Welfare during salmon smoltification and the transition from freshwater hatcheries to marine sea cages.
Salmon smolt welfare at the hatchery-to-sea transition is a critical window that affects the entire productive life of farmed fish. Transfer at the correct smoltification stage, at appropriate density, with minimal handling and optimal water quality sets fish up for better welfare and growth in sea cages. Stress during this transition elevates cortisol and suppresses immune function, increasing disease susceptibility for months afterward. The economic incentive to optimize smolt transfer timing aligns with welfare motivation, making this an area where producer education can deliver dual benefits.