Definitions
Salmon
The salmon we produce, and do research on, in Norway is the Atlantic salmon.
The stage post-smolt is defined as the first period after the salmon has passed through smoltification, meaning transfer from a freshwater adapted fish to a salmon that has acquired seawater tolerance. The size range in which salmon is called postsmolt is not clearly defined; however, in CtrlAQUA we use the term post-smolt up to 1 kg.
Research
Through research on salmon in CtrlAQUA we work together towards a common goal, we develop technological and biological innovations to make closed-containment aquaculture systems (CCS) a reliable and economically viable technology.
The main research focus is the strategic parts of the Atlantic salmon production cycle, such as the post-smolt stage. The center therefore contributes significantly to solve the challenges limiting the envisioned growth in aquaculture and facilitate sustainable growth by 2050.
Closed-containment aquaculture systems on land
Land-based closed-containment systems (RAS) are increasingly using water recirculation technologies that treat and recycle as much as 99.9% of the water.
Such facilities have only minimal direct hydraulic connection with the environment, and RAS can capture over 98% of the fish waste solids. RAS allows for much greater control of the rearing environment than cages in sea, and makes avoidance of sea lice, and nutrient reclamation possible.
In Norway, landbased smolt production in RAS has expanded considerably, and there is considerable interest in post-smolt production in RAS.
Closed-containment system floating in sea
In-sea floating semi-closed containment system (S-CCS) technologies are also emerging, making it possible to control and reduce the interactions between farmed fish and the external environment.
Common to all these platforms is that deep water (-20 to -50m) is pumped into the systems, to secure stable water quality and to avoid pathogens and parasites located near the surface.
In-sea floating platforms can be divided into three types; closed containment systems with rigid walls, systems with flexible walls and race-ways.