Aquaculture

Salmon Welfare and Anaesthesia Best Practice 2026

Fish anaesthesia is essential for many husbandry procedures and is an important welfare intervention when used correctly.

Key Facts

AQUI-S (isoeugenol) and MS-222 are the most widely approved fish anaesthetics
Incorrect dosing causes stress or organ damage - concentration must be monitored
Recovery from anaesthesia should be timed to avoid prolonged unconsciousness
Anaesthesia reduces stress and injury during vaccination, sorting, and sampling
New 2026 guidance recommends anaesthesia for all invasive procedures on salmon

Welfare Considerations

Fish anaesthesia is a critical welfare tool that reduces suffering during husbandry procedures. Proper training and dosing protocols are essential for safe and humane use.

What You Can Do

Support anaesthesia training requirements in aquaculture standards
Advocate for mandatory anaesthesia for invasive fish procedures
Choose aquaculture products certified under welfare standards requiring anaesthesia