Krill Meal Enhances Salmon Survival and Growth During Seawater Transfer

Groundbreaking Study Reveals Benefits of KRILL Aqua in Salmon Farming

A recent study has demonstrated that incorporating feeds containing QRILL Aqua can significantly improve the performance of Atlantic salmon during the critical transition from freshwater to seawater. This pioneering research, conducted by Skretting in collaboration with Aker QRILL Company, marks the first commercial-scale field trial examining the effects of QRILL Aqua during the seawater transfer phase.

The Challenges of Seawater Transfer

The seawater transfer period represents a challenging stage for salmon farmers, often characterized by appetite suppression, osmoregulatory stress, heightened disease risks, and increased mortality rates. Statistics indicate that a substantial portion of salmon mortality occurs within the initial months after ocean entry, raising both economic and animal welfare concerns.

Kjetil Berge, R&D Leader at Skretting, emphasizes the importance of collaboration in the study’s success: “By combining Skretting’s feed expertise with QRILL Aqua’s proven nutritional advantages, we were able to conduct tests under real-world farming conditions. This trial showcases how partnerships can lead to innovative solutions for the industry.”

Key Findings from the Trial

The 116-day trial, held at a commercial salmon farm in Harstad, Norway, directly compared a standard diet comprising 15% fishmeal with one incorporating 10% krill meal (QRILL Aqua), effectively reducing fishmeal content by one-third.

Results Summary

• Salmon consuming the QRILL Aqua diet demonstrated a 3% increase in feed consumption.
• Mortality rates were 22% lower in the groups fed with krill meal.
• Salmon on the QRILL Aqua diet exhibited a growth increase of 4.8%.

These findings indicate potential improvements in both fish welfare and overall farm productivity.

Addressing Industry Challenges

As the aquaculture sector gradually shifts towards more plant-based proteins and alternative ingredients, farmers often face issues such as decreased palatability, nutrient disparities, and competition for resources with human food supplies. Kaur reflects on QRILL Aqua’s role in alleviating these challenges: “QRILL Aqua stands out as a sustainable and functional marine ingredient, delivering high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients, thus ensuring that fish maintain health and performance while meeting environmental sustainability goals.”

The study, titled Krill Meal Boosts Growth and Survival in Atlantic Salmon Smolts After Seawater Transfer, is published in the Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences.