Aquaculture

Crowding Stress in Farmed Salmon

High stocking densities in salmon farms cause chronic stress, impaired immune function, and poor welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Farmed Atlantic salmon can be stocked at up to 25 kg per cubic metre
High density reduces swimming space and increases fin damage
Crowding triggers stress responses that suppress immunity and growth
Sea lice infestations spread more rapidly in dense populations
Lower stocking densities improve fish welfare but reduce profitability

Welfare Considerations

Salmon are active migratory fish that experience significant welfare impairment under crowded conditions. Chronic stress from high stocking densities suppresses their immune systems, increases aggression, and makes them more vulnerable to disease and parasites.

What You Can Do

Choose salmon certified under schemes with lower stocking density requirements
Reduce farmed salmon consumption
Support research into salmon welfare indicators
Advocate for mandatory stocking density limits in aquaculture regulations