Family testing of Atlantic salmon to look at genetic resistance to salmon lice

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The purpose of the experiment is to investigate whether some salmon families are more resistant to salmon lice than other families. This is done by examining whether there are differences between 107 different salmon families when challenged with salmon lice.

The fish will be infected with copepodites of salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), which are considered moderately stressful. The number of fish used in these experiments has been reduced from previous years.

Results from the experiment will enable the use of breeding as a tool against salmon lice in the Norwegian aquaculture industry. A genetically robust fish can be a great advantage in the fight against sea lice. If certain salmon strains are more resistant towards this parasite than others, this could result in a significant improvement in fish health in Norwegian fish farming.

This application is for 1800 Atlantic salmon.

Fish with major serious injuries will be euthanized (overdose). The same applies if the fish shows
signs of dissatisfaction in the form of apathy, darkening and loss of equilibrium.