# Salmon Farming Sustainability: Environmental Impacts and Mitigation


## Key Takeaways

- Nutrient and organic waste pollution from uneaten feed and feces alters benthic sediment chemistry, potentially leading to anoxic zones and reduced macrofaunal diversity; mitigation involves feed optimization, site rotation, and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA).
- Sea lice infestations, exacerbated by high fish density, can be managed through cleaner fish, chemical treatments, or barrier nets, but resistance to chemicals and the need for separate cleaner fish husbandry are significant limitations.
- Fish escapes, primarily due to net pen damage or equipment failure, pose risks of genetic interaction with wild populations and competition for resources; robust infrastructure like double netting and rigorous mooring inspections are critical preventative measures.
- Habitat and benthic impacts stem from organic enrichment and potential chemical residues, with site rotation and waste collection systems aiding recovery, though cumulative effects in high-density areas and varying recovery times remain challenges.
- Antibiotic use, while varying by region, contributes to antimicrobial resistance; disease prevention strategies, improved vaccines, and biosecurity are crucial for minimizing therapeutic treatments and their associated risks.
- Certification schemes like ASC and GlobalG.A.P. provide frameworks for environmental and welfare standards, but their effectiveness in achieving ecosystem-level sustainability is debated, and they may not address all localized environmental concerns.

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Salmon farming provides a significant portion of global seafood supply, but its environmental footprint requires careful management. This article examines the documented environmental concerns associated with salmon aquaculture including pollution, sea lice transfer, fish escapes, and habitat alteration, and presents evidence-based mitigation strategies such as integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), best management practices, and certification schemes. The content is intended for aquaculture farmers, regulators, and consumers seeking a practical understanding of sustainability challenges and solutions.

## At a Glance: Key Environmental Concerns and Mitigation Options

| Environmental Concern | Primary Cause | Common Mitigation Approach | Key Limitation |
|----------------------|---------------|---------------------------|----------------|
| Nutrient and waste pollution | Uneaten feed, fish feces, metabolic waste | Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), feed optimization, fallowing | IMTA requires suitable co-culture species and site conditions, fallowing reduces but does not eliminate benthic impacts |
| Sea lice infestations | High fish density in net pens, wild fish proximity | Cleaner fish, chemical treatments, sea lice barrier nets, coordinated fallowing | Chemical resistance develops, cleaner fish require separate husbandry, barrier nets add cost and maintenance |
| Fish escapes | Net pen damage from storms, predators, or equipment failure | Double netting, mooring inspections, escape prevention protocols | No system is escape-proof, severe weather events can overwhelm safeguards |
| Habitat and benthic impact | Organic enrichment under pens, chemical residues | Site rotation, waste collection systems, benthic monitoring | Recovery time varies by current and depth, cumulative effects in high-density farming areas |

## Environmental Concerns in Salmon Farming

### Nutrient and Organic Waste Pollution

Salmon farming in open net pens releases dissolved nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter directly into the surrounding water column. Uneaten feed and fish feces accumulate on the seafloor beneath pens, altering sediment chemistry and benthic community structure. The magnitude of this impact depends on stocking density, [feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency), water current speed, and depth at the farm site. Farmers can monitor benthic health through sediment sampling and video surveys of the seabed. When organic enrichment exceeds the assimilative capacity of the local environment, anoxic zones develop and macrofaunal diversity declines. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides species-specific culture guidelines that include stocking density and waste management recommendations for salmonids (FAO, www.fao.org/fishery/en/culturedspecies).

### Sea Lice and Disease Transfer

Sea lice are parasitic copepods that feed on salmon skin and mucus, causing stress, reduced growth, and increased susceptibility to secondary infections. High fish densities in net pens create favorable conditions for sea louse reproduction and transmission. Infested farmed salmon can release large numbers of larval lice that infect wild salmonids migrating past farm sites. Coordinated sea lice management between farms in a region is essential to reduce overall louse pressure. Treatment options include chemical bath treatments, in-feed medications, and biological control using cleaner fish such as lumpfish and wrasse. The development of resistance to chemical treatments is a documented concern in major salmon-producing regions. The USDA Agricultural Research Service conducts research on animal production and protection strategies relevant to aquaculture disease management (USDA ARS, www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection/aquaculture).

### Fish Escapes and Genetic Interactions

Escape events release farmed Atlantic salmon into environments where they may interact with wild populations. Farmed salmon that escape can compete with wild fish for food and spawning habitat, and interbreeding between farmed and wild salmon can reduce the genetic fitness of wild populations. Escape events result from net pen failures during storms, predator attacks, or operational errors. Farmers can reduce escape risk through regular net inspections, double netting systems, and mooring maintenance. Regulatory frameworks in some jurisdictions require reporting of escape events and implementation of prevention plans. The FAO Animal Production and Health division addresses genetic resource management in aquaculture (FAO, www.fao.org/animal-production/en).

### Habitat and Benthic Ecosystem Impacts

The physical presence of net pens and mooring systems alters local water flow and sediment deposition patterns. Organic waste accumulation under pens can smother benthic organisms and alter nutrient cycling. Chemical residues from antifouling coatings on nets and from therapeutic treatments may persist in sediments. The severity of habitat impact depends on farm size, hydrographic conditions, and the sensitivity of the receiving environment. Farmers can conduct benthic monitoring programs that measure sediment oxygen levels, sulfide concentrations, and macrofaunal community composition. Site rotation and fallowing periods allow the seabed to recover between production cycles. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include environmental enrichment and habitat considerations for farmed fish (USDA NAL, www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare).

### Antibiotic Use and Antimicrobial Resistance

Antibiotic use in salmon aquaculture varies significantly between producing countries. Some regions have reduced antibiotic use through improved vaccines, biosecurity, and husbandry practices, while others continue to rely on therapeutic treatments. The overuse of antibiotics in aquaculture contributes to the development of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria, which poses risks to fish health, human health through the food chain, and the environment. A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology examined antibiotic use in Chilean salmon aquaculture and its implications for antimicrobial resistance, sustainability, and One Health (PubMed, 2026, Antibiotic use in Chilean salmon aquaculture: antimicrobial resistance, sustainability, and One Health implications, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42182033). Farmers should maintain records of antibiotic use, follow veterinary prescriptions, and implement disease prevention strategies to minimize the need for treatments.

## Mitigation Strategies

### Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)

Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture combines the culture of fed species such as salmon with extractive species that utilize waste nutrients. Seaweeds extract dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus, while filter-feeding shellfish such as mussels and oysters remove particulate organic matter. Deposit-feeding invertebrates such as sea cucumbers can process organic waste on the seabed. IMTA reduces the net nutrient discharge from salmon farms and provides additional marketable products. Successful IMTA implementation requires selecting co-culture species that are adapted to local environmental conditions and that do not compete with salmon for resources. Farmers must also comply with regulatory requirements for multispecies aquaculture operations. The FAO provides guidance on integrated aquaculture systems through its fisheries and aquaculture resources (FAO, www.fao.org/fishery/en/culturedspecies).

### Best Management Practices for Feed and Nutrition

Feed accounts for the majority of the environmental footprint of salmon farming. Improving [feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency) reduces waste output per unit of fish produced. Precision feeding systems use sensors and algorithms to deliver feed based on fish appetite, minimizing overfeeding and feed waste. Alternative protein sources such as insect meal, single-cell proteins, and algae can replace fishmeal and reduce pressure on wild fish stocks. Farmers should work with feed suppliers to select formulations that meet nutritional requirements while minimizing environmental impact. The USDA Agricultural Research Service conducts research on sustainable feed ingredients and nutrition for aquaculture species (USDA ARS, www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection).

### Sea Lice Management Strategies

Effective sea lice management requires an integrated pest management approach that combines multiple control methods. Coordinated fallowing of entire farming regions breaks the sea lice life cycle by removing host fish for a period. Cleaner fish such as lumpfish and wrasse are deployed in net pens to graze sea lice from salmon. Barrier nets and snorkel cages reduce contact between salmon and sea lice larvae in the water column. Chemical treatments should be used strategically to delay the development of resistance. Farmers must monitor sea lice levels regularly and maintain treatment records. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides information on animal health and welfare that includes parasite management resources (USDA NAL, www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare).

### Escape Prevention and Containment

Escape prevention requires robust infrastructure and operational protocols. Farmers should inspect nets regularly for tears and wear, especially after storms. Double netting systems provide redundancy in case of outer net failure. Mooring systems must be designed to withstand local weather and current conditions. Staff training on escape prevention and response procedures is essential. When escapes occur, farmers must report the event to regulatory authorities and implement corrective actions. The FAO Animal Production and Health division addresses biosecurity and containment in aquaculture (FAO, www.afao.org/animal-production/en).

### Certification Schemes and Eco-Labels

Third-party certification schemes such as the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and GlobalG.A.P. set standards for environmental performance, social responsibility, and animal welfare. Certified farms must meet requirements for waste management, sea lice control, escape prevention, and antibiotic use. Certification provides market access and consumer confidence, but it also imposes costs for auditing and compliance. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Management explored the limitations of farm-applied aquaculture eco-certification schemes in achieving ecosystem-level sustainability (PubMed, 2023, From farm sustainability to ecosystem sustainability: Exploring the limitations of farm-applied aquaculture eco-certification schemes, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37054590). Farmers should evaluate which certification schemes are relevant to their markets and production systems.

## Practical Implementation Steps for Farmers

### Step 1: Conduct a Site-Specific Environmental Assessment

Before establishing or expanding a salmon farm, assess the environmental conditions of the proposed site. Measure water depth, current speed, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient levels. Evaluate the sensitivity of the benthic habitat and the presence of wild salmon populations. Consult with regulatory agencies to determine permit requirements and environmental monitoring obligations. The FAO provides species-specific culture information that includes site selection criteria for salmonids (FAO, www.fao.org/fishery/en/culturedspecies).

### Step 2: Develop a Waste Management Plan

Calculate the expected waste output based on stocking density, feed type, and feed conversion ratio. Design a waste management strategy that may include feed optimization, waste collection systems, and site rotation. Establish benthic monitoring protocols to track sediment quality and macrofaunal health. Set thresholds for acceptable impact and develop corrective action plans if thresholds are exceeded. The USDA Agricultural Research Service conducts research on waste management technologies for aquaculture (USDA ARS, www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection/aquaculture).

### Step 3: Implement a Sea Lice Monitoring and Control Program

Establish a regular sea lice monitoring schedule that includes counting lice on a sample of fish at each pen. Set treatment thresholds based on regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Develop a treatment plan that includes biological control, mechanical removal, and chemical treatments as needed. Coordinate with neighboring farms to synchronize fallowing and treatment timing. Maintain detailed records of lice counts, treatments, and outcomes. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include parasite management (USDA NAL, www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare).

### Step 4: Establish Escape Prevention Protocols

Inspect nets and mooring systems before each production cycle and after major weather events. Install double netting or predator nets where risk is high. Train staff on escape prevention procedures and emergency response. Report any escape events to regulatory authorities and conduct a root cause analysis. Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides guidance on biosecurity and containment (FAO, www.fao.org/animal-production/en).

### Step 5: Monitor and Reduce Antibiotic Use

Work with a veterinarian to develop a disease prevention plan that includes vaccination, biosecurity, and stress reduction. Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a veterinarian and when bacterial infection is confirmed. Maintain records of all antibiotic treatments, including dose, duration, and withdrawal periods. Participate in antimicrobial resistance surveillance programs if available. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides resources on veterinary drug use and antimicrobial resistance in food animals (FDA, www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary).

## Records and Measurements

Farmers should maintain the following records to track environmental performance and compliance:

- Feed input records: type, amount, date, and feed conversion ratio per production cycle
- Water quality data: temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity, and nutrient levels at regular intervals
- Benthic monitoring results: sediment oxygen, sulfide, and macrofaunal community composition at designated stations
- Sea lice counts: number of lice per fish, by life stage, at each pen on each sampling date
- Treatment records: type of treatment, dose, duration, withdrawal period, and effectiveness
- Escape events: date, number of fish escaped, cause, and corrective actions taken
- Antibiotic use: drug name, dose, duration, withdrawal period, and veterinary prescription
- Certification audit results: findings, non-conformances, and corrective actions

These records support continuous improvement and demonstrate compliance with regulatory and certification requirements.

## Common Failure Patterns

### Inadequate Benthic Monitoring

Some farms conduct benthic monitoring only at the end of the production cycle, missing early signs of organic enrichment. Regular monitoring at multiple time points allows farmers to detect trends and adjust management before impacts become severe. Farmers should establish baseline conditions before stocking and monitor at least annually during production.

### Poor Coordination of Sea Lice Management

When farms in a region do not coordinate fallowing and treatment schedules, sea lice populations can persist and spread between sites. Regional coordination requires communication and agreement among multiple operators, which can be challenging. Farmers should participate in area-based management groups and share lice data where possible.

### Overreliance on Chemical Treatments

Repeated use of the same chemical treatment class selects for resistant sea lice populations. Farmers should rotate between treatment types and integrate non-chemical control methods. Resistance monitoring should be part of the sea lice management program.

### Insufficient Staff Training

Escape prevention and environmental monitoring require trained staff who understand the importance of protocols. High staff turnover can lead to inconsistent practices. Farmers should provide regular training and maintain written procedures.

## Limitations of Current Mitigation Approaches

### IMTA Limitations

Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture requires suitable co-culture species that are adapted to local conditions and marketable. Not all farm sites have the water quality or space to support IMTA. Regulatory frameworks may not accommodate multispecies operations. The economic viability of IMTA depends on the value of co-culture products and the cost of additional infrastructure.

### Certification Scheme Limitations

Certification schemes set minimum standards but may not address all local environmental concerns. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Management highlighted the limitations of farm-applied aquaculture eco-certification schemes in achieving ecosystem-level sustainability (PubMed, 2023, From farm sustainability to ecosystem sustainability: Exploring the limitations of farm-applied aquaculture eco-certification schemes, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37054590). Certification audits are periodic and may not capture day-to-day variability in farm performance.

### Genetic Improvement Limitations

Selective breeding programs have improved growth rate, disease resistance, and feed efficiency in farmed salmon, but genetic improvement is a long-term process. A study published in [BMC Genomics](/blog/guides/bmc-genomics) discussed the current status, challenges, and priorities for future research in aquaculture genomics, genetics, and breeding in the United States (PubMed, 2017, Aquaculture genomics, genetics and breeding in the United States: current status, challenges, and priorities for future research, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28219347). Farmers should source stock from reputable breeding programs and maintain genetic diversity.

## Welfare and Safety Context

### Fish Welfare Considerations

Environmental stressors such as poor water quality, high stocking density, and sea lice infestations compromise fish welfare. Stressed fish are more susceptible to disease and have reduced growth and survival. Farmers should monitor fish behavior, feed intake, and physical condition as indicators of welfare. A study published in Aquaculture Science and Management described a non-invasive, AI-driven behavioural monitoring approach for assessing gill health in Atlantic salmon in commercial farms (PubMed, 2025, Precision farming in aquaculture: assessing gill health in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) using a non-invasive, AI-driven behavioural monitoring approach in commercial farms, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40851784). Welfare monitoring should be integrated into daily farm operations.

### Worker Safety

Salmon farming involves working on water, handling heavy equipment, and using chemicals. Farmers should provide personal protective equipment, training on safe handling of chemicals, and emergency response procedures. Fall prevention, boat safety, and dive safety protocols are essential. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides resources on animal production and protection that include worker safety considerations (USDA ARS, www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection).

### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention)

Antibiotic use in salmon farming must comply with withdrawal periods to ensure that residues do not enter the food supply. Farmers should maintain accurate treatment records and follow veterinary prescriptions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates veterinary drug use in food animals and provides guidance on residue avoidance (FDA, www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary).

## Professional Escalation Criteria

Farmers should seek professional advice from a veterinarian, aquatic animal health specialist, or environmental consultant when:

- Sea lice levels exceed treatment thresholds and do not respond to treatment
- Benthic monitoring shows severe organic enrichment or anoxic conditions
- Fish mortality exceeds normal levels for the production stage
- Antibiotic treatments are required repeatedly for the same disease
- Escape events occur or infrastructure damage is detected
- Regulatory compliance issues are identified during inspections or audits
- Certification non-conformances are identified that require corrective action

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What are the main environmental impacts of salmon farming?

The main environmental impacts include nutrient and organic waste pollution from feed and feces, sea lice infestations that can transfer to wild salmon, fish escapes that can interbreed with wild populations, and habitat alteration from net pen infrastructure and waste accumulation. The magnitude of these impacts depends on farm management practices, site conditions, and regulatory oversight. The FAO provides species-specific culture information that includes environmental management guidance (FAO, www.fao.org/fishery/en/culturedspecies).

### How can salmon farmers reduce nutrient pollution?

Farmers can reduce nutrient pollution by improving feed conversion ratio through precision feeding, using low-polluting feed formulations, and implementing integrated multi-trophic aquaculture where seaweeds and shellfish extract waste nutrients. Site rotation and fallowing allow the seabed to recover between production cycles. Regular benthic monitoring helps farmers track the effectiveness of waste management practices.

### What is integrated multi-trophic aquaculture and how does it work?

Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture combines the culture of fed species such as salmon with extractive species that utilize waste nutrients. Seaweeds absorb dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus, while filter-feeding shellfish remove particulate organic matter. Deposit-feeding invertebrates process organic waste on the seabed. IMTA reduces net nutrient discharge and provides additional marketable products, but requires suitable co-culture species and site conditions.

### How do farmers manage sea lice without chemicals?

Farmers can manage sea lice using biological control with cleaner fish such as lumpfish and wrasse, mechanical removal through freshwater or thermal treatments, barrier nets that reduce contact with lice larvae, and coordinated fallowing that breaks the lice life cycle. An integrated pest management approach that combines multiple methods reduces reliance on chemical treatments and delays the development of resistance.

### What happens when farmed salmon escape?

Escaped farmed salmon can compete with wild salmon for food and spawning habitat, and interbreeding can reduce the genetic fitness of wild populations. Farmers must report escape events to regulatory authorities and implement corrective actions. Escape prevention measures include regular net inspections, double netting, and mooring maintenance. No system is completely escape-proof, but robust protocols reduce risk.

### Are certified salmon farms more sustainable?

Certification schemes such as the Aquaculture Stewardship Council set standards for environmental performance, social responsibility, and animal welfare. Certified farms must meet requirements for waste management, sea lice control, escape prevention, and antibiotic use. However, a study published in the Journal of Environmental Management noted limitations of farm-applied certification in achieving ecosystem-level sustainability (PubMed, 2023, From farm sustainability to ecosystem sustainability: Exploring the limitations of farm-applied aquaculture eco-certification schemes, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37054590). Certification is one tool but does not guarantee full sustainability.

### How does antibiotic use in salmon farming affect the environment?

Antibiotic use in salmon farming can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance in bacteria, which poses risks to fish health, human health through the food chain, and the environment. A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology examined antibiotic use in Chilean salmon aquaculture and its implications for antimicrobial resistance, sustainability, and One Health (PubMed, 2026, Antibiotic use in Chilean salmon aquaculture: antimicrobial resistance, sustainability, and One Health implications, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42182033). Farmers should use antibiotics only when prescribed by a veterinarian and implement disease prevention strategies to minimize the need for treatments.

### What records should salmon farmers keep for environmental compliance?

Farmers should maintain records of feed input and feed conversion ratio, water quality data, benthic monitoring results, sea lice counts and treatments, escape events and corrective actions, antibiotic use and veterinary prescriptions, and certification audit results. These records support continuous improvement and demonstrate compliance with regulatory and certification requirements.

## Related Farming Guides

- [Shrimp Farming Biosecurity Water Management And Crop Observation](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/shrimp-farming-biosecurity-water-management-and-crop-observation)
- [Freshwater Prawn Farming Stocking Shelter Feeding And Harvest Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/freshwater-prawn-farming-stocking-shelter-feeding-and-harvest-management)
- [Aquaculture Solids Management Settling Filtration Sludge And Disposal](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/aquaculture-solids-management-settling-filtration-sludge-and-disposal)
- [Aquaculture Algal Bloom Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/aquaculture-algal-bloom-management)
- [Aquaculture Ammonia And Nitrite Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/aquaculture-ammonia-and-nitrite-management)

## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides

* [Pond Sediment Management and Dredging Options](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/pond-sediment-management-dredging-options)
* [Indoor Aquaculture Facilities: Lighting and Insulation](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/indoor-aquaculture-facilities-lighting-insulation)
* [Greenhouse Aquaculture: Extending Growing Seasons](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/greenhouse-aquaculture-extending-growing-seasons)


## References and Further Reading

- [www.fao.org](https://www.fao.org/fishery/en/culturedspecies)
- [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection/aquaculture)
- [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
- [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library.
- [Animal Production and Protection](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). USDA Agricultural Research Service.
- [Animal and Veterinary Resources](https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- [Antibiotic use in Chilean salmon aquaculture: antimicrobial resistance, sustainability, and One Health implications.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42182033). Frontiers in microbiology, 2026.
- [Precision farming in aquaculture: assessing gill health in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) using a non-invasive, AI-driven behavioural monitoring approach in commercial farms.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40851784). Aquaculture science and management, 2025.
- [Passive Immunization of Farmed Fish.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28533282). Journal of immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950), 2017.
- [Can aquaculture overcome its sustainability challenges?](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33299208). Nature, 2020.
- [From farm sustainability to ecosystem sustainability: Exploring the limitations of farm-applied aquaculture eco-certification schemes.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37054590). Journal of environmental management, 2023.
- [Aquaculture genomics, genetics and breeding in the United States: current status, challenges, and priorities for future research.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28219347). [BMC genomics](/blog/guides/bmc-genomics), 2017.
- [Sustainable Aquaculture: Are We Getting There? Ethical Perspectives on Salmon Farming](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10806-010-9269-z). Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Ethics, 2011.
- [British Columbia's fish health regulatory framework's contribution to sustainability goals related to salmon aquaculture](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10393-008-0199-4). Ecohealth, 2008.
- [Ecosystem services in salmon aquaculture sustainability schemes](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoser.2021.101379). Ecosystem Services, 2021.
- [‘Landing’ salmon aquaculture: Ecologies, infrastructures and the promise of sustainability](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geoforum.2021.04.025). Geoforum, 2021.
- [What's next for Norwegian salmon farming? Stakeholder perceptions on what influences industry development](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aquaculture.2025.742130). Aquaculture, 2025.

> This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.


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