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The role of photoperiod in immune development and health in salmon aquaculture

Activity: Talk or presentationInvited talk

Description

This project investigated how photoperiod regimes used in salmon aquaculture
influence immune function and disease resilience during early development.
Continuous light has long been applied in freshwater systems to maximise
growth, yet little is known about how altered light–dark cycles affected
circadian rhythms and immune competence in salmon. With the increasing
adoption of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), defining light
programmes that maintain both productivity and fish health has been identified
as a priority across the sector.

The research combined experimental trials, functional genomics, and
industry‑relevant pathology and welfare assessments to examine how
contrasting photoperiods shape immune and molecular clock activity in
freshwater salmon. It also explored how early‑life light environments
influence smoltification, seawater transfer, vaccine responsiveness, and
response to disease challenges during marine growth. Through generating this
evidence base, the project aims to support the development of rearing
practices that promote circadian health and contribute to sustainable salmon
production.
Period17 May 2026
Event titleAquaculture UK 2026
Event typeExhibition
LocationGlasgow, United KingdomShow on map
Degree of RecognitionInternational