Features
From the editor: Putting hatchery health first

Hello all, my name is Catarina Muia and I’m excited to introduce myself as the new editor of Hatchery International magazine. I’m even more thrilled to become part of this growing community dedicated to the knowledge transfer, technology, innovation, discoveries, sustainability, and success of the land-based aquaculture industry, and its related sectors.

While I am still quite new to this industry, one thing has been made very clear to me: the world needs the land-based aquaculture industry. As climate change continues to rapidly effect wild fish stock, industry professionals are working tirelessly to provide solutions and rejuvenate at-risk species. 

A key point in achieving these endeavours is first, knowing how to take care of your fish and ensuring they are healthy. In July, I had the opportunity to moderate the ‘Ask the Vets’ webinar, part of Hatchery International’s 2021 webinar series sponsored by OxyGuard International. The webinar, led by Dr. Mykolas Kamaitis, focused on salmon and trout hatchery health. Attendees learned  about and asked several questions on early rearing and production systems, fish health and disease management, and application of fish health management strategies. 

“Aquaculture is growing and developing quickly, with that comes fish health challenges,” Kamaitis explained during his presentation. “As quickly as we’re making advancements and getting ahead of things, new issues pop up. Fish health is optimized by staying on top of the issues, being prepared, and coming up with new strategies.” Be sure to check out the full webinar featuring a full Q&A session, at www.hatcheryinternational.com/webinars.  

Currently, one area of study in relation to fish health management is determining the optimal conditions for ballan wrasse hatcheries, as ballan wrasse have been found to control sea lice in farmed salmon. Discussing the study, Heather Jones, CEO of the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC), explained: “It builds on years of valuable cleaner fish studies and is a prime example of how innovation and collaboration can help solve challenges in new ways, for the benefit of the entire sector.” Be sure to read the full article, ‘Cleaner fish for cleaner farms’ by Bonnie Waycott, on page 30.

With so many projects, studies, and ventures being pursued, it’s an exciting time for the land-based aquaculture sector, and I’m eager to learn about the industry’s newest and most innovative endeavours by connecting with you, the professionals!

Is there a topic you would like to learn more about, or would like to teach your community about? Feel free to send me an email at cmuia@annexbusinessmedia.com. I would love to hear your feedback and get to know the members of our community. I’m looking forward to meeting and learning from each of you.

With that, I leave you to read, learn, and enjoy this issue of Hatchery International magazine.  

Happy reading!