Why are sea lice mentioned in relation to salmon aquaculture?
Sea lice are naturally occurring marine crustacean (related to shrimp and crab) parasites that affect both wild and farmed fish of all types. Sea lice management is an important issue for both salmon farmers as well as the wild fishery. Although no direct cause and effect relationship between sea lice, salmon farms and wild salmon has been identified, salmon farms are monitored to ensure early detection. Sea lice treatments involve the use of approved therapeutants, such as SLICE. On average, less than five percent of farmed salmon feed contains therapeutants, and a mandatory withdrawal period ensures none is present in the final product sold to consumers.
