Salmon lice data from Norwegian and Scottish farms is central to understanding disease pressure on wild salmonids. Open access to monitoring data enables independent welfare assessment.
Lice monitoring data quality directly affects welfare outcomes for both farmed and wild salmon. Under-reported lice counts delay treatment, increasing fish suffering and wild salmon exposure. Open data requirements enable independent verification and public accountability. The case for real-time, independently audited lice monitoring is supported by both farmed fish welfare and wild salmon conservation arguments. Transparency in lice data is a welfare and ecological imperative.