The indirect effects of climate change on farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in Northern Norway

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) ranks in the top ten of most produced and valuable marine fish species globally in the aquaculture industry. However, cage farming operations of Atlantic salmon is threatened by elevated sea surface temperatures globally, likely caused by climate change. In Northern Norway, such an increase in sea surface temperatures can lead to an enhanced growth of farmed Atlantic salmon due to the already cold conditions in the region. An increase in sea surface temperatures can also lead to enhanced transmission of parasites, cause harmful algal blooms, and/or increased incidences of harmful jellyfish. The question then is, will the increased threat of biotic stressors outweigh the positive effect of increased sea surface temperatures on the viability of farmed Atlantic salmon?

From the literature, the most important stressor in the Harstad and Narvik region is suggested to be salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis). This project will then use simulations to model the development of salmon lice under different climate scenarios in the Harstad and Narvik region in Northern Norway to investigate the effects on the viability of farmed Atlantic salmon. The simulations will be used to develop a climate change adaptation strategy for the local Atlantic salmon industry in the Harstad and Narvik region, so that the aquaculture industry can take informed decisions towards better adaptation practices.

The project is transdisciplinary, with collaboration and secondment opportunities with the industry.  The supervisory team is interdisciplinary, ensuring a comprehensive approach. The candidate is also a part of the Climate Change Adaptation Research Group and BRIDGE, two research groups at UiT The Arctic University of Norway.