmed salmonids are reported to have a high prevalence of coronary arteriosclerosis, which may constrain blood flow to the heart, making it less resilient to stress.

This study set out to tackle a key problem – the lack of effective screening tools for monitoring cardiovascular health to early detect heart diseases in salmonids.

The researchers say: “In human medicine, electrocardiogram (ECG) analyses are widely used for screening and diagnosing various cardiac pathologies, but this has so far not been widely applied in fish. The present study was designed to comprehensively evaluate the suitability of ECG recordings as a screening tool for heart disease in salmonid fish.

Specifically, we mapped abnormalities in the ECG following experimentally induced myocardial ischemia in rainbow trout with surgically ligated coronaries.”

One group of trout was subject to ligation (tying) of the main coronary artery to simulate heart disease, while another “sham” group were operated on but not ligated. Both groups had ECG electrodes implanted to monitor heart performance.

After experiments to see how the fish reacted to an elevated heart rate, the fish were euthanised and their hearts were removed and examined.

The coronary ligated fish had comparatively pale hearts relative to the vivid red hearts of sham-operated fish.

While all sham-operated fish survived, there was only a 55% survival rate among the coronary ligated fish at 10 days postsurgery. Four out of five deceased fish showed signs of blood accumulation in the pericardial sac of the heart (hemopericardium) at necropsy; this was likely due to atrial/ventricular rupture.

The study concludes: “ECG analyses of both anaesthetised and unanaesthetised fish have the potential to be used for screening and diagnosis cardiac diseases in salmonid fish. Our intention is now to apply this technique under farming conditions as a quick and non-lethal screening tool to predict and reduce the risk of mortality from heart disease in farmed salmonids.”

Above: R ainb o w t r o ut Below: ECG mo nit o r s

ar e us ed in h uman h eal t h car e – co ul d e or or fi

”

Salmonid fishes can develop a range of cardiovascular diseases 54

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LAND-BASED FARMING Global roundup

Careers in aquaculture

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Vienna

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Report from Aquaculture Europe 2023

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PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS

NOVEMBER 2023

A look ahead to Trondheim

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The state of the industry

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HPMAS

CRAWFISH

Backlash gains momentum

Shellfish

What goes around The

r

re o o

Careers

The fight over water quality

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WOMEN IN AQUACULTURE

11/07/2023 11:50:44

LAND BASED

W hy f armers are op ting f or b ig g er p ens

N ew R A S p roj ec ts around the world

Will the industry expand offshore?

SEA POWER Making boats and barges greener

Sea lice

Lessons from an island nation

Lumpfish Conference PINK INVASION

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HEALTH

M ussels and more

Tak ing c are of o rfi h

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t e rofit this time round?

UNAFFJORDABLE?

Ukraine

Early warning for bio-hazards

Aquaculture in a war zone

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Little wonders

ASSG Conference

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What it means for the industry

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Boats and barges THE COST OF WAR Sanctions and the seafood sector

Nigeria

Building an industry

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Selling salmon to China

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to the open sea?

OFFSHORE

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Reaction to Norway’s new tax

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The global market in 2022 FISH HEALTH

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Why fish farms may not be to blame

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Hybrid approach is paying off

How Pacific salmon threaten native species

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a e

o

on S

S

FISH HEALTH AND WELFARE

The BKD mystery

The source of a series of outbreaks of bacterial kidney disease in Norway has yet to be identified, reports Vince McDonagh

B

ACTERIAL kidney disease (BKD) has been detected at several locations in central Norway since the start of the year, the country’s Veterinary Institute has reported, and its spread is slightly puzzling marine veterinarians.

Salmon farms are mainly being affected but there has been at least one incident involving a trout farm.

The development is the latest in various biological issues affecting parts of the Norwegian coast this year.

• Infectious salmon anaemia (ISA) has also been prevalent, with the number of outbreaks in the first half of this year already passing the total for 2022.

• The main areas affected by BKD include Trøndelag, Møre and Romsdal counties, and the Vestland region.

liver, kidney and spleen are often pale. It is known to cause up to 80% mortality in Pacific salmon and 40% in Atlantic salmon but, like ISA, it has no implications for human health.

Norway’s Food Safety Authority, Mattilsynet, says the disease is contagious and can have serious consequences for the health and welfare of both farmed and wild salmon.

Earlier this year, BKD was detected or suspected at four salmon farms in central Norway. All four, in an area known as PO6, are managed by the Lerøy Midt division of the Lerøy Seafood Company.

Mattilsynet said at the time: “…it took more than a year from the time smolt were released until BKD was detected in the first of the four plants.

“This may indicate that the source of infection is not smolt, but another, for example from wild fish in the area.”

The authority also said it appears that the disease could have spread between neighbouring facilities by wellboats and lice treatment vessels. This means there is a risk of infection at all facilities in the PO6 area.

The time it has taken from possible contact until infection is registered appears to be three to four months.

The Veterinary Institute says the primary source for the latest infections this autumn is unknown, but it is thought that wellboats, delousing vessels and other fish farming equipment have contributed to the spread of the disease along the coast of central Norway.

The Institute is now in the process of whole-genome sequencing of bacteria that have been cultivated in connection with this year’s outbreak and previous outbreaks. The results should reveal whether it has resulted from a single introduction or several.

BKD has previously been found in fresh and seawater locations in England, Scotland and Wales, but not Northern Ireland. It is a notifiable disease in the UK.

”

The disease is contagious and can have serious consequences

Above: A s t ained k id ney p r int f r o m a fi n ec ed Renibacterium salmoninarum Below: S al mo n f ar m, N o r w ay

The Institute says BKD is caused by infection with the bacterium Renibacterium salmoniarum. The bacterium grows slowly and it can take a long time to show clinical signs after fish become infected.

BKD is a chronic disease and was first reported in the wild Atlantic salmon populations in the rivers Spey and Dee in Scotland in the early 1930s.

Subsequently BKD has been found in both wild and farmed salmonid populations in Norway, North and South America, continental Europe and Japan.

Clinical signs include darkening of the skin, pale gills, fluid in the abdomen, a distended abdomen, protruding eyes and pinpoint bruising. Fish appear anaemic and lack food in the gut. The

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FISH HEALTH AND WELFARE

A word in urea

A compound often fed to cattle might help to reduce the impact of stress on salmon

Nofima will conduct a range of analyses to explore urea’s impact on skin, gills and intestinal barrier functions. Leveraging AI technology, the researchers will carry out objective histological evaluations on a substantial number of samples.

The study will benefit, Nofima says, from the comparison of field observations, encompassing morphology, welfare scores, lice

oo

el e S od n

ofi a

U

rea, an organic compound also called carbamide, is widely used as a feed additive for cattle and other ruminants.

It is a nitrogen source and has been found to improve digestion, especially under poor grazing conditions.

Now, Norwegian food research institute Nofima has launched a study to investigate whether urea could also offer health benefits for salmonids.

The hope is that it could reduce the effect of wounds, improve mucus production and facilitate greater tolerance of seawater during stressful events.

The 2021 Fish Health Report from the Norwegian Veterinary Institute identifies ulcers with bacterial infections, along with handling-induced wounds, as the primary health concerns within current salmon farming practices. These issues have detrimental effects on fish welfare, Nofima says, and contribute to escalated mortality rates. Moreover, these issues may challenge the fish’s seawater tolerance due to stress and ulceration.

Past studies by Nofima have examined the effects of urea additives in salmonids’ feeds, particularly its role as an osmolyte to enhance seawater tolerance and mitigate water loss in salmon muscles during low sea temperatures. The inclusion of urea led to reduced drinking needs, increased muscle water content, improved growth rates and fewer cases of winter ulcers. Additionally, studies have indicated that incorporating urea into rainbow trout feed can stimulate greater mucus production in both skin and gills.

In this project, the institute’s primary goal is to re-evaluate and explore the viability of urea additives in addressing ongoing health challenges in seawater-farmed salmon. Specifically, the study aims to reduce issues related to winter ulcers, wound development and mechanical injuries that result from handling and delousing.

The project will be conducted under Nofima’s R&D licences at various locations in Norway, allowing researchers to examine urea’s efficacy under diverse conditions, including varying latitudes with distinct sea temperatures, delousing/handling requirements and disease scenarios.

The key goal is to examine urea’s impact on mucus production, wound development, seawater tolerance and overall fish welfare in farmed salmon. Subsidiary goals include: • Investigate the influence of urea on gill and skin health, with a specific focus on mucus production. This involves analysing mucus cell density, size and quantifying neutral and acidic mucus cells.

• Explore the mechanisms behind urea’s effects on the barrier function of skin, gills and intestines. Assess whether a correlation exists between this phenomenon and protection against ulcers, lice and osmotic imbalances.

• Identify urea’s impact on osmotic, ionic and metabolic processes in blood, kidneys, gills and liver. Additionally, explore how these processes influence seawater tolerance under stressors such as salinity changes, handling and diseases.

• Ensure that the inclusion of urea in feed does not adversely affect quality or sensory attributes within specified retention periods.

counts, etc with production data. This will be a comprehensive approach involving blood chemistry assessments, gene expression studies and tissue analyses.

Urea already plays a part in keeping farmed terrestrial species healthy – the hope is that it could also do that for salmon.

Above: P r o j ect manag er J ens - Er ik D es s en w eig h s s al mo n o n t h e r es ear ch p er mit t h at ofi a a co loca ed lo fi ar n o de er en

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WELLFISH TECH – CLIENT CONTENT

Welfare has just gone Tech

The latest analytical techniques make it possible to obtain a more rounded view of the health of stock

P h o t o : W el l F is h T ech

S

ince the arrival of SARS Covid 19 into the UK, it is believed that more than 70% of the population have, at some point, been infected with the virus. Of course, “infected with” is not always the same as “suffering from”, and this distinction lies at the very heart of WellFish Tech’s approach to monitoring fish health.

WellFish have now processed and examined over 500,000 blood biochemistry end points from Atlantic salmon. Within this rapidly expanding data set, patterns in biomarker profiles have emerged that are indicative not just of the animal’s general state of health, but more specifically that of individual organ systems, such as gill, pancreas and liver, cardiac and skeletal muscle etc. This level of granularity provides important additional context when clinical biochemistry reveals a population of fish to be “healthcompromised”.

Often biomarker profiles will shift away from “normal” in apparently healthy stock which, when subjected to subsequent further analysis, are shown to be either positive for an infectious agent or exposed to very low levels of harmful marine biota.

Conversely fish which have tested positive for a particular pathogen are not always clinically sick – infective with but not suffering from.

Knowledge of both these states allows health and production managers to reach

Above: S al mo n b eing s amp l ed f o r cl inical b io ch emis t r y at K ames

”

informed stock management decisions, especially where those decisions may have an impact on survival.

Quite apart from the hard metric of survival, “knowing” the health of a stock, rather than just its disease status, is front and centre in welfare management – which, for the first time, can now be described numerically.

This level of granularity provides important additional context

Know their health.

Talk to us about support for your health and welfare management programme.

UK and Ireland Chris Mitchell chris.mitchell@wellfishtech.com +44(0)7769 330540

Norway Amund Litlabø amund.litlabo@wellfishtech.com +47 415 20 910

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PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

What’s NEW Monthly update on industry innovations and solutions from around the world Seaweed start-up wins Thai Union innovation award Oceanium, a UK start-up that has developed a new biorefining process for seaweed, has won the Thai Union Innovation Challenge at this year’s AsiaPacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit in Singapore. Thai Union had set the challenge to discover fresh ideas and solutions that will support its SeaChange 2030 Sustainability Strategy to reshape the seafood industry. Oceanium’s sophisticated biorefinery process extracts maximum value from sustainably farmed seaweed to produce plant-based food ingredients and highpurity bioactive supplements for health and wellness.

Pictured: Oceanium CEO, Karen Scofield Seal

Now for fish farming – the SpinTouch FX Water Analyser

Using proven photometric technology that has been game-changing in global water testing applications, the SpinTouch FX tests eight parameters, including ammonia, nitrate and nitrite with one water sample, simultaneously, within two minutes. The genius lies in the disk, which uses precisely measured reagents, meaning results are easy to obtain, accurate and repeatable. Portable, rugged and with results displayed on-screen, the SpinTouch FX is the new go-to analyser for on-site testing – helping fish farmers to achieve accurate results and thereby maintaining consistency of environment. www.lamotte-europe.com

Worms can help find value in fish farm waste

Photo: © Hans Hillewaert

A novel, chemical-free approach to treating aquaculture waste could see it transformed into a useful co-product. A project led by the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), with support from the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC), is combining an electrochemical process with ultrasound technology to extract excess water from waste matter before it is used to feed marine worms – polychaetes – which in turn could be a potential ingredient in aquafeed. Equipment designed and supplied by Power and Water will be used at Scottish Sea Farms’ Barcaldine Hatchery for the project.

Dr Georgina Robinson of SAMS said: “Aquaculture waste is not typically considered as valuable as co-products from other sectors, but there are a range of opportunities to be explored that could change that attitude.”

NovaSea chooses Maritech’s sales software

NovaSea, one of the largest producers of farmed salmon in northern Norway, is implementing Maritech’s Purchase and Sales, a cloud solution tailored to support processes throughout the global seafood value chain. Maritech’s Purchase and Sales application is used by seafood companies in Europe and North America, serving global corporations as well as small- to medium-sized players in aquaculture and fisheries. Maritech is owned by Broodstock Capital.

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www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

What’s NEW Monthly update on industry innovation and solutions from around the world

Tucker joins Aquabyte as COO and President

Steve Tucker has been appointed as COO and President of Norwegian aquaculture tech company Aquabyte. He has extensive international experience and in recent years has been CEO of the Bergen-based company itslearning.

Aquabyte develops a monitoring system using underwater cameras and advanced machine learning/AI to analyse thousands of images taken of farmed fish in pens. The system is currently used on farms all over the world. In 2020, Aquabyte was the first company to receive the Norwegian Food Safety Authority’s approval for automatic counting of lice on farmed salmon and trout.

Grant aims to support IoT take-up for aquaculture

Aquaculture is among the sectors set to benefit from an initiative set up to encourage investment by Scottish companies in the internet of things (IoT) technology. IoT Secure is led by IoT experts at CENSIS, Scotland’s innovation centre for sensing, imaging and IoT technologies.

The programme offers cyber security workshops and one-to-one consultations to SMEs and start-ups. Around 40 companies have benefitted from the free initiative since it was launched in spring 2020, with at least 10 invited to take part in the next phase. The scheme will run until March 2024 after securing a funding extension from the Scottish Government.

Gender sorting solution achieves breakthrough results Chilean fish farmer Salmones Camanchaca has achieved a verified gender classification accuracy exceeding 97% – and no increase in mortality rates – using the SORTpro system from Aquaticode. Manual ultrasound operators currently sort around 100 million fish annually in Chile. This approach has proven to promote faster growth in both male and female batches compared to mixed groups. By automating this procedure, Aquaticode not only enhances flexibility, efficiency and accuracy but also extends gender sorting capabilities to regions where high labour costs previously prohibited such practices. Aquaticode was founded in 2018 and backed by Nacre Capital.

Seacloud acquires Meox’s environmental monitoring technology

Bluefront Equity-owned Seacloud, a provider of software and sensor technologies to the fish farming industry, has entered into an agreement to acquire Meox’s environmental monitoring products and software. As part of the agreement, Seacloud acquires all intellectual property and commercial rights for Meox’s popular Guardian product range. The Guardian products are battery-powered buoys that measure various water parameters such as oxygen, salinity, water flow, temperature and turbidity. The buoys are placed in fish cages and transmit data wirelessly to a cloud-based system. Seacloud will be responsible for the maintenance and sale of the 570 or so buoys already installed at fish farming facilities.

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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INDUSTRY DIARY

Industry DIARY The latest aquaculture events, conferences and courses NOVEMBER 23 AFRAQ 2023

www.was.org/meeting/code/AFRAQ23

Lusaka, Zambia November 13-16, 2023

JUNE 24 SEAWORK www.seawork.com

Southampton, United Kingdom June 11-13, 2024

Europe’s largest on-water commercial marine and workboat exhibition.

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Ketchikan, Alaska September 11-12, 2024

Leading conference for the seaweed sector in the US.

LATIN AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN AQUACULTURE 2024 www.was.org

DECEMBER 23

Medellin, Colombia September 24-27, 2024

ALGAEUROPE 2023 www.algaeurope.org

Prague, Czech Republic December 12-15, 2023

Conference about science, technology and business in the Algae Biomass sector

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Pordenone, Italy February 14-15, 2024

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Tórshavn, Faroe Islands June 18-20, 2024 Venue:The Nordic House

Leading conference for the seaweed sector in Europe.

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Focused on climate, research and innovation www.was.org

San Antonio,Texas, USA February 18-21, 2024

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Surabaya, Indonesia NEW DATES July 2-5, 2024

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New Orleans, Louisiana USA March 6-10, 2025

Aquaculture – Driving the Blue Economy is the theme of the conference at the Grand City next year.

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Copenhagen, Denmark August 26-30, 2024

The theme of AQUA 2024 is BLUE FOOD, GREEN SOLUTIONS.

www.aquacultureuk.com Aviemore will once again be the venue for this biennial trade fair and conference. It is undoubtedly the most important aquaculture exhibition held in the British Isles. The show has a tremendous following and with increased investment for 2024 it promises to reach even further across the broader aquaculture markets in both the UK and Europe.

SEPTEMBER 25 AQUACULTURE EUROPE 2025 www.aquaeas.org

Valencia, Spain September 22-25 2025

Aviemore, United Kingdom May 14-15, 2024

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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OPINION – INSIDE TRACK

An unhealthy view of life

By Nick Joy

S

O here I sit, snuffling and feeling very sorry for myself.

This latest type of Covid is particularly nasty. Once you get through the headaches, the congested sinuses and sore throats to the heady plains of sneezing and coughing, most people have run out of energy.

From the perspective of a somewhat older person, I can state categorically that the sofa has become a good friend and a warm fire the best companion.

The focus on health over the last few years seems a stark contrast to the decades before. When talking to an old forester who lives next door about Covid, he said, ironically: “Who’d have guessed it would happen… an older and older population living in closer and closer proximity, eating unhealthily and going outside less and less!”

It does make one think about where we are headed, especially when Elon Musk has just said that AI will take all of our jobs soon.

I’m not going to speculate on stock farming by robot. Though in that sort of urban fantasy, I suppose food no longer needs to be produced as it can all come from a laboratory. Luckily, I think I will be pushing up the daisies by then.

I find the general attitude to health in our country amazing. We expect to be well all of the time and generally blame someone else if we feel unwell. We eat badly, exercise little, sleep strange hours, work in close confinement with other unhealthy people and then are utterly surprised when we get ill. Not only that but we think this is something that the government can solve.

So why or how does this have any relevance to fish farming?

Well, if we cannot see the causes of our own health issues, it is hardly surprising that some of the public think that farmed animals getting sick can be blamed on the farmer. To accept that animals grown in large shoals, as they exist in nature, are prone to sickness would be tantamount to accepting that they themselves are encouraging their own health issues.

The issue is precisely the same as for human beings. The higher the numbers of individuals and the closer the proximity, the more likely that health issues will arise. At least the fish take exercise and are in an open environment.

I have often raised the issue of health and farmed animals because there is such a huge double standard. Last month, I wrote about one particular activist; once, in one of my talks, I allowed him to step into an enormous trap.

The issue of treating farm animals with antibiotics has been around for a long time. A double standard arises when we look at how we treat our pets. We could never countenance allowing them to get sick without trying to cure them. So I asked the audience: “Why is it OK to treat your pet and not a farmed animal?”

DS simply could not resist! He leapt to his feet and shouted: “You don’t eat your pet!”

I replied with a big grin: “It’s a welfare question, Don!” He sat down rather sharply.

It is a difficult question, nonetheless, because there have to be ethical boundaries. Farming that is dependent on medicines will not last and should not. Cattle farming lasted thousands of years without requiring medicines until we intensified it in the last 70

66

”

Some of the public think that farmed animals getting sick can be blamed on the farmer

years. Many activists would argue that this was due to greed but actually it has been due to two forces: the advent of cheap food and the rise in population have driven intensification of food production. As neither of these appear to be abating, it is likely that it will continue.

As to the public attitude to health in livestock, I really doubt that those campaigners will gain any more traction than they have to date. The trendy chefs and the BBC will wring their hands and suggest we shouldn’t eat whatever product it is that is out of flavour or favour this month. The papers will be appalled.

However, if buying eggs from caged chickens hasn’t stopped, the production of foie gras hasn’t stopped or keeping pigs in large dark houses hasn’t stopped, I seriously doubt if the public are going to take serious notice of a bunch of salmon anglers and an idiot who paints himself with sea lice or dresses as a seal.

I am not suggesting complacency, just that we keep our worries about these people in perspective. Salmon is, was and shall be a wonderful, delicious, healthy thing to eat, grown by hard-working, decent people in a difficult and challenging environment.

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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