New case study: improving lumpfish vaccination for sustainable salmon farming
Improving vaccination technology and methodology in cleaner fish
The economic effects of sea lice are significant, costing the global salmon sector millions per year in mitigation efforts. Using ‘cleaner fish’ such as lumpfish and ballan wrasse for biological control of sea lice is an important part of integrated pest management strategies.
Lumpfish do not tolerate anaesthesia well and are vaccinated while awake. Their unique anatomy means they stick to flat surfaces during vaccination, risking injury and stress. These factors can compromise fish welfare and reduce vaccine effectiveness.
This project assessed existing lumpfish vaccination practices and developed improvements focused on welfare, safety, and efficacy. Valued at £314k, the partners were Aqualife Services, Scottish Sea Farms and the University of Stirling.
Researchers designed and tested the Aqualife Lumpfish Vaccination System (ALVaS), a specialised table that accommodates lumpfish biology. Trials showed that lumpfish vaccinated using ALVaS had significantly lower mortality after bacterial challenge compared to conventional methods, likely because reduced stress improved immune response. All fish resumed normal feeding within two days, confirming good recovery.
The study also identified behavioural indicators, e.g., feeding response, colour, activity, and lesions, to monitor welfare after vaccination. Additionally, researchers characterised bacteria linked to lumpfish disease and provided guidance on antibiotic resistance, helping hatcheries refine treatment practices. Key project outcomes:
- A welfare-focused vaccination system (ALVaS) now available to producers in the UK, Ireland, and Norway.
- Standard protocols for lumpfish vaccination and welfare assessment.
- Insights into bacterial pathogens and antibiotic sensitivity.
Aqualife Services opted not to protect the IP so that learnings from ALVaS could rapidly disseminated to improve vaccination practices and welfare of lumpfish.
By improving lumpfish health and welfare, these innovations supported effective sea lice control and reduced cleaner fish mortality.
The full title of this project is ‘Improving cleaner fish vaccination methodology and technology’.
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