Aquaculture

Salmon AGD Amoebic Gill Disease Welfare

Amoebic gill disease caused by Neoparamoeba perurans is a major welfare challenge in Atlantic salmon aquaculture.

Key Facts

AGD causes gill inflammation, respiratory distress and mortality
Warmer sea temperatures increase AGD prevalence and severity
Freshwater treatment is effective but handling and crowding cause stress
Hydrogen peroxide bathing is used but has its own welfare risks
Genetic selection for AGD resistance is an emerging tool

Welfare Considerations

AGD causes respiratory distress comparable to breathing difficulties in mammals. Affected fish have impaired gill function causing chronic oxygen stress. Treatment is stressful but necessary. Reducing sea temperature exposure through site management and breeding for resistance are longer-term welfare solutions.

What You Can Do

Support aquaculture welfare standards addressing AGD thresholds
Advocate for better monitoring and early treatment protocols
Choose certified farmed salmon from high-welfare producers