Publication Abstract

Fin erosion in farmed fish

Fin erosion in farmed fish

T. Ellis, B. Oidtmann, S. St-Hilaire,  J. Turnbull, B. North, C. MacIntyre, J. Nikolaidis, I. Hoyle, S. Kestin and T. Knowles

Fin erosion, degradation of fin tissue, is a common problem in farmed fish affecting a variety of freshwater and marine species. The different fins are differentially prone to erosion; in salmonids the dorsal and caudal fins are most affected. Fin erosion represents injury to live tissues and may cause pain, blood loss, an inflammatory response, barrier breakdown, secondary infection, and restrict behaviour. Fin erosion is therefore a fish welfare issue. Fin erosion has a complex multifactorial aetiology. The primary cause is thought to be physical damage (nipping, abrasion, handling). Secondary factors (e.g. infection) and environmental factors (e.g. water quality) then affect the progress and severity of the condition. Examination of the risk factors for fin erosion indicates that it could potentially be reduced on farms, and recent work suggests that stress may be a direct contributory factor. Fin erosion, as a measure of injury, is suggested to be valid generalised welfare indicator of environmental quality, representing elements of the physical, chemical, bacteriological, and behavioural environment.

Reference:

T. Ellis, B. Oidtmann, S. St-Hilaire,  J. Turnbull, B. North, C. MacIntyre, J. Nikolaidis, I. Hoyle, S. Kestin and T. Knowles (2008) Fin erosion in farmed fish. Fish Welfare, Branson, E. (ed), pp. 121-149, Blackwell, Oxford

T. Ellis* , B. Oidtmann*, S. St-Hilaire*, J. Turnbull, B.P. North, C.M. MacIntyre, J. Nikolaidis, I. Hoyle, S.C. Kestin and T.G. Knowles

Fish Welfare, Branson, E., p. 121-149, Blackwell, Oxford