Environmental Interactions

Growing fish in cages where they are in direct contact with the external waterbody has the potential for a number of environmental and ecological interactions. Dissolved and particulate waste products will be lost to the environment and can be a source of nutrients for local flora and fauna. 

Like other infrastructure in our marine and coastal systems, farm infrastructure may influence local hydrodynamics and provide habitat for a range of species. 

It is important to understand these interactions (biology and processes) in order to ensure farming activities are sustainable and that monitoring and management activities are risk appropriate. This is a key element of our research activities.

Click one of the 'interaction' tiles to the right for a more detailed overview of the current understanding of potential interactions between key coastal habitats and salmon farming.

The below infographic highlights some of the key environmental interactions the Aquaculture Environment Team have been researching.

Click on image to enlarge