Aquaculture

Salmon RAS Land-Based Welfare Challenges

Recirculating aquaculture systems on land offer biosecurity advantages but create specific welfare challenges requiring careful management.

Key Facts

RAS maintain water quality through biological filtration and UV treatment
Water parameter control allows year-round production independent of season
Dissolved oxygen, CO2, nitrogen and temperature management are critical welfare factors
Power failure risk requires backup systems for all life support equipment
Stocking density in RAS can be higher than sea cages with appropriate management

Welfare Considerations

RAS systems remove exposure to sea lice and wild disease, improving welfare on those dimensions. However, system failures are catastrophic, and maintaining stable water chemistry requires constant vigilance. The welfare profile of RAS salmon is different from sea-cage salmon, requiring adapted monitoring and management protocols.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards specifically addressing RAS management
Advocate for backup power requirements in RAS facilities
Choose RAS salmon from certified producers with robust monitoring