Salmon Evolution fish ‘exceeding expectations’
Salmon Evolution, which operates a hybrid recirculation / flow-through on-land fish farm in Norway, has reported continuing strong biological performance from its first batch of smolts.
At the end of June, the average fish weight was estimated to be around 1.5 kg, with observed individuals well above 2 kg.
Salmon Evolution stocked around 100,000 smolts with an average weight of 300g on March 31. The total biomass has increased from 30 tonnes then to 148 tonnes on June 30.
Strong fish health
Feeding and growth numbers have continued to significantly exceed expectations, reflecting good water quality and strong fish health and fish welfare, the company said in a market update. The fish farmer has also continued to see low mortality levels.
“Over the last weeks the Company has also taken out samples for extensive quality testing,” stated Salmon Evolution. “The test results have been very positive, confirming good fish health and filet quality, firm meat texture, nice and consistent red meat colour and excellent salmon taste. Additionally, no issues with early maturation have been observed.
Bigger second batch
“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 it will also include the volumes originally intended for release in August. This will further optimise the production plan and provide more operating flexibility along with the upcoming completion of the remaining grow out tanks.”
Harvesting of the first batch of smolts is planned for the final quarter of 2022.
Norway, Korea and North America
Phase 1 of Salmon Evolution’s facility on Indre Harøy (Harøy Island) will have an annual capacity of 7,900 tonnes (head on gutted) at steady state. Fully developed, the Indre Harøy facility will have an annual capacity of 31,500 tonnes HOG.
The company has also entered into a joint venture with Dongwon Industries to develop, construct and operate a land-based salmon farming facility in South Korea with an annual production capacity of 16,800 tonnes HOG.
Salmon Evolution has also initiated a process with the aim of establishing a land-based salmon farming operation in North America.
