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Demand for UK-produced seafood, particularly Atlantic salmon, has increased significantly in both global and domestic markets, with aquaculture contributing over £ 1.2 billion in value to the UK economy in 2024. Iain McCaffer, expert for aquaculture supply across Scotland and Business Development Manager at Air Products, explores why having a continuous supply of oxygen leading to optimal levels of dissolved oxygen in the water is key to maximizing productivity in fish farms, while navigating seasonal changes to the water, and the number, type and welfare of fish.
The addition of oxygen into fresh or sea water in hatcheries and fish farms supports fish welfare as it supports healthy growth. Sufficient oxygenation levels reduce stress, improve growth rates, strengthen immune systems, and can even lower mortality rates.
Oxygen is not only vital for fish wellness and growth, it also increases productivity and business success in fish farming. Maintaining an optimal level of oxygenation can not only create the conditions for aquaculture stock to thrive, but also boost profitability, supporting the ability to meet growing demand.
Feed efficiency is a case in point. For producers, feed is often the largest production expense, sometimes accounting for 50-to- 70 percent of total costs( according to the Food and Agriculture Organization). Creating the perfect production environment is the key to success and this is no different in fish farming, making it a key factor to consider in ensuring efficient farming practices and animal welfare. Low levels of dissolved oxygen can impair feed conversion efficiency, making farming less sustainable. However, boosting feed conversion through more accurate oxygen management can translate into better margins and more predictable performance – all while managing any negative impact on fish welfare and growth.
Optimal oxygen levels help to ensure that fish can metabolize feed well, leading to faster growth rates and reduced feed waste- two key factors in profitability.
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