Overcoming barriers to breeding for increased lice resistance in farmed Atlantic salmon: A case study from Norway

Abstract

This article discusses whether there is an untapped potential in breeding for improved lice resistant salmon roe and fish, and if so, what factor may explain the gap. Three sets of factors that may impact the state of breeding are examined: market-based factors, regulation of breeding technologies, and policy instruments. Methodologically, our data material relies on the literature on breeding for lice resistance and in-depth interviews with key actors in salmon farming and salmon breeding programs. Market-based factors do not stimulate lice resistance in breeding and policy instruments has not targeted breeding measures. Meanwhile, delousing treatments leads to high mortality in fish. This could paradoxically lead to increased demand for fish that better endures harsh delousing treatments rather than demand for more lice resistant fish.

Overcoming barriers to breeding for increased lice resistance in farmed Atlantic salmon: A case study from Norway