Aquaculture Welfare

Salmon Welfare and Genetic Selection

Genetic selection in farmed salmon has significant welfare implications through effects on disease resistance, stress responses, and growth-related pathologies.

Key Facts

Selective breeding for rapid growth has historically increased spinal deformity rates in some strains
Disease resistance traits including resistance to IHN and ISA are being incorporated into breeding programs
Stress response genetics affect how salmon cope with crowding and handling
Domestication selection over multiple generations changes behavioral welfare indicators
Welfare-inclusive breeding programs that select against pathological traits are developing in some companies

Welfare Considerations

Genetic selection in salmon farming is a powerful but double-edged welfare tool. Selection for growth without welfare outcomes has historically caused problems, while welfare-inclusive selection offers a route to healthier, more resilient fish.

What You Can Do

Support salmon producers using welfare-inclusive breeding programs
Advocate for welfare outcome monitoring as part of salmon breeding program assessment
Purchase salmon from producers with transparent genetics and health performance reporting