New case study: advancing lumpfish welfare in Scottish aquaculture

Laying the foundation for standardised welfare monitoring in lumpfish aquaculture

A new SAIC supported project has set new standards for animal welfare in Scottish aquaculture by developing and validating operational welfare indicators (OWIs) specifically for lumpfish. These cleaner fish play a vital role in controlling sea lice in salmon farms, but key welfare challenges remain to be solved.

The project partners were the Institute of Aquaculture (University of Stirling), Fish Vet Group, FAI Aquaculture (now FAI Farms), Ardtoe Marine Research Facility (then part of FAI Aquaculture), Bakkafrost Scotland (formerly Scottish Salmon Company), Scottish Sea Farms and Cooke Aquaculture. The project was supported by SAIC and the total value of the project was almost £450k.

The two-year study examined lumpfish welfare from hatchery to sea pens, identifying health and behavioural indicators such as body condition and fin damage. Insights from the project have led to practical tools, protocols, and training materials now being shared across the sector. For example, hatchery enrichment strategies were refined to improve early survival, and best practice recommendations for grading and vaccination were introduced. By creating lumpfish-specific OWIs, the project enables farmers to monitor welfare consistently and make informed decisions that enhance fish health and farm productivity.

Collaboration was at the heart of the project, with workshops and shared sampling protocols fostering knowledge exchange among salmon producers. Engagement with organisations like the RSPCA has also opened discussions on integrating these indicators into certification schemes.

The project marks a significant step forward for sustainable aquaculture, ensuring lumpfish welfare is prioritised alongside their role in sea lice control. The benefits are clear: healthier fish, improved survival rates, and stronger foundations for ethical and efficient salmon farming.

Read the full case study