Aquaculture Association of Canada

In the evolving landscape of aquaculture, sustainable practices are paramount. A recent article in Aquaculture North America titled "A Sustainable Packaging Solution" delves into innovative approaches that are reshaping the industry's packaging methods. The article highlights the development of eco-friendly packaging materials designed to minimize environmental impact. These solutions aim to reduce waste and enhance the sustainability of aquaculture operations. Implementing such sustainable packaging solutions not only addresses environmental concerns but also aligns with the increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. By adopting these practices, aquaculture businesses can contribute to a more sustainable future while meeting market expectations. For a comprehensive understanding of these innovative packaging solutions and their implications for the aquaculture industry, the full article is available at Aquaculture North America: https://lnkd.in/gRDxrGrS

Ace Aquatec introduced its electric trout stunner to the North American market with a demonstration at the Ontario Aquaculture Association conference in Lindsay, Ontario last week. This innovative device is designed to enhance fish welfare by providing a humane stunning process, ensuring fish are rendered insensible before further handling. The electric trout stunner utilizes advanced technology to deliver a precise electrical charge, effectively and humanely stunning the fish. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also improves product quality by reducing stress-induced issues in fish meat. To facilitate distribution across North America, Ace Aquatec has partnered with Pisces Fish Machinery Inc., a well-established equipment distributor in the region. This collaboration aims to make the electric trout stunner readily accessible to aquaculture operations, promoting the adoption of humane practices industry-wide. The launch of this device in North America signifies a significant advancement in aquaculture, reflecting a growing commitment to animal welfare and sustainable practices. By integrating such technologies, the industry moves towards more ethical and efficient operations, benefiting producers and consumers alike. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/grzZMZ3h

🌊 Advancing Fish Welfare in Aquaculture The Ontario government has just released “Humane Slaughter, Euthanasia, and Depopulation for Salmonid Aquaculture”, a comprehensive guide to best management practices for these critical end-of-life procedures. As global seafood demand rises, the aquaculture industry continues to innovate with technologies, genetics, and production systems designed to scale efficiently and sustainably. Among these advancements are humane methods for slaughter, euthanasia, and depopulation, which not only enhance fish welfare but also improve product quality. Scientific research increasingly recognizes teleost fish as sentient beings capable of experiencing pain and suffering, reinforcing the importance of ethical treatment. With growing consumer, retailer, and regulatory support for sustainable aquaculture practices, adopting humane approaches has never been more vital for the industry's future. This is a positive step forward for aquaculture in Ontario and beyond! 🌎🐟 #Aquaculture #Sustainability #FishWelfare #HumanePractices To download this guide, please visit: https://lnkd.in/gEitmEYw

Researchers from the Ruđer Bošković Institute, in collaboration with Croatian aquaculture company Cromaris, have identified mussel meal as a promising feed supplement to enhance the nutritional profile of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) while promoting sustainable aquaculture practices. The study utilized mussels sourced from bioremediation zones near treated wastewater discharge points. Serving as natural biofilters, these mussels mitigate issues like eutrophication and marine pollution. Incorporating them into aquafeeds not only reduces reliance on traditional fishmeal and fish oil but also lowers the environmental footprint of aquaculture operations. Over a six-week period, 180 juvenile gilthead seabream were fed diets enriched with 2.5% and 5% mussel meal. The results indicated increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA in the fish—nutrients essential for human cardiovascular and cognitive health. This enhancement elevates the market value of gilthead seabream for consumers. Although fish on these diets exhibited slightly lower growth rates compared to those on commercial feeds, feed conversion ratios remained within acceptable ranges. This suggests that, with further refinement, mussel meal could become a viable alternative in aquafeed formulations. Importantly, no adverse effects on fish health or morphology were observed, underscoring the safety of this feed ingredient. This innovative approach exemplifies the principles of a circular economy in aquaculture, transforming underutilized resources into valuable inputs. The mussels, unsuitable for direct human consumption, comply with stringent European Food Safety standards, demonstrating how by-products from one process can enhance another. The researchers advocate for refining feed formulations to minimize the impact of binders and exploring the use of mussel meal in feeds for other marine species, such as sea bass or red seabream. This could significantly broaden its application in Mediterranean aquaculture, advancing sustainability and producing high-quality seafood products. Incorporating mussel meal into commercial aquaculture practices offers a pathway toward more sustainable marine resource management and fosters innovation within the industry. Read the original article here: https://lnkd.in/eB96zPAb

Researchers at Norway's Institute of Marine Research have developed a new genetic method to better understand the welfare challenges associated with sterile, triploid Atlantic salmon. Triploid salmon, created by subjecting fertilized eggs to pressure treatments to retain an extra set of chromosomes, offer environmental benefits by preventing interbreeding with wild populations in case of escape. However, they often face health issues such as skeletal and heart deformities, cataracts, increased susceptibility to infectious diseases, and skin sores. Traditionally, researchers identified triploid salmon by examining blood cells, noting that triploid individuals have larger blood cells due to the extra chromosomes. The new genetic method utilizes genetic markers to trace chromosome inheritance from parents to offspring, revealing that some salmon exhibit aberrant inheritance patterns. Specifically, certain fish were found to be neither fully triploid nor diploid but had a mix—with three sets of DNA on some chromosomes and only two on others. This discovery suggests that the pressure treatment used to induce triploidy may lead to genetic disorders in some fish, potentially explaining their compromised health and welfare. The findings underscore the need for further research to optimize the production of triploid salmon, aiming to mitigate health challenges while leveraging their environmental advantages. This advancement in genetic analysis provides a valuable tool for improving the welfare of triploid salmon in aquaculture. For more information, please visit: https://lnkd.in/g5uMtegW

🚨 FINAL CALL: AAC Student Travel Award Applications Close February 28, 2025! 🚨 Time is running out! Don’t miss your chance to apply for the AAC Student Travel Award and secure financial support to present your research at Aquaculture Canada 2025 in Fredericton, New Brunswick (June 8–11, 2025). Eligibility Checklist: ✅ You’re a student at a recognized institution of higher learning. ✅ You’ll present your research (oral or poster) in person at the conference. ✅ You’re the first author if your paper has multiple authors. ✅ You can demonstrate financial need for assistance. How to Apply: Submit your application as a single document (PDF preferred) to Sarah Cook & Shelby Clarke at aquacultureawards@gmail.com before the deadline. Deadline: February 28, 2025 Don’t wait! This is your last chance to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to showcase your work, network with leaders in aquaculture, and gain valuable professional experience. Apply today and be part of #AC2025NB! #FinalCall #StudentTravelAward #ResearchPresentation #Networking

🚨 FINAL CALL: Lifetime Achievement Award Nominations Close March 3, 2025! 🚨 Time is almost up! This is your last chance to nominate a deserving leader for the AAC Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating exceptional contributions to Canadian aquaculture and the Aquaculture Association of Canada. Eligibility: ✅ Open to current or former AAC members engaged in aquaculture-related activities in Canada. ✅ Nominees from all sectors, industry, academia, or research are welcome. How to Nominate: 📌 Submit a letter explaining why your nominee deserves this honor, highlighting their contributions to aquaculture. 📌 Include letters of support from colleagues, students, or other professionals for a stronger nomination package. 📌 Email all materials to aquacultureawards@gmail.com. ⏳ Deadline: Monday, March 3, 2025 The winner will be announced before Aquaculture Canada 2025 (June 8–11, Fredericton, NB) and recognized during the conference. Don’t wait—nominate a visionary leader today and help us celebrate the achievements that drive our industry forward! #FinalCall #AC2025NB #LifetimeAchievementAward #CanadianAquaculture #LeadershipRecognition

The recognition of aquatic animals as sentient beings has led to a growing emphasis on their welfare within the aquaculture industry. In response, the European Union Reference Centre for Animal Welfare in Aquaculture (EURCAW Aqua) unveiled a digital platform with resources and practical tools around the welfare of aquatic animals. The Aquaculture Welfare Guide, a comprehensive resource aimed at enhancing the well-being of farmed aquatic species is structured around five key pillars of aquatic animal welfare: 🔹 Freedom from Hunger and Thirst: Ensuring consistent access to clean water and appropriate nutrition to maintain health and vigor. 🔹 Freedom from Discomfort: Providing suitable environments that include adequate shelter and comfortable resting areas to prevent distress. 🔹 Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease: Implementing preventive measures and prompt treatments to mitigate health issues, thereby reducing suffering. 🔹 Freedom to Express Normal Behavior: Allowing conditions that enable natural behaviors, such as swimming and social interactions, which are essential for psychological well-being. 🔹 Freedom from Fear and Distress: Creating environments that minimize stress factors, ensuring a sense of security for the animals. These pillars are adapted from the Five Freedoms framework, traditionally applied to terrestrial animals, underscoring the industry's commitment to comparable welfare standards for aquatic species. The Aquaculture Welfare Guide offers actionable interventions for each pillar, serving as a practical tool for aquaculture professionals dedicated to ethical and sustainable practices. By adopting these guidelines, the industry can address common welfare concerns, such as overcrowding, poor water quality, and disease, which have historically impacted farmed fish. The launch of this guide represents a significant advancement in the field of aquatic animal welfare, providing a structured approach to ensure that the needs of farmed aquatic animals are met. As the aquaculture sector continues to expand, resources like the Aquaculture Welfare Guide are essential for promoting humane and responsible farming practices. Read the original article here: https://lnkd.in/gdPxNPhC For more information and to access the guide, visit the EURCAW Aqua website: https://lnkd.in/gZFW5z8q

On February 18, 2025, Canada's Agriculture Day ignited a significant discussion about the recognition of aquaculture as a vital component of the nation's farming sector. Despite aquaculture's substantial contributions to food production and the economy, it often remains on the periphery of traditional agricultural narratives. Advocates argue that integrating aquaculture into the broader agricultural framework is essential for several reasons: 🔹 Economic Impact: Aquaculture plays a crucial role in Canada's economy, providing jobs and supporting local communities. 🔹 Sustainability: Modern aquaculture practices emphasize environmental stewardship, aligning with sustainable farming initiatives. 🔹 Food Security: As a reliable source of protein, aquaculture contributes to national food security, complementing traditional agriculture. Recognizing aquaculture as farming would not only validate the industry's efforts but also promote cohesive policies, research, and development strategies. This acknowledgment is pivotal for fostering innovation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Canada's food systems. As we celebrate Canada's rich agricultural heritage, it's imperative to embrace all facets of food production. Incorporating aquaculture into the agricultural identity reflects the evolving landscape of farming and underscores our commitment to nourishing the nation responsibly.

Sterile Stock Aquaculture: A Key to Sustainable Growth and Disease Control Sterile stocks are becoming increasingly vital in aquaculture, offering promising solutions to some of the industry's most pressing challenges. By creating sterile fish populations, aquaculture operations can enhance production efficiency, protect wild populations, and improve biosecurity. Here's why sterile stocks are gaining traction in the industry: 🔹 Enhanced Biosecurity: Sterile fish, particularly triploid stocks, are unable to reproduce, significantly reducing the risk of escapees potentially breeding with wild fish and disrupting local ecosystems. This is especially critical in areas where aquaculture operations coexist with wild fisheries. 🔹 Improved Growth Rates: Sterile fish, typically triploids, often exhibit faster growth rates compared to their fertile counterparts. Without the energy expenditure of reproduction, these fish can allocate more resources to growth, improving feed conversion efficiency and overall farm productivity. 🔹 Disease Resistance: Sterile stocks are also being explored for their potential to combat diseases. With fewer concerns about breeding and hybridization, researchers are focusing on enhancing their disease resistance, which can lead to healthier fish populations and reduced reliance on antibiotics. 🔹 Conservation Benefits: The use of sterile fish in aquaculture can also aid in conservation efforts. By minimizing the environmental impacts of farming and reducing genetic mixing with wild populations, sterile stocks offer a more sustainable approach to fish farming. In conclusion, sterile stock aquaculture holds great promise for the future of sustainable seafood production. By focusing on biosecurity, disease resistance, and improved growth, it could revolutionize the industry and contribute to the ongoing efforts toward environmental conservation. To read more on this, visit The Fish Site: https://lnkd.in/e-prqGRp #Aquaculture #Sustainability #Biosecurity #SterileStocks #FishFarming #TriploidFish