Aquatic Animals

Farmed Salmon Crowding Stress

Crowding in farmed salmon net pens causes chronic stress with measurable physiological effects and increased disease susceptibility.

Key Facts

Norwegian regulations allow up to 25 kg of fish per cubic meter in net pens
Studies show cortisol levels increase significantly at densities above 15 kg per cubic meter
Crowding stress suppresses immune function increasing disease susceptibility
Atlantic salmon are naturally migratory fish travelling thousands of kilometers in the wild

Welfare Considerations

Farmed salmon at high densities experience chronic stress measurable through cortisol levels, immune function, and behavioral indicators. This stress increases disease susceptibility creating a welfare and economic problem. Lower stocking densities improve both welfare and disease resistance, demonstrating that better welfare and better business outcomes can align.

What You Can Do

Choose salmon from producers committed to lower stocking densities
Support ASC certification for salmon with welfare standards
Advocate for evidence-based stocking density regulations in salmon farming
Reduce farmed salmon consumption or choose wild-caught alternatives