The freshwater phase of salmon aquaculture includes hatching, early rearing, and smoltification, with welfare challenges specific to each developmental stage.
Freshwater welfare in salmon aquaculture sets the foundation for health and welfare throughout the production cycle. Poor early rearing conditions including inappropriate temperature, crowding, or light cycles create physiological stress that persists through to sea transfer. Welfare investment in freshwater phases through appropriate water quality, stocking density, and stress-minimising handling protocols improves welfare and reduces disease burden in subsequent marine production.