The smoltification process that prepares Atlantic salmon for seawater transition involves physiological changes that require careful management to avoid welfare problems.
Smoltification represents a critical welfare window in Atlantic salmon production. Salmon transferred to seawater before smoltification is complete experience osmoregulatory failure causing physiological suffering and high mortality. The artificial manipulation of smoltification timing through light treatment creates welfare risks if not precisely managed. Monitoring smolt readiness indicators before seawater transfer is both a welfare and production requirement, with welfare and economic incentives aligned.