Aquaculture

Farmed Salmon Acoustic Stress Assessment

Underwater noise from aquaculture operations, boats, and industrial activity causes stress in farmed salmon that affects welfare and production.

Key Facts

Salmon are sensitive to low-frequency acoustic signals used for natural navigation
Engine noise from service boats causes acute startle and stress responses
Acoustic deterrent devices to prevent seal predation cause welfare concern in target fish
Chronic background noise in sea cages differs from natural offshore acoustic environments
Research into acoustic welfare impacts on farmed fish is an emerging field

Welfare Considerations

Acoustic environment is an overlooked welfare factor in salmon farming. Chronic or acute noise stress causes physiological responses measurable through cortisol. Minimising unnecessary noise events, particularly during feeding when fish are concentrated near the surface, represents a low-cost welfare improvement.

What You Can Do

Support aquaculture welfare research including acoustic stress assessment
Advocate for acoustic welfare considerations in aquaculture site licensing
Choose certified salmon from farms committed to comprehensive welfare monitoring