New case study: new tools to spot illness early in Atlantic salmon

Project case study now available

Keeping farmed salmon healthy is not only vital for animal welfare, but also for economic viability and maintaining public trust. A new research project supported by SAIC has tackled the challenge of detecting disease in Atlantic salmon before symptoms become serious. 

The project partners were SAIC with the University of the West of Scotland, University of Aberdeen, Bakkafrost Scotland, Environment Canada, University of Waterloo, and Fleet Bioprocessing. The total value of the project was £448,430. The project was funded by the Seafood Innovation Fund (SIF) and SAIC. 

This project explored new ways to identify early signs of infection using biomarkers - natural indicators in the blood of fish. Innovative tests were developed to spot immune responses linked to common bacterial and viral threats. One breakthrough has been in the validation of troponins as reliable markers of salmon health. Work is also underway to confirm haptoglobin as another useful indicator. 

These tools could help farmers act faster, reduce antibiotic use, and improve fish welfare.

Through this project, the team has established a strong foundation for future growth, commercialisation, and collaborative innovation. The tools and methodologies developed offer practical benefits for Scottish aquaculture that lays the groundwork for smarter, more sustainable impact worldwide.

Read the case study