Salmon Evolution says smolts developing well

Land-based fish farmer Salmon Evolution says the strong biological performance for its first batch of smolts, reported in the company’s Q1 2022 presentation has continued for the remainder of the second quarter.

The company’s initial batch of smolts was released to its on-land fish farm at Indre Harøy, Norway in March this year.

As per 30 June 2022 the average fish weight for the first batch is estimated at around 1.5 kg, with observed individuals well above 2 kg. Feeding and growth numbers have continued to significantly exceed expectations, the company said, reflecting good water quality and strong fish health and fish welfare. Further, Salmon Evolution has continued to see low mortality levels.

Salmon Evolution also rep[orts that samples taken out over the last weeks for extensive quality testing have been very positive, confirming good fish health and fillet quality, firm meat texture, “nice and consistent red meat colour” and excellent salmon taste. Additionally, no issues with early maturation have been observed.

The Company is in the process of preparing for the batch #2 smolt release which is now expected to take place in July. Batch #2 smolt volumes will be significantly upsized compared to the initial plan as these will also include the volumes originally intended for release in August. This will further optimise the production plan, the company said, and provide more operating flexibility along with the upcoming completion of the remaining grow out tanks.

Going forward Salmon Evolution said it intends to publish a similar operational update as soon as possible after the end of each quarter. In the meatime the compnay has also released a video showing the latest progress at Indre Harøy.

Salmon Evolution employs “hybrid flow-through” technology rather than taking a RAS (recirculating aquaculture system) approach. As well as the site at Indre Harøy, the company is collaborating with Korean conglomerate Dongwon Industries on a further site in South Korea, and recently announced its intention to look for a suitable site in North America.

Salmon Evolution farm site, Indre Harøy