The fish moves indoor: fish welfare and sustainable development of Swedish aquaculture initiatives

Farmed fish are promoted by FAO as a climate-friendly and healthy source of nutrients.

However, aquaculture expansion must occur in ways that safeguard fish health and welfare and reduce environmental impact.

To develop aquaculture sustainably, it is necessary to shift to systems that minimize water use and spread of pollution/disease. Sustainable aquaculture can also not depend on feeds that require the exploitation of wild fish stocks.

In this project, we will facilitate the development of sustainable farming in Swedish Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS).

This will be achieved by 1) assessing the welfare of fish in Swedish RAS by using surgically implanted bio-loggers to continuously monitor ‘real-time’ physiological and behavioral stress indicators in freely swimming fish, and 2) evaluate and develop new methods for stunning fish adapted for Swedish RAS to ensure humane slaughter.

Specifically, we will apply our recently developed non-invasive technique to determine consciousness/sensibility via brain activity (EEG) in live fish.

Results will be communicated to stakeholders via evidence-based educational material on farming and slaughter of fish made freely available online.

The project provides a solid scientific foundation on which to base legislation and best practice guidelines to ensure the welfare of fish in Swedish aquaculture and will also be of relevance at the EU level.