Nofima scientists found a way to reduce malformations in farmed cod. (Photo: Nofima)

'Recipe' reduces farmed cod malformations

NORWAY
Thursday, December 03, 2009, 21:30 (GMT + 9)

Nofima scientists recently unveiled a new "recipe" that significantly reduces the rate of malformations in farmed cod. The development is set to improve fish quality and hence fish farmer finances, says the organisation.

The scientists have prepared a set of operational recommendations so that fish farmers can produce more stalwart fish with a low rate of malformation.

The recommendations are presented in a new book about how to avoid malformations in cod and other fish species, which will be published this winter. The target market is everyone involved with fish farming.

"We need to consider the biological limits in the fish," stated Nofima scientist Synnøve Helland.

"The fish is programmed how it shall develop. If we do something incorrectly, it can develop wrong. The majority of malformations occur in the first six months of the cod's life, but they can also form later."

"The temperature and speed of the water that flows through the tanks is important," said Helland. "The optimal temperature for normal development may be lower than the temperature that gives the greatest growth. Our recipe allows the cod to grow slower in the first couple of months, which gives a more robust fish. Since it is so flawless, it will compensate with growth later in life."

The scientists tested their recipe on 80 cod families in 2008. After six months, malformations were found in just three per cent of the fish, which is well below average.

Cod with fewer malformations provide enhanced fish welfare and better profits for the aquaculture industry.

"It costs the same to feed a fish with malformations, but the slaughter weight will be about half a kilo lower," said the scientist. "Fish without malformations provide better earnings for the industry, while it is also of great significance for the welfare of the fish."

The book is entitled "Control of malformation in fish aquaculture; science and practice", and results from the European Union (EU)-financed research project FineFish.

By Denise Recalde
editorial@fis.com
www.fis.com

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