News / Sea lice no threat, says study
THE SCOTTISH salmon farming industry has welcomed new research that claims the threat that sea lice pose to wild salmon stocks has been overstated.
Researchers from the Marine Institute and NUIG Galway said that only a small number of wild salmon, possibly as little as one per cent, will die as a result of lice infestation.
“The scare stories in relation to sea lice being a threat to wild salmon put out by the opponents of salmon farming have no basis in scientific fact,” the report says.
The study was welcomed by the Scottish Salmon producers’ Organisation.
Its chairman Phil Thomas said: “This research, conducted over a nine-year period, concludes that the average mortality in wild salmon due to sea lice is tiny, less than one per cent, against the overall mortality of wild salmon at sea, which is in the region of 90 per cent.
“It is important now for salmon conservation to focus research on the true causes of mortality and the practical ways that they may be addressed or avoided.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
