Presented by Canadian agencies and organizations currently undertaking research in Canada

CANADIAN AQUACULTURE R&D REVIEW Includes 150 summaries of recent research projects on salmon, trout, charr, , , marine species plus special full length features on completed projects across the country. CANADIAN AQUACULTURE R&D REVIEW

Bridging research, development CONTENTS and commercialisation Improving awareness of aquaculture R&D key components are a new internal DFO FINFISH - FRESHWATER...... 3 activities in Canada and increasing transfer of Program for Regulatory Research (PARR) and knowledge and technology to the aquaculture core funding for the Centre for Integrated sector has been the goal of the aquaculture Aquaculture Science, a DFO virtual Centre of FINFISH - SALMON...... 9 R&D review since its inception in 2004. It grew Expertise based in St. Andrews, NB that focuses out of efforts by the federal and provincial on ecosystem-based approaches. The objective governments to improve aquaculture R&D of AIMAP is to improve the competitiveness FINFISH - MARINE...... 15 coordination and communication in Canada. of the Canadian aquaculture industry by This third bi-annual edition continues to encouraging an aquaculture sector that build on the success of the first two editions. It continuously develops and adopts innovative POLYCULTURE...... 18 summarises about 150 R&D projects that have technologies and management techniques been underway since spring of 2007 until now to enhance its global competitiveness and that have received funding from governments. environmental performance. As well, the SEA LICE...... 20 It is available in both English and French, in Natural Sciences and Engineering Research print as well as in various electronic formats Council (NSERC) received new funds for on several web sites (Aquaculture Association a special initiative on natural resources ...... 25 of Canada, AquaPort.ca, and including fisheries and aquaculture. This Canada). This has enabled the summaries to has allowed NSERC to issue a special call reach and inform many interested people. for Strategic Grants and Networks. Both of Miscellaneous...... 42 The current edition captures the breadth these initiatives in DFO and NSERC further of aquaculture R&D activities across the enable collaborative approaches to conducting country, including marine and freshwater R&D and further addresses a way to narrow ORGANIZATION finfish, salmonids, shellfish, seaweeds, wild- the R-D-C gap in ensuring that a complete cultured interactions, integrated multi-trophic innovation cycle is achieved for the aquaculture LISTINGS...... 47 aquaculture, and health. It reflects an sector in Canada. impressive diversity and depth of research The production of this issue was again a expertise across the country. coordinated effort among Dr. Tim DeJager, Over the past two years, the landscape has DFO – Aquaculture Science Branch, and Peter changed significantly with respect to how and Chettleburgh (Capamara Communications The Canadian Aquaculture Research and Development Review where aquaculture R&D is funded and takes Inc.). Tim was responsible for overall has been published with support and funding provided by Fisher- place. The funding mandate of two significant coordination and external communications, ies and Oceans Canada – Aquaculture Collaborative Research and organizations was completed: AquaNet (a Tricia Gheorghe (DFO) was responsible Development Program (ACRDP) and Innovation Network Centre of Excellence in Aquaculture) for coordinating all DFO submissions and Council -- British Columbia Aquaculture Research and Develop- and the Pacific Salmon Forum (PSF). In part, arranging for translation of all the project ment Committee (BCARDC). the AquaNet experience highlighted the descriptions and Peter was responsible for importance of a multi- and inter-disciplinary production. A special thank you is extended Submitted materials may have been edited for length and writing approach in fostering innovation across the to these three, as well as Corina Busby (DFO) style. Projects not included in this edition should submit material country. The PSF was successful in developing and Ingrid Burgetz (DFO) who assisted with in time for the 2011 edition. collaborative approaches to addressing key reviewing the publication and James Lewis for issues of wild Pacific salmon and aquaculture design. Funding for this edition was provided interactions on the west coast of Canada. by the DFO Aquaculture Collaborative R&D In Budget 2008, there were two important Program (ACRDP) and the British Columbia Project Coordinator initiatives for aquaculture R&D. Within Aquaculture Research and Development Tim DeJager, Ph.D. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), there Committee of the BC Innovation Council. co3 Consulting were new resources for an aquaculture regulatory science program and funds for the Jay Parsons, PhD, Aquaculture Science Branch, Produced and Distributed By Design by James Lewis Aquaculture Innovation and Market Access Fisheries and Oceans Canada Capamara Communications Inc. Capamara Program (AIMAP). The regulatory research Al Castledine, PhD, BC Ministry of 4623 William Head Road, Victoria, Communications Inc. program aims to increase the availability and Agriculture and Lands BC, V9C 3Y7 accessibility of research to support aquaculture siting and environmental management. Two Tim DeJager, PhD, co3 consulting FINFISHFINFISH - freshwwater - FRESHWATER

Researchers quantify nutrient fluxes from fish farms in fresh water Perceived risk of altering the trophic status of lakes is cur- rently limiting the development of Canadian freshwater aquaculture. This perception persists despite the operation of fish farms and extensive environmental monitoring by farms in the North Channel for more than 20 years. They have yet to document detectable increases in nutrient con- centrations. At the same time there is a lack of sound scien- tific knowledge regarding aquaculture’s potential effects on receiving waters and sediments. Organic loading from fish cage farms increases the total nutrient content of the sediments and it can also increase the concentration of soluble forms that can be released into the overlying water. However, the fate of those nutrients (burial or release back to the water column) and the factors Summer 2008 field season in the North Channel (Photo: K. Boulton) regulating that fate in sediments affected by aquaculture wastes are poorly understood. Researchers are conducting investigations to quantify the effects of sediment chemistry and water temperature on the nutrient release rates from Ontario team the sediments affected by fish wastes. investigates what Duration: Mar ‘07 – Mar ‘08 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Aqua-cage Fisheries Ltd. happens to rainbow Project team: Paula Azevedo (DFO), Cheryl Podemski (DFO), M. Robin Anderson (DFO), Gord Cole (Aqua-cage Fisheries Ltd.) For information contact: Paula Azevedo ([email protected]) trout that escape net

In situ N and P fluxes measurement pens In the North Channel of Lake Huron farmed rainbow trout are being marked and released to emulate both small- and large- Research advances the fight against scale ‘escape events’. Through the release of small numbers of farmed rainbow trout outfitted with telemetry transmitters, coldwater disease on Ontario trout farms scientists hope to determine the spatial extent of escapee move- ments and their potential for interaction with native fish species based on habitat selection. Bacterial coldwater disease is caused by An additional objective of this work is to In the summer of 2008, the team implanted farmed rainbow Flavobacterium psychrophilum and is the primary raise antisera to these proteins of interest. trout with telemetry transmitters and released equal numbers of disease of concern for operations that The project also involves a treatment trial fish (20) at two farms. Preliminary results show that many of the use groundwater. Researchers are preparing to to determine the efficacy of florfenicol as a escaped fish remained in close proximity to the farms, and also conduct autogenous vaccine trials for coldwater therapeutic measure to blunt the impact of that these fish were susceptible to and angling. disease. But in order for this strategy to be coldwater disease. Florfenicol is used to treat In the 2009 field season, researchers plan to extend the effective, more research is needed. outbreaks of coldwater disease and appears telemetry research and conduct large-scale releases of farmed The strains of F. psychrophilum specific to be effective in the short term. What is not rainbow trout (1000 at each farm). Recapture data are expected to Ontario must be identified. The growth known is if treatment in early stages (<1 g) can to provide survival and growth rates for escaped fish, which are conditions required for optimum expression produce long-term improvements in fish health critical to understanding the potential impacts on native fisher- of virulence and immunogenic proteins must and farm productivity. ies and food webs. be characterized and effective production monitoring systems developed to ensure that Duration: Aug ‘07 – Mar ‘09 improved performance can be evaluated. Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: AquaCage Fisheries Duration: Jul ‘08 – Mar ‘11 The research team has been using two- Ltd., Lyndon Fish Hatcheries, University of Guelph Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Meeker’s Aquaculture Canada Inc., North dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis Wind Fisheries Ltd. Project team: John S. Lumsden (U Guelph), Arman for comparison of culture conditions that Yazdanpanah (U Guelph), Shohreh Hesami (U Guelph), Project team: Paul Blanchfield (DFO), Doug Geiling (DFO), Tom Johnston (Lau- influence protein expression ofF. psychrophilum. Paul Huber (U Guelph), Doug Geiling (DFO), Gord Cole rentian U/OMNR), Kristen Patterson (MSc student, U of Manitoba), Lori Tate They have identified several proteins that are (AquaCage Fisheries Ltd.), Sean Pressey (Lyndon Fish (DFO), Chris Wilson (Trent U/OMNR), Dan Glofcheskie (North Wind Fisheries strong candidates and are screening larger Hatcheries) Ltd.), Mike Meeker (Meeker’s Aquaculture Canada Inc.) numbers of strains. For information contact: John Lumsden ([email protected]) For information contact: Paul Blanchfield ([email protected])

Source water protection has emerged as a prior- Researchers believe that properly designed ity science area in Ontario. Aquatic systems are wetlands can perform well in colder climates too. Project experiencing increased loading of nutrients, Hence this project is a step towards the research pathogens, and emerging contaminants such as needed to validate applications of constructed pharmaceuticals. Consequently, land-based fish wetlands which would then be subject to regula- investigates farms are faced with increasingly stringent regula- tion by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, tions on the discharge of effluent. the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Conventional wastewater treatment systems Rural Affairs, and/or the Ministry of Municipal effectiveness currently used to treat aquaculture effluent are Affairs and Housing through the Ontario Build- ecologically and economically expensive to build, ing Code. operate, and maintain and they treat parameters of constructed within a relatively narrow range. Constructed wet- Duration: May ‘07 – Mar ‘10 lands have been shown to be effective at remov- ing or reducing the concentrations of nitrogen Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Ontario Trillium Foun- dation, Haliburton County Development Corporation wetlands and phosphorous, pathogens and emerging con- taminants such as pharmaceuticals and personal Project team: Brent Wootton (FC), Chris Metcalfe (Trent U), care products in wastewater effluent. However, Robin Slawson (WLU), Tom Pratt (DFO), Mark Williamson much of the research on treatment wetlands has (FC), Stephen Thompson (FC), Scott Miles (FC), Kyla Greenham for treating been done in warmer or more moderate climates (Haliburton Hatchery), Karl Dickob (Fisheries and Aquaculture Enhancement Association) such as the equatorial areas and warmer regions of the United States and Europe. For information contact: Brent Wootton aquaculture waste ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 3 FINFISH - freshwater Researchers scale up phase-feeding in rainbow trout to reduce phosphorous discharges

In operations, phosphorous, which is an essential nutrient for skeletal development and growth, is obtained almost entirely from dietary sources. Dis- charges of phosphorous into the environ- ment from fish farms come largely from feed that is not ingested by the fish or from ingested phosphorous that exceeds the organism’s physiological require- ments. Intensive aquaculture can generate environmental phosphorous loadings that Installing a current meter in Lake Diefenbaker, SK. (Photo: Heather Zanzerl) contribute to eutrophication of sensitive receiving water bodies. These phosphorous discharges can be Predictive modeling reduced by directly modifying the bioavail- ability of this element and the composi- tools assist freshwater tion of the fish feed. The first objective of the research team is to optimize the formulation of a phosphorous-deficient site licensing decisions diet. The second objective is to determine the alternating sequence of phosphorous- Governmental agencies charged with the responsibility of licens- sufficient and phosphorus-deficient diets ing and regulating the aquaculture industry need objective tools to maximize growth of rainbow trout and to assist in their decision-making processes. The development of minimize phosphorous discharges. such tools would benefit industry, since the main factor limiting The results of this project will contrib- the expansion of the freshwater industry is access to new sites. ute directly to the sustainable develop- The lack of tools to estimate ecological consequences of new ment of the Canadian aquaculture indus- sites has resulted in a very precautionary atmosphere, a complex try. This type of dietary regime could be a and expensive application process and, ultimately, limited devel- Laboratoire règional des sciences aquatiques (LARSA) (Photo: E. useful tool to help aquaculture producers Boucher, D. Proulx) opment of the industry. achieve the objectives of Quebec’s fresh- Aquaculture has the potential to have far-ranging impacts on water aquaculture development strategy the lake ecosystem. Increased nutrient inputs can affect overall (STRADDAQ). ecosystem productivity and excessive nutrient inputs can lead to eutrophication. This can have undesirable consequences such as nuisance algal blooms, oxygen deficiency and loss of biodi- Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘11 versity. The deposition of sold wastes under farms contributes to Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded increased sediment oxygen demand as well as the potential to by: SORDAC, FQRNT, RAQ, NRC- significantly alter the quality of benthic habitat and the composi- IRAP tion of benthic communities beneath and surrounding farms. Project team: Grant Vandenberg (U There are five components to the strategy to develop object- Laval), Johanie Fournier (U Laval), ive tools. These include evaluating DEPOMOD, developing a Eric Boucher (IPSFAD), Emilie Proulx dispersion model, developing a benthic impacts model, testing (U Laval), Joël de la Noüe (U Laval), particle dispersion and benthic impacts models, and modeling Daniel Proulx (U Laval), Rémy Lam- ecological effects. bert (U Laval) For information contact: Grant Vandenberg Duration: Jul ‘08 – Mar ‘12 ([email protected]) Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Wild West Steelhead, SE, U Sask Project team: Cheryl Podemski (DFO), Paula Azevedo (DFO), Dominique Bureau (U Guelph), Rob Tkach (DFO), Adam McFee (DFO), Doug Watkinson (DFO), David Ross (DFO), Peter Ashcroft (SE), John Geisey (U Sask), Dean Foss (Wild West Laboratoire règional des sciences aquatiques (LARSA) (Photo: E. Boucher, D. Steelhead) Proulx) For information contact: Cheryl Podemski ([email protected])

Cinnamon oil compound tested to control fungus infection in trout The common fungus Saprolegnia parasitica is The researchers are also measuring the a “water mold” that infects dead fish eggs impact of the treatment (bath or in feed, and spreads to healthy eggs. It also infects depending on the test) on the egg hatching the yolk sac and digestive tract of fry that rate as well as on fry malformation and are just starting to feed. With the banning survival rates. The treatment is also being of malachite green, the salmon farming validated for aquaculture purposes. industry urgently needs new effective and inexpensive treatments for this mold which Duration: Apr ‘06 – Mar ‘09 have no negative effects on fish, humans, or the environment. Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: SORDAC, U Montreal, Pisciculture des Alleghanys Inc., Pisciculture Some natural antifungal agents de la Jacques-Cartier Inc. appear to have the desired qualities, and cinnamaldehyde, derived from the Project team: Grant Vandenberg (U Laval), Pierre Belhu- oil in the bark of cinnamon trees, is meur (U Montreal), Arianne Faille (U Montreal), Éric being investigated. The effectiveness of Boucher (IPSFAD), Émilie Proulx (U Laval), Daniel Proulx (U Laval), Richard Le Boucher (U Laval), cinnamaldehyde on the fungus, in vitro as Gabrielle Fortin, Marie-Ève Gervais, Amélie Potvin Saprolegnia spores (Photo: E. Proulx, A. Faille) well as on the eggs and fry of brook trout Inset: Alevin infected by Saprolegnia (Photo: É. Boucher, É. Proulx) (S. fontinalis) and rainbow trout (O. mykiss), For information contact: Grant Vandenberg is being tested and compared to malachite ([email protected]) green, formaldehyde and bronopol.

4 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 FINFISH - freshwwater

Workshop participants take first step to investigating development of a national program for rainbow trout

Model Farm in Denmark (Photo: G. Vandenberg)

Trout eggs and alevins (Photo: E. Proulx)

Canadian model If the freshwater aquaculture industry is to realize its poten- tial, the ‘unofficial’ moratorium it faces must be addressed in a rational manner. Sustainable development must prog- ress by means of research, development, and technology aqua-farm initiative transfer activities in priority areas that are currently limiting its expansion. One of those priorities is the establishment of a national broodstock program to enhance performance in rainbow begins in Manitoba trout, specifically targeting improved fillet yield, enhanced growth rate and greater tolerance to warm-water conditions. As a first step in this process, the Interprovincial Partner- The Canadian Model ship for the Sustainable Freshwater Aquaculture Develop- Aqua-Farm Initiative ment (IPSFAD) held a workshop on creating a selection involves developing and and breeding program for rainbow trout aquaculture in constructing a state- Canada. This event, held in February 2009, drew together of-the-art commercial various Canadian stakeholders of the rainbow trout aquacul- land-based freshwater ture industry and Canadian and international specialists in aquaculture production the genetic field to establish priorities. It also brought old system intended to be and new players together to establish new partnerships for the basis for a stan- the benefit of the future national broodstock program. dardized approach to freshwater aquaculture production. In addition, this first model farm will be heavily monitored to document the economic and environmental per- formance of the model design. The anticipated outcome is a model for a ‘turn-key’ freshwater aquaculture opera- Rainbow trout market (Photo: IPSFAD) tion that will catalyze the development of a sustainable freshwater and management, production management, aquaculture industry in Canada. and operational practices and standards. All Expansion within the freshwater aquacul- of these factors combine to optimize both ture sector is dependent upon development financial and environmental performance. The and implementation of a strategic approach model farm is expected to establish norms and to generate the knowledge, technologies and baseline standards pertaining to the biologi- practices necessary to resolve challenges. Devel- cal, technological, financial and environmental opment of a land-based ‘model farm’ program sustainability of aquaculture. is a priority initiative in the 3rd Industrial Ac- The first beta site for development of the tion Plan of the Interprovincial Partnership for Canadian Model Aqua-Farm is in Manitoba. Sustainable Freshwater Aquaculture Develop- It is anticipated that two additional beta sites ment (IPSFAD). will be developed – one in Saskatchewan and In March 2007, IPSFAD assembled a group another in Alberta or British Columbia. Genetic selection program of recognized national and international (Photo: E. Proulx) authorities on the design, operation, manage- Duration: Jul ‘08 – Dec ‘11 ment and regulation of land-based aquaculture Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: MAFRI, IPSFAD, Duration: Jan ‘09 – Mar ‘09 systems to develop the Canadian Model Aqua- DFO-ACRDP, NRC-IRAP, Riddell’s Roasters Inc. Farm concept. Funded by: NSERC - Strategic Workshops Program Co-funded by: DFO- The ‘Canadian Model Aqua-Farm’ will be a Project team: Daniel Stechey (Canadian Aquaculture Sys- NASAPI, DFO-ACRDP, NOAA, NRC-IRAP tems), Grant Vandenberg (U Laval), Jeff Eastman (MAFRI), production unit that effectively integrates the Eric Boucher (IPSFAD), Bill Robertson (Huntsman Marine Project team: Rich Moccia (U Guelph), Grant Vandenberg (U Laval), Eric most current technologies in terms of nutrition Science Centre), Rudy and Leslie Reimer Boucher (IPSFAD), Karen Tracey (NOAA), Steve Naylor (OMAF), David and feeding strategy, fish health management, Bevan (U Guelph), Michael Burke (U Guelph) For information contact: Daniel Stechey ([email protected]) design of infrastructure and equipment, water For information contact: Rich Moccia ([email protected]) conservation and utility, manure processing

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 5 FINFISH - freshwater Researchers begin developing predictive models and nutrient trigger limits for cage culture in lakes

In Ontario, the Great Lakes quality, benthic communities means to collect the appropri- provide a potential opportu- (excess feed and feces), and ate physical and chemical data nity for growth in the fresh native fisheries. Industry, regu- essential to address current water sector. But perceived lators, as well as academic and “science gaps” and provide environmental impacts are other government agencies sound data for use in devel- presently restricting the are striving to create a sustain- opment of predictive models growth of this industry. The able ecosystem approach that and trigger limits. The com- need for sustainable environ- would include a sustainable ponents include developing a Composted fish waste (Photo: NOAA) mental management of cage- aquaculture industry. study plan to collect relevant aquaculture farms is of the This work is a component physical and chemical data, utmost importance to preserve of a larger project to develop reviewing existing physical and Analysis of composted the ecological integrity of the predictive models and nutrient chemical data, consulting with Great Lakes. The environ- trigger limits for a lake with owner/operators of fish farms fish waste enables farm to mental concerns include, but cage aquaculture. The goal of to collect relevant informa- are not limited to, the impact this work is to organize, plan tion, generating detailed maps of farming activities on water and implement the necessary and illustrations of sampling meet regulatory guidelines locations, and developing a model of assimilative capacity in Ontario and estimating nutrient load- ing from farms. Increased restrictions and costs of rendering animal products, This work will increase the a partial response to outbreaks of bovine spongiform enceph- understanding of water move- alopathy (BSE) in North America, have resulted in changes ment, fluctuations, and the nu- to the Dead Animal Disposal Act and stimulated the review of trient regimes of a freshwater composting techniques for carcass disposal. Furthermore, there lake with caged-aquaculture. is the opportunity to produce a value-added product from waste This output will be used by that incurs ever increasing disposal costs. Ontario regulators to make A private fish farmer in Northern Ontario has developed a more informed science-based composting system for fish waste. The system utilizes fish pro- decisions to enable develop- cessing waste and dead stock along with locally available waste ment of a sustainable freshwa- sawdust in an aerobic digester to produce compost. While fur- ter aquaculture industry. ther refinement of the production process is ongoing, sampling procedures and analysis requirements have been finalized and Duration: Jan ‘08 – Jan ‘09 the operation could produce over 2,000 tonnes of compost per year. The compost from this process is now analysed. Funded by: EC The Ontario Ministry of the Environment (OMOE) has Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U regulatory guidelines for the production and use of aerobic Guelph), Jacqui Milne (U Guelph) compost in Ontario. These guidelines include site construc- For information contact: tion, operational methods and quality analysis. To comply with Richard D. Moccia OMOE guidelines for the sale of commercial compost, selected ([email protected]) metals and organic chemicals must not exceed stated levels and Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph. minimum concentrations of certain plant nutrients (e.g., N, ca/~aquacentre P, K), organic matter, and carbon:nitrogen ratio are desirable. The required chemical analysis and compilation of the ensuing results were the focus of the project.

Duration: Jul ‘06 – Jul ‘08 Funded by: EC Co-funded by: DFO-ACRDP Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U Guelph), David Bevan (U Guelph), Mike Meeker (Meeker’s Aquaculture Canada Inc.), Doug Geiling (DFO) For information contact: Richard D. Moccia ([email protected]) Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph.ca/~aquacentre Sediment core sampling (Photo: B. Lalonde)

Computer tool supports regulator decision-making for site applications in Ontario

A computerized Decision Support Tool ment, Consultation, Navigable Waters, and (DST) is being developed to provide a con- Crown Land Tenure. sistent formula to regulators in the review of DST decision points result in a colour aquaculture license applications. It is tied to rating (green, yellow, orange or red) for each a four-stage process. Any persons seeking to of the ten categories reflecting the level of obtain an aquaculture license to culture fish risk. The “Recommendation Tab” assigns an in cages in open water must submit to OMNR overall rating to the final application based on detailed information on the site, location, wa- the number of green, yellow, orange and red ter chemistry, surrounding ecosystem, public ratings for the ten categories and provides a and aboriginal concerns and the proposed final recommendation. operational plan, as well as a risk analysis. This information will be entered into the DST by Duration: 2005 – 2009 the applicant and submitted to OMNR. The DST becomes the application package, and Funded by: COA Co-funded by: AquaNet, OMAFRA supports regulators in deciding whether an Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U Guelph), Quentin application should be approved or denied, or Day (OMNR), Lisa-Miller Dodd (OMNR), Laura Blease identifies the need for further information or (OMOE), Amy Pogue (OMOE), Dave Ross (DFO), Wayne consideration. Hyatt (DFO), Nardia Ali (EC), Steve Naylor (OMAFRA), The DST has ten worksheets which contain David Bevan (U Guelph), Gregor Reid (UNB) the decision criteria and document decision For information contact: Richard D. Moccia points which lead to a rating of risk pertain- ([email protected]) ing to the 10 categories - Fish Habitat, Fish Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph.ca/~aquacentre Health, Fish Communities, Species at Risk, Operational Practices, Water Quality, Sedi- Decision Support Tool for cage aquaculture in Ontario

6 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 FINFISHFINFISH - freshwwater - FRESHWATER Newer feed formulations Feed company require updating of fish evaluates alternative waste composition for fat sources in feed Ontario regulations formulations for

Recently, there has been evidence that elevated levels of certain rainbow trout trace metals might accumulate under fish cages, which may war- rant additional environmental concern. More recently, there has been discussion by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, regarding the use of toxicity testing of benthic deposits (primar- The cost of feed is the single most significant factor ily fecal and feed wastes) below cage farms, as a possible means in the economics of rainbow trout production. Fish of assessing environmental impacts. All land-based fish farms in oil sources in trout diets are expensive and because Ontario that require ‘Certificates of Approval’ for the collection availability is expected to decline while demand and handling of effluent, need acceptable ‘Standard Operating continues to increase, feed prices are expected to Procedures’ (SOP’s) for the disposal of materials collected in increase, contributing to higher costs of fish produc- tion. the licensed sewage treatment works. Hand-feeding rainbow trout (Photo: D. Bevan) A detailed chemical analysis of fish feces from Ontario Fats and lipids are essential nutrients for fish. aquaculture farms has been previously reported. However, the They are an important energy source, they allow formulations and ingredients used in in absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, they play a role in Ontario have changed significantly over the last 15 years. Nota- membrane structure and they are components of hormones. There are several alternative sources bly, there has been an increase towards higher energy diets, total of fats suitable for commercial trout diets. These sources can be used to manufacture a variety of phosphorus concentrations have been reduced, fish-meal and diets, containing different protein:energy ratios, that may result in different growth responses. plant meal types have changed, and there has been a reduction The test diets in this trial are manufactured with commercially available products approved of the non-digestible materials (mainly carbohydrates and fibre) under the Canadian Feeds Act. The feed manufacturer desires to know if these substitutes are suit- to create ‘nutrient-dense’ diets. able in rainbow trout diet formulation such that they maintain nutrient quality in a cost efficient Therefore, research on the composition of rainbow trout manner. feces warrants updating of this previously published material in Growth performance, feed efficiency, morbidity, mortality, feeding behaviour and carcass yield order to reflect present day feed standards and management are being used to assess the performance of the test diets, allowing comparison to existing com- practices. This investigation provides an updated chemical mercial diets. analysis of feces collected from Ontario rainbow trout fed con- The anticipated benefit will be the ability to evaluate the effects of formulation on growth temporary commercial feeds and addresses the implications of efficiency and overall profitability for both the trout producer and on carcass yield for the fish these findings to the Ontario Nutrient Management Act and its processor. regulatory compliance. Duration: Mar ‘07 – Nov ‘07 Duration: Jun ‘06 – Jun ‘07 Funded by: Martin Mills Inc. Co-funded by: OMAFRA Funded by: EC Co-funded by: OMAFRA Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U Guelph), Michael Burke (U Guelph), Mark Wagner (Martin Mills Inc.) Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U Guelph), David Bevan (U Guelph), Gregor For information contact: Richard D. Moccia ([email protected]) Reid (DFO) Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph.ca/~aquacentre For information contact: Richard D. Moccia ([email protected]) Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph.ca/~aquacentre Monitoring flow of water on land-based fish farms enables better management Vertical temperature of Ontario water resources profiles aim to improve The management of surface farm management at and ground water in Ontario is legislated by the Ontario lake sites Water resources Act (OWRA) and accompanying regulations. Year-round vertical temperature profiles at different cage The Water Taking and Transfer site environments are being investigated in order to under- Regulation (O.Reg 387/04) Sec- stand temperature fluctuations to which fish are exposed tion 9 requires all permit holders and to learn how this may affect aquaculture management. to collect and record data on the Correlating these temperature profiles to farm productivity actual volume of water taken daily and health of the fish can assist decision making by farmers and to report this data to the On- on topics such as feeding, health maintenance and waste tario Ministry of the Environment management. (MOE) annually. The volume of Reporting covers all of the plots of the different tempera- water taken must be measured by ture profiles and relevant site-specific data tables. Sugges- a flow meter or calculated using tions are being made on how farmers can use this informa- a ministry approved method. Sev- tion to streamline their operational procedures for more eral publications are available to MagFlow Water Meter Assembly (Photo: D. Bevan) effective management. assist permit holders comply with The goal is to make the aquaculture industry as environ- these regulations and an online measurement device and provides a detailed mentally dynamic as possible by incorporating all relevant data reporting system has been developed. evaluation on the use of electronic “Magnetic monitoring parameters into adaptive management strategies Knowledge of the actual water taking flow meters” recently installed at the Alma which may be useful in minimizing the impacts of farms on data, as opposed to the maximum permit- Aquaculture Research Station of the University the environment, and improving the health and quality of ted amount, will allow better management of of Guelph. the fish produced. Ontario’s water resources through the develop- ment of water budgets and watershed-based Duration: Jul ‘06 – Apr ‘08 planning and development strategies. Duration: May ‘07 – Dec ‘08 Funded by: EC Co-funded by: OMAFRA Most land-based aquaculture facilities hold a Funded by: EC Permit to Take Water (PTTW) with a variety of Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U Guelph), David Bevan Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U Guelph), Kris Osuchowski (U Guelph) conditions attached. This project reviews poten- (U Guelph) For information contact: Richard D. Moccia ([email protected]) tial methods available for water flow monitor- For information contact: Richard D. Moccia (rmoccia@ ing at land-based aquaculture farms, outlines uoguelph.ca) Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph.ca/~aquacentre the criteria used for selection of an appropriate Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph.ca/~aquacentre

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 7 FINFISH - freshwater Investigating radiation bystander effects in fish

In radiation biology, the ac- the effects of direct irradiation cepted principle of exposure (e.g., DNA damage, apoptosis is that the effect of radiation or necrosis). is directly related to the dose This project addresses po- which is received (i.e., an in- tential concerns about heated crease in the dose results in a waste water from nuclear directly proportional increase power plants. The presence of in the cellular or genetic level a bystander effect could have effect). However, at very low important consequences for radiation doses the effects the safe use of heated effluent begin to deviate from what water for increasing aquacul- would be the classical predict- ture production, as well as its ed model of exposure effects. potential impact upon the X-ray irradiation of trout eggs (Photo: D. Bevan) This deviation is thought to reproductive success of fish, be a result of the so-called ‘By- including the . important implications in epi- advantageous effects on the (McMaster U), Carmel E. Mothersill stander Effect’. The bystander Additionally, the project demiology and resource man- genetics and/or physiology of (McMaster U), Richard W. Smith agement, because this work is impacted fish species. (McMaster U), Richard D. Moccia effect has been demonstrated may also support a new para- (U Guelph) in cultured cells and occurs digm in our understanding of demonstrating that there may when cells which have not the effects of exposure to low be unexpected responses to Duration: Nov ‘06 – May ‘10 For information contact: Colin Seymour been irradiated but are in the levels of radiation and syner- low level effects of radiation ([email protected]) exposure, and these may have Funded by: NSERC Co-funded by: proximity of a radiated cell, gistic responses. The notion OMAFRA Website: http://www.aps.uoguelph. begin to exhibit some or all, of of a “bystander effect” has both detrimental as well as ca/~aquacentre Project team: Colin B. Seymour

Ontario advances coordinated New Brunswick process for cage aquaculture sites Institute conducts

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources aquaculture industry in a manner providing for genetics program to (OMNR), Fish Culture Section, received fund- ecologically sustainable growth. By working to- ing through the Canada Ontario Agreement gether, the guidelines and decision support tool improve Arctic char (COA), for 2004-09, to develop detailed guide- we develop will help to minimize the ecological lines for cage aquaculture site assessment and risks associated with aquaculture and will sup- In recent years, the Coastal Zone monitoring, along with a decision support tool port the harmonization process. Research Institute (CZRI) has been to provide guidance working with the New Brunswick, to regulators. The Nova Scotia and Quebec fish farm- guidelines, when ing industry to genetically improve completed, will set Arctic char in order to develop out the specific data leading-edge solutions to ensure the collection require- production of high-quality eggs with ments for an ap- known genealogy. plicant, including CZRI is breeding this species in collection methodol- captivity to select the highest-per- ogy and rationale, forming individuals in each generation for intensive and also identify any production. Researchers are currently at the fourth ongoing monitoring generation, which means these are higher-performing requirements. fish. CZRI is the only organization in the world that is The decision sup- rearing a Fraser strain broodstock with a known pedi- port tool will provide gree. guidance to regula- This research project is also intended to create tors in the review of several high-performing families of Arctic char. This aquaculture license is essential for maintaining the genetic diversity of the applications for new stock, which will make it possible to rear a fifth gen- sites as well as chang- eration and all-female lots that perform as well as the es and ongoing licens- preceding generations. ing at existing sites. The program also includes scientific studies on the The funding for this evaluation of growth, salinity tolerance, flesh pigmen- project is contingent Ontario aquaculture cage farm (Photo: D. Bevan) tation, late maturation, effects of triploidy, and the on the development continuous improvement of rearing techniques. of a partnership with Duration: Jan ‘04 – Dec ‘09 academic partners, University of Guelph, and Duration: 2004 – 2010 other government organizations with responsi- Funded by: COA Co-funded by: U Guelph, OMAFRA, OMOE, DFO, EC Funded by: ACOA-AIF Co-funded by: NBIF, NB DAA-Total Develop- bilities for aquaculture in Ontario. ment Fund, NSERC This project is consistent with the mandate Project team: Quentin Day (OMNR), Lisa-Miller Dodd of the Aquaculture Task Group (ATG) of the (OMNR), Laura Blease (OMOE), Amy Pogue (OMOE), Dave Project team: Claude S. Pelletier (CZRI), Michel Poitras (CZRI), Gilles Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ross (DFO), Wayne Hyatt (DFO), Nardia Ali (EC), Steve Nay- David (CZRI), Joël Cormier (CZRI), Guelph University, Merlin Fish Farm, NB DAA, CJL Pisciculture, Aquaculture Nord’est Ministers (CCFAM) to address site access issues lor (OMAFRA), Richard Moccia (U Guelph), David Bevan and to focus on improving and harmonizing (U Guelph) For information contact: Claude S. Pelletier the site application and review processes. It also For information contact: Quentin Day ([email protected]) assists Ontario in continuing to regulate the ([email protected])

8 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 FINFISH - salmon Study to investigate protective effect of UV on fin abrasion

Now in its third year, a DFO co-funded study on the effects of ultra-violet radiation (UVR) on salmon fin abrasion is getting down to brass tacks. After two years of work with three strains of Pacific salmon, Dr. Max Bothwell of Environ- ment Canada and Dr. Blair Holtby of DFO, will Juvenile Big Qualicum Chinook. (Photo: Max Bothwell) be narrowing their focus to one strain this year, and trying to determine the effect of stocking densities on a previously-demonstrated “protec- tive” effect of UVR exposure in young salmo- nids. The current work is being co-funded by DFO‘s Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Development Program (ACRDP) and Creative Tank set-up at Sea Spring Hatchery. (Photo: Max Bothwell) Salmon Company Ltd., a BC firm interested in improving the appearance and quality of chinook salmon for the high-end Japanese image analysis software was used to quantify fin gourmet market. damage. Both the Big Qualicum coho and the Yukon chinook showed significantly higher fin- A UVR paradox fraying without UVR exposure. The Big Quali- cum chinook continued to appear unaffected, UVR is a short- wavelength, high-energy regardless of exposure. With lower stocking component of natural sunlight that has long densities in these trials, the effects were some- been demonstrated to have a variety of nega- what less pronounced than previous observa- tive effects on living organisms. The current tions, but remained significant. investigations began in 2007 when Max Both- In this final year of the current ACRDP well decided to follow up on previous anec- funding, work is underway at Sea Spring’s Downloading radiation exposure data in the field. (Photo: Max Bothwell) dotal observations of juvenile coho. Young to investigate in more detail the ef- reared indoors or under cover developed badly fects of stocking densities and UV radiation abraded fins, while those reared in open tanks with Yukon chinook, the strain that Creative outdoors or in shallow “free-run” flumes consis- Salmon is interested in developing for their tently did not. This went against conventional Japanese markets. Bothwell also wants to study wisdom about the damaging effects of UV, a hormone responses mediated by the pineal nagging paradox that could have important glands of fish under different conditions, seek- repercussions for hatchery operations. Prelimi- ing a possible mechanism for the apparent nary work in flumes and Capilano troughs with protective effect of UVR on fin health. populations of coho fry confirmed the protec- Future studies would allow the team to tive effects of UV radiation and ruled out the relate protective response to gradients of UVR involvement of pathogens. intensity, timing and duration, both indoors The project began with Bothwell and his BC and outdoors, and identify the exact physiologi- team performing UVR exposure trials on Big cal mechanisms responsible for the protection Qualicum chinook pre-smolts. They were aston- from fin abrasion in UVR-exposed fish. This ished to find no measurable difference between could translate into direct health benefits for exposed and sheltered populations, an indi- hatcheries and improved product quality across cation that the previously noted “protective” the industry. effect of UVR on coho fins might be species- or strain-specific, dependent on timing, or due to Duration: Jan ‘08 – Oct ‘09 unknown factors. In 2008 the team ran expanded trials at Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Creative Salmon Co. the Sea Spring Hatchery in Chemainus, BC, Ltd. Yukon chinook exposed to photoactive radiation (PAR) alone and to both PAR and ultraviolet radiation (UVR) show visible differences after five months. using three different strains of salmon: Big Project team: Blair Holtby (DFO), Max Bothwell (EC), D. (Photo: Max Bothwell) Qualicum chinook, Big Qualicum coho and Groves (Sea Spring Salmon Farm Ltd.), Jake Etzkorn (DFO) Yukon chinook. Tanks were covered with either For information, contact: Blair Holtby UV-transparent or UV-opaque Plexiglass, and ([email protected]) Molecular genetic capabilities to improve strains of Chinook salmon in BC

Chinook salmon farming in British Columbia has been Molecular mapping and gene microarray tech- underway for more than 20 years and remains an im- nology are being utilized in this project to enhance portant industry that provides significant commercial molecular genetic capabilities for Chinook salmon. and social benefit to the Province. The future success Investigation is focused on carotenoid pigment deposi- of salmon farming, as with all agricultural activities, tion in flesh as a major trait system, but also monitor- depends upon continual application of science. In ing growth rate, survival, and age of maturation within particular, application of emerging genomic methodol- these experiments. ogies has significant potential to facilitate the develop- ment and improvement of salmon strains in BC. Duration: Jul ‘08 – Jul ‘12 For example, developing a molecular genetic map for Chinook salmon will allow the identification of Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Yellow Island Aquaculture Ltd. genes involved in commercially important traits which can facilitate marker-assisted breeding programs. Simi- Project team: Robert Devlin (DFO), Wendy Tymchuk (DFO), Ann and larly, application of microarray technology (large-scale John Heath (YIAL), Dan Heath (U Windsor), Willie Davidson (SFU), gene expression analysis) has large potential for its Dag Inge Vage (CiGene, Norway) ability to detect important genetic differences between For information contact: Robert Devlin ([email protected]) Mature red and white Chinook salmon (Photo: R. Devlin) strains of salmon with different phenotypic traits.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 9 FINFISH - salmon Efficacy of the APEX Novel recombinant vaccine vaccine is tested under models against Infectious severe conditions Salmon Anemia Virus (ISA)

Infectious hematopoiet- Infectious salmon anemia ic necrosis virus (IHNV) virus (ISAV) is an important is an aquatic rhabdovi- virus pathogen of salmonids rus that has had a dev- and causes mass mortalities. It astating effect on the remains a recurrent problem BC salmon aquaculture in Eastern Canada and Maine industry. In particular, since the initial epizootics of Atlantic salmon are 1996. highly susceptible to Recombinant vaccines are this endemic pathogen based on the expression of at all life stages. synthetic DNA constructs en- To minimize the ef- coding proteins from specific fects of IHNV, Novartis Efficacy of the APEX vaccine in Atlantic salmon subjected to an IHNV exposure simulating pathogens. Heat Shock Pro- Animal Health Canada natural and/or elevated field challenges teins (HSPs) are involved in Inc. has developed a protein conformation, chaper- highly efficacious IHNV oning, shuffling, etc. When- plasmid vaccine (APEX-IHN®) that is commercially available. ever a cell is stressed, HSPs are Laboratory tests of the vaccine have revealed the vaccine to produced. When cells rupture, provide significant protection against lethal virus challenge. such as during viral infec- The efficacy observed in the laboratory setting has warranted tions, HSP-peptide complexes Mélanie Roy (M.Sc candidate) preparing fish cells for plasmid transfection the use of the vaccine in the field, however due to the lack of a are released, and detected by (Photo: N. Gagné) natural field challenge it remains unclear as to the efficacy of specialized cells that present the vaccine in an environmental outbreak. the antigenic peptide at their HSPs. In this approach, we will Duration: Jul ‘07 – Mar ‘09 This project will evaluate the effectiveness of the APEX vac- surface, thus activating the transfect fish cell lines with Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: cine under conditions that are equal to, or more severe than, cytotoxic T cell response, as recombinant expression vec- NBSGA, DFO-GRDI a natural field challenge. This work is necessary for salmon part of an effective immune tors. Once recombinant ISAV Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), farmers to better evaluate husbandry and disease management response. proteins are produced in these Mark Laflamme (DFO), Mélanie Roy strategies. Researchers are taking a cells, necrosis (unplanned cell (MSc Student, U Moncton), Kira Salo- novel approach using recom- death) will be induced. Necro- nius (DFO), Nathalie Simard (DFO) Duration: Apr ‘07 – Oct ‘07 binant ISAV protein subunits sis conditions will be selected For information contact: Nellie Gagné combined in vivo to fish HSPs. such as to obtain the high- ([email protected]) Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Marine Harvest, Novartis Animal Health est level of HSPs production Canada Inc. Various studies have demon- strated that antigenic recom- before cell burst, and release Project team: Kyle Garver (DFO), Laura Hawley (DFO), Diane Morrison (Marine binant peptides are more of recombinant ISAV proteins Harvest Canada Inc.), Todd Cook (Novartis Animal Health Canada Inc.), Allison associated with HSPs. MacKinnon (Novartis Animal Health Canada Inc.) effective when combined with For information contact: Kyle Garver ([email protected]) ISA prevalence and sampling strategy Researchers identify in relation to genetic markers of the outbreak stage and immune response to ISA vaccination status Infectious diseases present a significant economic burden to finfish aquaculture industries In 2005, a series of salmon cages were initiated and there is concern that diseases in the New Brunswick aquaculture industry to may also negatively impact wild explore vaccine efficacy in a randomized clini- fish populations. Increasingly, cal field trial. In 2006, one of the study cages genomic tools are being used to experienced a severe ISAV episode caused by investigate diseases of fish and the HPR4 virulent strain. Preliminary results from these samples re- Hypothesized 3D Histogram of an ISAV outbreak. The their causative agents and are (Photo: F. Leblanc) frequency of infection is represented over time in function beginning to provide scientists, vealed that infected salmon are either highly or of the virus load (low values of PCR CT refer to high virus clinicians and regulators with management options. Despite lowly infected with very few intermediate stages load, in red, when low values of PCR CT values refer to this, very little is known about the diseases and pathogens detected. This unexpected observation led to low virus load, in black). High infected fish (in red) are a hypothetical three dimensional model of the assumed to match with clinical mortality, and low infected affecting Canadian finfish culture industries or adjacent fish are assumed to be apparently healthy fish. wild populations. disease dynamic during the outbreak. This proj- Infectious salmon anemia virus (ISAV) is an important ect is investigating the phenomena further. virus pathogen of salmonids and causes mass mortalities. It Firstly, the model is being refined by further remains a recurrent problem in Eastern Canada and Maine viral quantitative testing of this population. This is expected to provide a better comprehension of since the initial epizootics of 1996. the disease dynamic which in turn will lead to an optimized surveillance program. This study is taking a genomic approach to the disease Secondly, the outbreak cage contained 7 different groups of Atlantic salmon vaccinated using DNA microchips to better understand the short and against different fish diseases including 3 groups vaccinated against ISAV and 4 groups not vac- long term immune response of Atlantic salmon to ISAV cinated against ISAV. Utilizing survival analysis statistical techniques is allowing for the simultane- and to identify genetic markers of this response. Validation ous analysis of the prevalence and virus load distribution controlling for the vaccine group as well of these genetic markers in vivo will provide tools to study as other confounding factors. This kind of efficacy assessment, and the deeper understanding of disease and recovery from disease, resistance to clinical the protective effect of the ISAV vaccine, will directly benefit the salmon culture industry. disease, or response to vaccination. Duration: Feb ‘08 – Mar ‘09. Duration: Jul ‘07 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Cooke Aquaculture Inc. Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: New Brunswick Salmon Growers Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), Charles Caraguel (UPEI-AVC), Larry Hammell (UPEI-AVC), Carol McClure (UPEI-AVC), Association, DFO-GRDI Mike Beattie (NB Department of Agriculture and Aquaculture), Larry Ingalls ( Horizons Canada), Mike Szemerda Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), Mark Laflamme (DFO), Francis Leblanc (Cooke Aquaculture Inc.) (DFO), Kira Salonius (DFO), Nathalie Simard (DFO) For information contact: Nellie Gagné For information contact: Nellie Gagné ([email protected]) ([email protected])

10 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 FINFISH - salmon

Loading the qRT-PCR machine to begin a run Efficacy of the APEX

vaccine in Atlantic Sampling salmon cage with controlled photoperiod salmon subjected to Melatonin assay improves an IHNV exposure photoperiod regimes to reduce simulating natural grilsification Photoperiod plays a significant role in the devel- The project team is investigating the levels and/or elevated field opment and maturation of salmon. Alterations of melatonin observed in salmon under natural in the natural photoperiod can accelerate or lighting photoperiods in the Bay of Fundy challenges decelerate smoltification or reproductive matu- region and under manipulated photoperiods ration. By appropriately manipulating photope- through the use of artificial lighting. Mela- riod, spawning times can be controlled to allow tonin levels are correlated with grilse rates, fish The source of the infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus for the production of out-of-season smolts, and weight, water temperatures, family/stock origin (IHNV) introduction to farmed salmon is unknown, but epide- grilse rates can be reduced during grow out al- and light intensity measurements. The data miological investigations have identified sockeye salmon and lowing enhanced growth and greater insurance from these investigations should indicate the herring as likely sources. Due to the potential devastating effect of quality marketable product. effectiveness of the lighting regimes being used of IHNV on the economic sustainability of the BC salmon aqua- The way in which photoperiod is perceived in reducing melatonin levels and give insight culture industry, companies have developed biosecurity action by salmon and how signals are relayed to systems on how grilse rates might be further reduced. plans for viral containment in the event of another outbreak. which control sexual maturation is not clearly However, effectiveness of any containment plan depends on understood. But evidence suggests that mela- Duration: Jul ‘07 – Mar ‘09 rapid diagnosis tonin, produced by the pineal gland, may be a significant mediator of the photoperiod effects. Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Cooke Aquaculture of the index Inc. case. Therefore, In salmon, melatonin levels rise during dark rapid and accu- hours and drop during light hours. Since mela- Project team: Brian Glebe (DFO), Keng Pee Ang rate diagnosis of tonin levels appear to help communicate day/ (Cooke Aquaculture Inc.) IHNV is essential. night lengths to salmon, monitoring its levels For information contact: Brian Glebe The traditional would be an effective way to measure the effi- ([email protected]) method of diag- ciency and accuracy of artificial lighting systems nosing IHNV was in lengthening light hours in a 24 hour day. through recog- nizing necrosis of cells grown in tissue culture – a technique requir- How do different strains of ing between 5 and 21 days for ISAV affect fish in the field? confirmation of virus. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) is rapidly Different strains of Infectious salmon anemia virus (ISAV) are associated with different replacing more traditional methodologies as a diagnostic test. pathogenicity in the field and in the laboratory. The apparent, but poorly elucidated dis- QPCR offers many advantages over other diagnostic techniques parity in virulence of ISAV strains confounds management decisions relating to infected including a fast turn-around time as well as reduced frequency fish. Laboratory studies show differences in mortality rates and onset, with some ISAV of false positives, increased sensitivity, low requirements for strains such as the HPR0 apparently posing little threat to the health of the fish, and tissue and high sample through-put. This technology can also strains such as the HPR4 posing considerable threat to infected fish. be employed in the detection of IHNV but must include an While laboratory studies provide useful information, they are rarely an accurate additional step owing to the fact that the genome of IHNV is representation of how the strains affect fish in the field. However field studies are often composed of single-stranded, negative-sense RNA. Therefore, hampered by incomplete data sets, and confounding factors such as variables between a reverse transcription step is required to convert genomic and sites and factors that can influence observed disease outside of the pathogen strain itself. messenger RNA (mRNA) to complementary DNA (cDNA). The In the present study, the industry is making available detailed mortality data for ISAV research team is working on developing this type of assay for the infected and uninfected fish for two year classes of fish. Analysis of this data and other detection of IHNV – a quantitative reverse transcription - qRT- confounding factors will allow elucidation of the impact of different ISAV strains on fish PCR assay. in the field, helping inform fish health decisions regarding depopulation or eradication and disease control, and leading to intelligent and economical disease management. Duration: Apr ‘07 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: BCSFA, BC CAHS Duration: Feb ‘08 – May ‘08 Project team: Kyle Garver (DFO), Valerie Funk (DFO), Zina Richmond Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Cooke Aquaculture Inc. (BC CAHS), Laura Hawley (DFO) Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), Rachael Ritchie (RPC). For information contact: Kyle Garver ([email protected]) For information contact: Nellie Gagné ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 11 FINFISH - salmon Use of genetic markers indicates family-level differences in coho growth performance

Family selection methods are powerful approach- es for improving the performance of agricultural species. Modern methods of analysis now en- able tracking parents and offspring to families using microsatellite and other molecular genetic marker based systems. Development of a suite of variable genetic markers therefore can signifi- cantly enhance breeding programs. This project is developing and applying these genetic markers to cultured coho salmon. Some of these variable markers have been mapped to chromosomal regions associated with loci (quantitative trait loci QTLs) controlling traits of interest which enhance performance in other species. Analysis of the genetic basis of Eggs subdivided for fertilization in breeding program growth in coho salmon and rainbow trout show that this trait is largely controlled by additive genetic variance, making it likely that controls of growth rate will be found in these two species using family analyses of phenotypic variation and molecular genetics. Recent research has shown that QTL marker loci identified in one salmonid species are often associated with control of the same trait in other Salmon cages- Spyglass II salmonids. The team is developing markers asso- ciated with QTLs originally developed de novo in rainbow trout, Arctic char and Atlantic salmon, and applying them to coho salmon production Monitoring in Fortune populations to assess whether family-level differ- ences in performance exist, and to assess wheth- Coho in polyculture with wasabi er specific markers are associated with growth Bay assesses the risk of performance. Aquaculture broodstock can become bottle- hypoxia in Atlantic salmon necked due to a lack of novel genetic material being introduced over a period of several gen- erations. Researchers in this project have intro- Aquaculture is expanding rapidly in Fortune Bay and specific duced new genetic variation from wild strains sites have experienced low dissolved oxygen in the past. Real into a domesticated coho salmon stock, and are time biological and environmental monitoring of the area is vi- currently assessing the effects on growth perfor- tally important. Water currents, oxygen, temperature, and salin- mance under aquaculture conditions. Genetic ity are being monitored at sites where low dissolved oxygen has marker-based determination of families within been observed as well as sites that have not seen such events. this production population is being used for this In addition, Newfoundland weather produces significant analysis. environmental effects impacting fish. Determining stress levels and immune responses of cultured fish are essential tools for Coho in rearing tank improving productivity and fish health.In vitro and in vivo Duration: Nov ‘07 – Sep ‘10. experiments will be conducted on salmon to investigate health Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Tri-Gen Fish Improve- status of farmed fish under environmental stressors such as ment Ltd. hypoxia through evaluation of fish immunity and physiology Project team: Ruth Withler (DFO), Tri-Gen Fish Improvement using flow cytometry and real-time PCR. Laboratory trials are Ltd. being conducted at the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre. For information contact: Ruth Withler Field sampling of fish is being conducted in collaboration with ([email protected]) the industry partner to examine any physiological and/or im- munological changes in fish during episodes of hypoxia.

Duration: Apr ‘08 – Mar ‘10. Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Northern Harvest Sea Farms. Project team: Dounia Hamoutene (DFO), Gehan Mabrouk (DFO), Dwight Drover (DFO), Lynn Lush (DFO), Fred Page (DFO), Doug and Jennifer Caines (Northern Harvest Sea Farms) Coho fillets For information contact: Dounia Hamoutene ([email protected])

to the findings of this study. The intent is to use the Flesh quality of farmed salmon enhanced model developed from this study to predict contami- nant burden and fatty acid content in farmed salmon based on the composition of contaminants and lipid through diet formulation modelling profiles in the corresponding fish diets.

A multidisciplinary team of researchers with exper- PCDFs, PCBs, PBDEs, and 20 Organochlorine [OC] Duration: Jul ‘08 – Mar ‘10. tise in nutrition, contaminants, health and aquacul- pesticides) are measured in the flesh of a wide range ture science is developing a model to predict con- of farmed Atlantic salmon of all sizes fed three differ- Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Cooke Aquaculture Inc., taminant burden and fatty acid content in farmed ent composition diets. NRC. salmon based on the composition of contaminants Concurrently, the research team is examining the Project team: Michael G. Ikonomou (DFO), Keng Pee Ang (Cooke and lipid profiles in the corresponding fish diets. impact of the alternate feeds on the profiles of the Aquaculture Inc.), Santosh P. Lall (NRC IMB). Farmed salmon are fed alternate diets and con- omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids in the flesh of the For information contact: Michael Ikonomou taminant bioaccumulation is examined as a function target species. The bioaccumulation behaviour of the ([email protected]) of fish size, feeding practices and growth character- target contaminants and the profiles of the fatty acids istics. The levels of the target contaminants (PCDDs, are then modeled. The model is calibrated according

12 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 FINFISH - salmon

Researchers use DNA chips to uncover New Brunswick team immune response to ISAV isolates

developing novel Infectious salmon anemia virus (ISAV) af- fects salmon in Atlantic Canada. In earlier vaccine technologies research by the team, controlled challeng- es were conducted using an ISAV HPR2 A research group in New Brunswick is working on a truly (non-virulent) isolate and low levels of novel form of vaccine for salmonids. Farmed Atlantic fish mortality were observed. The team salmon are susceptible to a variety of pathogens from hypothesized that the surviving fish had bacterial or viral origins. To date, only a few commercial developed immunity against ISAV and vaccines are available, and of these, many have less than would resist exposure to virulent ISAV the desired efficacies. Many of these vaccines are based isolates. This hypothesis was supported by on attenuated or killed pathogens. More modern vac- a high survival rate of these fish follow- cines are based ing a re-challenge with an ISAV HPR4 on recombinant isolate (virulent type). Further work with DNA technolo- various rearing conditions and exposure gies. Such vaccines regiments is being done in this project to “pre-expose” the confirm these results. fish to non-virulent Although a variety of factors may be versions of the implicated, it seems the apparent vari- pathogen, with the ability in virulence between the various goal of boosting ISAV isolates is linked to the HPR type. the immune re- The viral mechanisms leading either to sponse if an actual fish death or survival and resistance are infection should not well understood at the immune or occur. molecular levels. In order to gain further This team, how- understanding of these mechanisms, the ever, is developing a novel form of vaccine based on the research team is using salmon DNA chips RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism. The mechanism to study the immune response and global works by transfecting fish cells with small RNA molecules. gene expression patterns in fish following These molecules act as guides that target and destroy exposure to either HPR2- or HPR4-type pathogenic mRNAs by using the fish’s RNAi system. The isolates of ISAV. fish RNAi system is active in natural populations of fish, The results of this project are expected be useful in many areas of fish health such as novel where it functions to regulate gene expression, and pro- vaccine development, the evaluation of isolate virulence, fish selection for resistance to disease, tect fish from certain infectious diseases. and others. Work in this project is focused on manipulating this system to specifically protect fish from pathogens that are Duration: Apr ‘08 – Mar ‘11 problematic to the salmon aquaculture industry. The proj- ect is initially developing a vaccine against the Infectious Funded by: DFO-GRDI. Salmon Anemia Virus, but the researchers believe this Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), Mark Laflamme (DFO), Brian Glebe (DFO) system can be easily adaptable to many other pathogens. For information contact: Nellie Gagné ([email protected])

Duration: Sep ‘08 – Apr ‘09 Funded by: DFO. Co-funded by: U Moncton. Project team: Mark Laflamme (DFO), Nellie Gagné (DFO), Chanel Losier (Undergraduate student, U Moncton) For information contact: Mark Laflamme ([email protected])

Airlift feed collector reduces feed loss and Aquaculture Engineering Group environmental impact establishes Nova Scotia operation to of salmon farming in demonstrate eco-friendly solutions

Newfoundland Aquaculture Engineering Group Inc. (AEG) strategies, possible only while using integrated Feed wastage from Atlantic salmon cage sites on the south cost is establishing a small finfish aquaculture AEG Solutions to enhance overall farm of Newfoundland can be costly and it is important to evaluate operation in St. Mary’s Bay, Nova Scotia to management and productivity, are being and reduce the economic and environmental impact. Investiga- demonstrate sustainable technologies for refined. tors in this project are determining the amount of actual feed salmon farming. The company plans to raise Aquaculture Engineering Group Inc. was wasted at different feeding times and the pattern of such wast- Atlantic salmon on the site through the early incorporated in November 2002 to develop age during each meal. They are also examining the nutritional smolt stage of a grow-out cycle (60-300 g). equipment and management solutions losses of the wasted pellets and their disintegration pattern. AEG is developing and demonstrating a that address current industry technology A trial to evaluate the efficacy of using an airlift feed collector number of its advanced solutions through this shortcomings. to collect and re-suspend the uneaten pellets back to the cages is project. The AEG Feeder provides stock with being conducted. The effect of this technique on fish perform- pulse feeding capability compared with the Duration: Aug ‘08 – Dec ‘10 ance and feed conversion ratios is also being investigated. In meal feeding approach that is now standard in the industry. The AquaSonar technology and Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: NS DFA, ACOA, addition, the team is conducting an evaluation of the environ- NRC-IRAP, Skretting Canada, Marine Systems Interna- mental effects of the reduced feed wastage on the sea bed under the onboard AEG Feeder integrate the fish sizing tional. the cages. program to allow daily fish size updates from permanently mounted AquaSonar units. The Project team: Chris Bridger (AEG), Phillip Dobson (AEG), AEG site management software application Wade Landry (AEG), Dave Hoar (Motion Design), Skretting Duration: Jun ‘07 – Mar ‘09 Neptune is being applied to evaluate daily smolt Canada, Motion Design, Marine Systems International, Fu- ture Nets & Supplies, Aquatic Sensing Technologies Limited, Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Natures Sea Farms Inc. size data for superior feed management and Huntsman Marine Science Centre. Project team: Atef A.H. Mansour (DFO), Gehan Mabrouk (DFO), Elizabeth Barlow market planning. For information contact: Chris Bridger (NL DFA) A submersible HDPE collar is being ([email protected]) For information contact: Atef Mansour ([email protected]) developed for use with the innovative AEG Containment System. Logistics mitigation Website: http://www.aeg-solutions.com

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 13 FINFISH - salmon

Oceanographic study supports salmon production management in Newfoundland The province of Newfoundland is experiencing a significant in- flux of investment in salmonid farming. The increasing , the growing number of companies, the diversity of production strategies, and the concentration of farm sites, particularly in outer Bay d’Espoir, are challenging the management of biosecu- rity and sustainability of salmon farming on the south coast of Newfoundland. The lack of data and full understanding of the oceanography of the outer Bay d’Espoir area precludes establishment of scien- tifically validated production and management areas to guide site licensing, production planning, and sustainable manage- ment of the industry. The problem is particularly acute in this area because company production plans will result in overlap- ping year-classes in the area in 2009. This project is establishing the infrastructure and the foun- dation for Newfoundland to be able to carry out an oceanog- raphy program to collect and model the physical environmental data - currents, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and salinity – and map the environmental parameters and potential zones of influence that will be used to establish production management areas. Mike Anderson of New Zealand King Salmon looking into the microscope for activity of sperm after the milt was brought out of the cryopreserved state. (Photo: BC CAHS) Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-PARR ences (BC CAHS) is coordinating a project Project team: Gehan Mabrouk (DFO), Geoff Perry (DFO), Dave Senciall (DFO), BC project to import expertise in cryopreservation Fred Page (DFO), Peter J. Cranford (DFO), Dwight Drover (DFO), Randy Losier techniques from New Zealand King Salmon (DFO), Thomas Puestow (MUN C-CORE), Darrell Green (NAIA) implements new and transfer those techniques through staff For information contact: Gehan Mabrouk ([email protected]) and technician training and through pilot, commercial application. With a focus on cryopreservation sustainable farming practices, New Zealand King Salmon has built a reputation for one Rapid IHN detection technology for of the finest salmon stock breeding pro- grams in the world and uniquely avoids the aquaculture use of chemicals or vaccines in supporting technique piloted in the pristine advantages of its grow-out envi- Cryopreservation of milt or sperm from ronment in the Marlborough Sounds. BC project fish is a new technology in the aquaculture This project brings together BC salmon industry. This is in contrast to cattle breed- farming companies working through their In British Columbia, infec- ing where artificial insemination (AI) with membership with the BC Salmon Farmers tious hematopoietic necro- frozen semen has been essential for breed- Association (BCSFA). sis virus (IHNV) is the most ing progress since 1965. Today advances economically significant in technology have reached a level where Duration: Sep ‘08 – Nov ‘08 viral pathogen of salmonids. cryopreservation can be exploited commer- Since the introduction of cially. Cryopreservation of milt can increase Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: BCSFA and the number of offspring from genetically Member companies, New Zealand King Salmon, BC Atlantic salmon to the BC CAHS. coast in the mid 1980’s, superior males, and speed up the breed- there have been two serious ing process. For production of commercial Project team: Linda Sams (BC CAHS), BCSFA, outbreaks of IHN in farmed eggs, frozen milt increases the possibili- Michael David Anderson (New Zealand King Salmon), Karl James French (New Zealand King Salmon). Atlantic salmon. The esti- ties of varied production techniques and mated economic loss result- increased operational efficiencies. For information contact: Linda Sams ing from both combined The BC Centre for Aquatic Health Sci- ([email protected]) outbreaks was $40 million in inventory representing $200 million in lost sales. Due to the potential devastat- Hard seabed monitoring project progresses to ing effect of IHNV on the economic sustainability of the BC salmon aquaculture support new waste control regulations in BC industry, companies have Lab technician, Kristin Mulholland, In British Columbia many finfish aquacul- tional monitoring. Phase 2 reviewed marine developed biosecurity ac- pipetting with precision (photo by BC tion plans in the event of CAHS) ture operations are sited over hard seabed environmental video monitoring methods another outbreak. However, substrates, where conventional soft seabed and monitoring parameters, developed video the effectiveness of any such sampling techniques (sediment grabs and data interpretation and classification proto- plan depends on rapid diagnosis. cores) cannot be used to sample benthic cols, and conducted ROV field survey and The traditional method of diagnosing IHNV was through rec- communities. Most of these sites have higher classification trials. Phase 3 of this project ognizing necrosis of cells grown in tissue culture – a technique currents and little accumulation of natural involved working with stakeholders and regu- requiring between 5 and 21 days for confirmation of virus. sediments. Hard seabed biological communi- lators to amend the regulations. Quantitative PCR (QPCR) is rapidly replacing more traditional ties differ from soft seabed communities as methodologies as a diagnostic test. QPCR offers many advantag- they are dominated by attached or mobile Duration: Jan ‘04 – Oct ‘08 es over other diagnostic techniques including a fast turn-around epibenthic organisms rather than infaunal organisms. Funded by: BCARDC-AE Co-funded by: BCMoE, BC- time, increased sensitivity, and high sample through-put. The MAL, DFO BC Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences (BC CAHS) is piloting For hard seabeds the current Finfish the application of the rapid detection for salmon farms in BC. Aquaculture Waste Control Regulation Project team: Brian Emmett (Archipelago Marine Re- (FAWCR) lacks standard protocols for field search), Pam Thuringer (Archipelago Marine Research), Located in Campbell River, BC CAHS operates as a fourth Sarah Cook (Archipelago Marine Research), Jon Chamber- pillar organization bringing together industry, academics and survey data interpretation and analysis. In addition, performance standards (e.g., the lain (DFO), Jason Dunham (DFO), Barb Cannon (Creative government researchers to drive innovation. Salmon Ltd.), Dave Stirling (Mainstream Canada), Sha- level and type of community change deemed ron Dedominicis (Marine Harvest Canada), Mia Parker to be unacceptable) have not been defined. Duration: Jul ‘08 – Jan ‘09 (Grieg BC Ltd), Norm Penton (BCSFA), Bill A three-phase project, beginning in 2003, has Harrower (BCMAL), March Klaver (DFO), Kerra Hoyseth Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: BC Salmon Farming Industry. now concluded its third phase. (DFO) Bernie Taekema (BCMoE) Project team: Linda Sams (BC CAHS), Sonja Saksida (BC CAHS), Valerie Funk In Phase 1 video imagery was recom- For information contact: Brian Emmett (BC CAHS), Kevin G. Butterworth (UBC-CAER) mended as the most effective tool for opera- ([email protected]) For information contact: Linda Sams ([email protected])

14 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 FINFISH - salmon FINFISH - marine Researchers use amoebae to Halibut study pilots study furunculosis off-season grow-out in PEI Furunculosis is an infectious disease occurring particularly in farmed trout lobster holding facility and salmon. The disease is caused by the Aeromonas salmonicida bacteria. A growing number of strains of A. salmonicida are resistant to multiple antibiotics. This compromises the ability to overcome future infections caused by this bacterium. One solution to this problem involves the creation of compounds to complement the antibiotics The amoeba is used in evaluation of the bacteria’s and thus decrease the virulence. Each of the wells contains a different strain of infectious nature of the bacteria (black). Strains in which the amoeba cannot grow bacteria. Development of (no white areas) are virulent. (Photo: Laboratoire Charette) these anti-infection agents requires, as a first step, better understanding the virulent behaviour of the bacteria and thus finding molecular targets suitable for developing these anti-infection agents. Repeated confrontations between bacteria and host are necessary for this kind of study. For ethical, economic and practical reasons, it is difficult to do this while using the living fish as the host. Here, the research team is studying the virulence of A. salmonicida using a substitute host, the amoeba Dictyostelium Some of the halibut were transferred into one of the large existing lobster-holding tanks on the discoideum. The objective is to define the infectious nature ofA. salmonicida and island, while other smaller fish were put into fibreglass tanks (bottom) specially installed for the propose new approaches to treat infections caused by this bacterium. purpose. An eight-month initiative is Duration: Mar ‘08 – ongoing looking to fast-track a new Funded by: U Laval. Co-funded by: RAQ, AUCC halibut production industry Project team: Steve Charette (U Laval), Rana Daher (M.Sc. Student, U Laval), Geneviève Filion (U on PEI. Through a joint Laval), Michael Reith (NRC-IMB) effort between DFO-AIMAP, For information contact: Steve Charette ([email protected]) PEI’s Department of Fisher- ies, Aquaculture and Rural Website: www.amibe.org Development (PEIDFARD) and several private firms, Halibut PEI aims to deter- mine the feasibility of using off-season lobster-holding facilities for grow-out of At- lantic Halibut fingerlings. Currently, several PEI lobster holding facilities with access to salt water wells stand unused for up to nine months of the year. Propo- nents of the initiative believe that land-based grow-out of the valuable fish could comprise a new and profit- able way to keep existing infrastructure in full use and staff employed through- out the year. Stable water Researchers prepare a seine net along the shores of Discovery Passage (Photo: BC CAHS) conditions and minimal renovation expense mean The research grant of $160,000 that a new industry could be underway from DFO’s Aquaculture Innovation Juvenile coho monitoring project without delay, once it has been demon- and Market Access Program (AIMAP) strated that the facilities can produce was part of DFO’s overall $23.5 million A collaborative research partnership global climate change. high-quality, market-sized fish in one commitment to industry R&D over the is monitoring phytoplankton and Researchers are analyzing plank- 8-month growing season. next five years. The DFO funding was zooplankton levels in the Northern ton levels in the stomach contents of The study is currently underway augmented by $40,600 from the PEI Georgia Strait to determine optimal captured coho. They will use this data at MorningStar Fisheries, a lobster Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture release dates for the improved sur- to adapt the timing of release such holding facility in Victoria, PEI owned and Rural Development and a total of vival of juvenile, enhanced coho. The that the juvenile fish enter by Ocean Choice International Ltd. $127, 000 from the participating firms collaboration is being facilitated by when food is at maximum availability. Fingerlings were provided by Scotian that also included Waterline Ltd. and the BC Centre for Aquatic Health Sci- The development of this project will Halibut from their Clark’s Harbour Viodiaq Inc. ences (BC CAHS) in partnership with lead to a long-term monitoring pro- Hatchery in Nova Scotia. The research the BC Ministry of Environment (BC gram that will help guide the release team includes Project Manager Jim Duration: July ‘08 – Apr ‘09 MOE) – Marine Division, DFO Quin- time of enhanced coho in this area. Dunphy of J. Dunphy Inc., fisher- sam Hatchery, A-Tlegay Fisheries, The full report is available on the BC ies and aquaculture consultant Bob Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: Halibut Ritchie Foundation, Campbell River CAHS website Johnston, and Dr. Gerald Johnson of PEI, Scotian Halibut, Ocean Choice Inter- Foundation, Campbell River Lodge, the UPEI Atlantic Veterinary Col- national, Waterline Ltd, Viodiaq Inc., UPEI-AVC, and the City of Campbell River. J Dunphy Inc., Robert Johnston Consulting, PEI Duration: Jan ‘07 – Oct ‘07 lege in Charlottetown. Jim Dunphy is DFA R D At the Quinsam Hatchery, as confident that a new industry is on the well as other hatcheries on the BC Funded by and Project team: BC CAHS, BC Project team: Jim Dunphy (J Dunphy Inc.), Bob MOE – Marine Division, DFO Quinsam Hatch- horizon: “We are committed to sharing coast, survival of enhanced coho has the results of our project with other Johnston (Robert Johnston Consulting), Gerald ery, A-Tlegay Fisheries, Ritchie Foundation, Johnson (UPEI-AVC), Brian Blanchard (Scotian dropped from highs of 8-10% in the Campbell River Foundation, Campbell River investors who may be interested in es- 1980’s to less than 1% today. Many Halibut), Melissa Rommens (Scotian Halibut), Lodge, City of Campbell River tablishing halibut grow-out operations Wayne Van Toever (Waterline Ltd.), David Speare factors are contributing to this de- in their facilities. This could create a (UPEI-AVC), Ocean Choice International cline including changes in magnitude For information contact: Linda Sams ([email protected]) new aquaculture industry in PEI as and timing of ocean productivity (i.e., well as creating full time jobs in plants For information contact: Jim Dunphy (902-892-0953) plankton blooms) likely related to Website: http://www.cahs-bc.ca where employment has been seasonal up to this time.”

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 15 FINFISH - marine

Above: Implanting rockfish with visible implant tags (Northwest Technologies) to identify and monitor individual growth performance during study. (Photo: S. Balfry)

Left: Juvenile rockfish in tanks at the Centre for Juvenile cod in respirometer (Photo: D. Chabot) Aquaculture and Environmental Research for growth performance study. (Photo: S.Balfry) Juvenile Atlantic cod diets Research begins on culturing improved by using herring by-product juvenile copper rockfish in BC Canadian researchers have already developed initial feed formulations for juvenile and broodstock marine fish, but Identifying, in a controlled and scientific manner, provided to assist in the development of health further research is still needed to optimize growth and the impact of selected factors such as tempera- management plans to facilitate in the regula- health of cultured juvenile marine fish in general, and of ture, size, and sex, on the growth performance tion of this new aquaculture industry. Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in particular. Furthermore, of cultured copper rockfish(Sebastes caurinus) recent work suggested that including tissue from gonads of male herring in feed was of interest for two reasons: it can is underway at the DFO - University of British Duration: Jan ‘08 – Oct ‘09 Columbia’s Centre for Aquaculture and Environ- increase growth and performance of the immune system mental Research. This initial research is providing Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Ko-Un Fish Com- and it solves the problem of disposing of this fishery by- pany the information on the biology of cultured cop- product in an environmentally sound manner. per rockfish so that it can be readily transferred to Project team: Shannon Balfry (UBC), Steve Macdonald The research team at the DFO Institut Maurice-Lam- industry wanting to develop this new species for (DFO), Jeff Marliave ( Aquarium), Scott McKinley ontagne are further improving existing feed formulations aquaculture in British Columbia. (UBC), Phil Konken (Ko-Un Fish Company). by testing the impact of three levels of male herring gonad In addition to gaining an understanding For information contact: Shannon Balfry contents and three levels arachidonic acid (ARA) supple- of these factors, information on health and ([email protected]) mentations on growth rate of juvenile cod. Fish are grown welfare parameters on this new species will be on a selection of these diets and respiratory capacity is measured to relate differences in growth to metabolic costs and assimilation. Furthermore, tolerance to hypoxia is being measured for cod fed the same diets. In addition to checking for the impact of diet on hypoxia tolerance, this work provides precious information to predict how long cod can survive when oxygen is not supplied to a tank, according to the number and size of fish and the tank volume.

Duration: Jan ‘07 – May ‘09 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Cooke Aquaculture Inc. Project team: Denis Chabot (DFO), Sébastien Plante (DFO). For information contact: [email protected] (Photo: M. Rise) Long term project continues Project improves broodstock and creates development and optimization of genomics tools for an Atlantic cod industry larviculture techniques The $18.1 million Atlantic Cod Genomics and Finally, the Genomics-Related Ethical, Eco- The marine fish research and development team was formed in Broodstock Development Project (CGP) aims nomic, Environmental, Legal and Social issues 1994 to develop a viable alternative to salmon aquaculture in the to develop a breeding program and a set of (GE3LS) team is developing solution-oriented Bay of Fundy. Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) was the first fundamental genomics tools that will be used legal and policy options regarding: ownership species targeted. Connors Brothers Ltd. joined the project in to supply the developing Atlantic cod aquacul- of commercially valuable research results, the 1996, leading to the transfer of the first fish to sea in 1997. The ture industry in Canada with improved brood- status of elite cod broodstock under Canadian first phase of research and development focused on the develop- stock. Family-based breeding programs have environmental law and Canada’s international ment of rearing techniques and feeding strategies. been initiated in Newfoundland, Labrador, obligations, and options regarding benefit shar- In 2003, industry interest shifted from haddock to Atlantic New Brunswick and New Hampshire ensuring ing and improved methods of consultation with cod. To support the viable development of an alternative spe- that local stocks can be used for the benefit of the affected publics. cies, the team transferred its field of research to this new species industry partners. CGP data suggest that the and, at the same time, entered the second phase of research and breeding programs will be highly successful at Duration: Jan ‘06 – Dec ‘09 development, which involved optimizing the techniques and improving growth rates of cod for aquaculture. reducing operating costs to achieve viability. CGP has dramatically improved the avail- Co-funded by: TAGC, Genome Canada, Hunstman Marine The Coastal Zones Research Institute (CZRI) is currently Science Centre, ACOA-AIF, NL-DFA, DFO-ACRDP, DFO ability of genomic resources for this species. (SABS, NAFC), NRC-IMB, NB Innovation Foundation, the working with Cooke Aquaculture Inc. on automating and opti- At present, 85.8% of publicly available DNA Provinces of NB, NL, and NS, MUN-OSC, UBC, U Guelph, mizing live feed production and on the various steps of Atlantic sequence information for cod was contributed UNB, Cooke Aquaculture Inc., GreatBay Aquaculture, New- cod larviculture. The team recently completed testing on a by the CGP. Thousands of cod genomic mark- foundland Cod Broodstock Company, NAIA, Northern Cod high-density rotifer production system applicable to Atlantic cod ers have been identified, and a microarray or Ventures, RPC farming. The use of such a system is a world first for marine fish “cod chip” is in production. Other character- Project team: Sharen Bowman (Genome Atlantic), Ed Trippel farming. istics including tolerance to stress and disease (DFO), Keith Culver (DFO), A. Kurt Gamperl (MUN-OSC), Duration: 1994 – Ongoing are also being assessed in juvenile cod. A cod Stewart Johnson (DFO), Matthew L. Rise (MUN-OSC), Andy genetic map is in development, and will be Robinson Funded by: NBDAA used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) For information contact: Sharen Bowman Project team: Rémy Haché (CZRI), Yves Hébert (CZRI), Claude Landry (CZRI), and to develop markers applicable in Marker ([email protected]) or Ed Trippel Caroline Roussel (CZRI), Cooke Aquaculture, NBDAA, U Moncton Shippigan Assisted Selection (MAS). MAS will enable ([email protected]) Campus rapid enhancement of cod broodstock. Website: www.codgene.ca For information contact: Rémy Haché ([email protected])

16 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 FINFISH - marine

Cod broodstock research in Research reveals how Newfoundland takes critical step photoperiod affects growth toward formulated feeds and sexual maturation in juvenile cod Knowledge of broodstock nutrition for Altan- Gadid broodstock diets have recently been tic cod is greatly limited due to factors such developed by feed companies world wide. So Light control in aquaculture has been used to increase as difficulty accessing proper broodstock and far, comprehensive comparisons between cur- growth and influence sexual maturation. However, long lack of sufficient tank space. Previous work on rent standard feeding practices and newly avail- light periods advance maturation at the cost of muscle cod broodstock in Atlantic Canada has been able diets have not been performed. This proj- production. In addition, growth of significantly fattier livers performed, utilizing a diet of baitfish (herring, ect is investigating the effect of these diets on in fish under extended photoperiods significantly reduces mackerel, squid) and vitamin supplementation, fish condition, gamete quality, egg fertilization, commercial productivity. To improve growth and to be able with good success. However, a wild baitfish diet larval performance, post-spawning condition to efficiently control environmental interactions, it is neces- has numerous drawbacks including inconsis- and the ability of fish to recrudesce properly. sary to understand the mechanisms through which these tent supply and quality of product, as well as processes operate and how storage of energy sources (i.e., potential introduction of diseases. Duration: Apr ‘08 – Mar ‘11 fats) may be affected. Preliminary studies in Newfoundland in This project, underway at the DFO St. Andrews Biologi- 2004 using formulated experimental diets Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Northern Cod Ven- tures, Genome Canada. cal Station, is examining how differences in light period did not lead to positive results. However, as change patterns of protein production (i.e., muscle broodstock development moves towards us- Project team: Dounia Hamoutene (DFO), Lynn Lush (DFO), growth) as well as lipid metabolism, energy storage, and ing F1-generated captive broodfish and away Jonathan Moir (Northern Cod Ventures Ltd.), Danny Boyce (MUN) sexual maturation. from wild-caught fish, the need for the use of Research already completed has focused on growth a formulated manufactured diet is paramount. For information contact: Dounia Hamoutene and the protein content of tissues. Twenty-four hour light F1-broodfish are never fed a baitfish diet and ([email protected]) produced significant increases in growth (i.e., length, body are reared on formulated feeds from weaning. and liver mass) and protein content that lasted throughout the experiment. Protein found in the blood did not vary between different light periods although it did increase with fish size. Increased muscle protein content under 24-h light may indicate changes in the controls for protein manufacture. Follow-up work continues on the mechanisms respon- sible for the decline in protein per unit muscle produced.

Duration: Dec ‘06 – Dec ‘09 Funded by: DFO Project team: D. John Martell (DFO), Les Burridge (DFO), Steve Leadbeater (DFO), Tammy Blair (DFO) For information contact: John Martell ([email protected])

International workshop probes cod gyrodactylosis An international workshop on cod gyrodactylosis was held September 21-23, 2008 in St. Andrews, NB, at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre and the DFO biological station. Ex- perts from Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Scotland, and Canada discussed the emergence of this disease in captive cod in the Cod broodstock held at the Ocean Sciences Centre North Atlantic and an application for a strategic grant (to NSERC) was developed and submitted. The project involves four main components. The first is the identification of the species involved (7 known to date) using both morphometric and molecular data. The second is the determination of the transmission dynamics of each spe- cies to allow development of prophylactic measures. Third is the development of environmentally-friendly treatments (e.g., avoiding the use of formalin baths which are not only toxic to the environment, but also render the fish more susceptible to further infection). The fourth component involves identifica- tion of those captive stocks which show increased resistance to infection and hence would be more useful to the aquaculture industry. Proceedings of the Workshop are now in press and copies can be obtained from [email protected].

Duration: May ‘09 – Apr ‘12 Funded by: NSERC Project team: M.D.B.Burt (UNB), Scott R. Gilmore (DFO), Russell H. Easy (Dalhousie U), Stanley K. King (SMU), Tor-Atle Mo (NVI Norway), Kjetil Olstad (NVI Norway), Haakon Hansen (NVI Norway), Willy Hemmingsen (U Tromso, Norway),Ken MacKenzie (U Aberdeen, Scotland), Catherine Collins (Fisheries Re- search Services, Scotland), Kurt Buchmann (U Copenhagen, Denmark), Matthias Eydal (U Iceland). For information contact: David Cone ([email protected])

Cod stripping

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 17 POLYCULTURE Integrated aquaculture systems to be tested on commercial scale at BC site

Is it possible to rear commercial quan- According to Cross, preliminary tities of several marketable results strongly indicate that sea on fish waste and sunshine within a cucumbers will utilize waste deposits full-scale finfish net pen operation? If below fish pens as a food source, and the “devil is in the details”, work now do not appear to accumulate heavy underway in BC is answering some of metals or other trace contaminants. the crucial questions around commer- Sea cage modifications developed cial scale development of Integrated during the study will facilitate simul- Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) taneous culture of more than one systems, or what team leader Dr. Steve type of shellfish (e.g., mussels near Cross of Kyuquot SEAFoods Ltd. calls the surface, scallops at depths up to Sustainable Ecological Aquaculture 15 m.). Timing of kelp seedling de- (SEA). velopment can be controlled to allow Over the past two years a study year-round seeding and harvest. funded by DFO’s Aquaculture Col- A site in Kyuquot Sound, on the laborative Research and Development West Coast of Vancouver Island, Program (ACRDP) has been inves- will be the proving ground for both tigating the feasibility of a full-scale to Cross, will determine critical details of the system’s equipment and grow-out protocols sablefish/ sea cucumber/ sea urchin/ shellfish/ kelp design and operation, and allow SEA systems to be based in part on the results of this work, and will operation, with a focus on three seminal questions: more adaptable. act as an ongoing test site for future research and 1) Can sea cucumbers effectively use the settled With a grant from DFO-ACRDP, and co-funding development. It is the first multi-trophic SEA site to waste below net pens, via an infrastructure that is from Kyuquot Seafoods Ltd. of Courtney, BC, Dr. be approved in BC. Other IMTA sites exist in New functionally independent from the finfish opera- Steve Cross, and Drs. Chris Pearce and Lucy Hannah Brunswick on the East Coast. tion? 2) Can modifications be made to steel cages to of DFO are concluding preliminary studies on sea accommodate more range of depth for shellfish than cucumbers. They have engineered and built a pro- Duration: Apr ‘07 – Jun ‘09 is possible with traditional wooden rafts? 3) Can kelp totype movable tramway system to service shellfish Funded by DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Kyuquot SEAFoods Ltd. seed be set throughout the year to ensure consis- lines suspended within fish cage superstructures, and tent, adequate interception of dissolved nutrients Project team: Steven Cross (Kyuquot SEAFoods Ltd. and U Vic), designed and tested submergible culture trays that Chris Pearce (DFO), Lucy Hannah (U Vic), Nathan Blasco (U Vic). and continuous, commercially viable production? can be positioned beneath net pens, and operated Answers from these lines of investigation, according without interfering with the pens. For information contact: Steve Cross ([email protected]).

IMTA project investigates adding polychaete worms as additional biofilter IMTA study finds

The Canadian aquaculture salmon farm by-product industry is striving to become more sustainable and envi- particulates affect ronmentally benign. The underlying principle behind the Integrated Multi-Trophic biophysical properties Aquaculture (IMTA) concept is one of re-cycling nutrients for of faeces more profitability and sustain- ability. In essence, the IMTA Mussels cultured under Integrated Multi-Trophic Aqua- practice combines, in the right culture (IMTA) techniques are supplemented with pulses proportions, the cultivation of of salmon farm particulate nutrients. The effect of these fed aquaculture species (e.g., particles on the biophysical properties of mussel biode- finfish) with organic extractive posits is unknown and is essential information for model- aquaculture species (e.g., filter ling nutrient dynamics of IMTA systems. feeders, deposit feeders) and Researchers in this project are characterizing the inorganic extractive aquacul- effect of various diets (mix algal paste, diatoms paste, ture species (e.g., seaweed). salmon feed ‘fines’ and salmon faeces) on the biophysical While recent research properties (faecal morphometrics, organic content and shows that mussels are effec- Particulate engineer, Darren Cleaves, working on some of the flow density) of mussel faeces produced. tively filtering the fine organic characteristics of organic particles in the lab and how they may be possibly All diets in the experiments were fed to three mussel particulates coming from the captured by a cage for polychaete worms. size classes (small: 30 – 35 mm, medium: 50 – 55 mm, salmon site, the majority of the or decomposers before it reaches the sea bot- and large 70 – 75 mm). The team found that differences organic loads settling to the bottom are too tom; preferably one that also has a commercial in faecal deposit characteristics are minimal within small large for mussels to physically handle. There- value. One group of organisms that would fit mussel sizes, but become more significant as mussel fore, the waste energy coming from the salmon the detritivore criteria for finfish aquaculture is lengths increase (50 mm to 75 mm). Absorption efficien- faeces needs to be recycled through detritivores the polychaetes. cies of mix algal, diatom, salmon feed and salmon faces, This study evaluated the feasibility of using were 87, 81, 90, and 86% (all significantly different, p < polychaete worms (Nereis virens) in an IMTA 0.05), respectively. Regardless of diet, small mussels pro- operation with salmon. Lab study showed that duced biodeposits that dispersed over larger areas than the worms could be grown successfully on a those produced by larger mussels as a function of sinking velocity: small 0.18 cm sec-1, medium 0.29 cm sec-1 and diet composed of salmon food/feces. However, -1 field trials indicated that production was lower large 0.54 cm sec (sinking velocity of 50 % of particles). than expected. Prototype culture containers were developed during the project. Duration: Oct ‘07 – Feb ‘09 Funded by: ACOA-AIF Co-funded by: DFO Duration: Jul ‘07 – Mar ‘09 Project team: Matthew Liutkus (DFO), Shawn Robinson (DFO), Bruce Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: MacDonald (DFO), Gregor Reid (DFO), Cooke Aquaculture Inc. Cooke Aquaculture Inc. For information contact: Matthew Liutkus Project team: Shawn Robinson (DFO), Rachel Shaw (DFO), ([email protected]) Fernando Salazar (DFO), Craig Smith (DFO), Jim Martin (DFO), Terralynn Lander (DFO), Cooke Aquaculture Inc. The sand worm, Nereis virens, in a white plastic dish in For information contact: Shawn Robinson the lab. The species is being examined as one of potential ([email protected]) organic biofilters from the detritivore trophic level.

18 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 POLYCULTURE

Study to shed light on effects of organic enrichment by salmon in IMTA systems The flow of nutrients from salmon farms These species, representing different and their effects on the growth and re- functional groups and trophic levels within productive physiology of species within the organic extractive niche of the IMTA the localized farm ecosystem is not clearly farm, provide insight into the effects of understood. This project aims to better un- organic enrichment on secondary produc- derstand these pathways and effects within tion and trophic energy transfer efficiencies. Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture Such research is essential for calculating (IMTA) farms in Southeast New Brunswick. the nutrient recovery potential of IMTA Mytilus edulis, Strongylocentrotus droebachien- candidate species. Ultimately this research sis and Caprella mutica - representing filter improves our understanding of energy flow feeding molluscs, scavenging echinoderms and effects within IMTA sites and coastal Experimental exposure trials at Memorial University (Ocean Sciences Centre) and opportunistic crustaceans, respectively - ecosystems. (Photo: A. Both) have been selected to investigate the contri- butions to the pathways of effects. Duration: May ‘07 – May ‘10 The assimilation of salmon farm waste Newfoundland project by these species is being investigated over Funded by: ACOA-AIF a one year period using stable isotope and Project team: Jason Mullen (DFO), Shawn Robinson investigates mussels to fatty acid tracers. The effect of this diet on (DFO), Bruce MacDonald (DFO), Gregor Reid (DFO), growth and reproduction is then measured Cooke Aquaculture Inc. by calculating differences in growth and For information contact: Jason Mullen mitigate some impacts reproductive output of animals held within ([email protected]) and outside of the nutrient plume of three of cod aquaculture salmon farms. Newfoundland researchers are investigating the feasibility of cul- turing mussels, Mytilus edulis, as a component in a cod Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system. They are evaluating Researchers incorporate sea the effluent leaving an onshore Atlantic cod aquaculture site as a food source for mussels. Experiments are being undertaken to measure changes in urchins into IMTA system the biochemical composition of mussels fed effluent in com- parison with starved mussels and mussels fed algae over a ten Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) urchin, has been observed. week period. The growth of mussels fed cod effluent is also is proving to be successful in the Bay of Fundy Using the growth rings found in the rotules, being measured over a six month period and compared to that with salmon, mussels, and kelp as the initial researchers are comparing animals from dif- of starved mussels and algae fed mussels. Some smaller experi- bio-extractive components. Currently, several ferent sites to evaluate the hypothesis that sea ments on individuals will be undertaken to determine the ability detritivores species are being considered for urchins around the aquaculture sites experi- and extent to which M. edulis can filter cod effluent out of sur- incorporation into the IMTA system in order to ence higher growth rates than conspecifics in rounding waters. further improve the level of nutrient recycling nearby natural areas. This project is part of a Some preliminary analyses are revealing that the bulk of the in an open marine environment for finfish larger initiative looking at the degree to which effluent leaving cod tanks (96%) is of a size larger then 500 µm aquaculture. aquaculture sites impact the relative growth which is too large for mussels to ingest, with a small portion The green sea urchin appears to be a rates of organisms away from the site. (1.8%) being smaller then 70 µm and of a size suitable for mus- promising candidate because of its relatively sel ingestion. Preliminary settlement rate experiments are show- high economic value and ability to ingest larger Duration: Dec ‘08 – Mar ‘09 organic particles descending from finfish cages. ing that although the smaller particles comprise a small portion Funded by: DFO of the effluent they are the particles with the greatest capacity to They are often found around salmon aquacul- spread over large areas. ture sites. Project team: Shawn Robinson (DFO), Andrew Cooper (DFO), This project is evaluating the potential rela- Janelle Arsenault (DFO), Carissa Graydon (DFO), Jacquelyn Duration: Feb ‘08 – Feb ‘10 tive growth performance of sea urchins from Ferris (DFO), Jim Martin (DFO), Terralynn Lander(DFO), Craig Smith (DFO) Funded by: NSERC Co-funded by: DFO aquaculture sites compared to nearby reference areas. A relationship between the test diameter For information contact: Shawn Robinson Project team: Chris Parrish (MUN), Adrianus Both (MUN), Randy Penney (DFO), and the length of the rotules found in Aris- ([email protected]) Ray Thompson (MUN) totle’s lantern, the chewing organ of the sea For information contact: Chris Parrish ([email protected]) IMTA group examines recycling of aquaculture nets for the collection of mussel seed In order to successfully implement mussels Although PT panels collected fewer spat than as a full commercial crop in the Integrated UT panels, the numbers were still adequate for Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system, a commercial spat collection. Mean shell length consistent collection source for juveniles (‘spat’ (MSL) was not significantly different between or ‘seed’) must be identified. Researchers have treatments. been examining the potential for reusing old Based on these results, the research team salmon nets previously treated with cuprous believes there is potential for recycling used oxide for mussel spat collection in the Bay of salmon nets for mussel collection as PT panels Fundy. continued to collect large numbers of mussel The settlement density and shell length of spat while inhibiting unwanted foulers with blue mussels was measured on newly treated lingering anti-foulant properties. (NT), previously treated (PT) and untreated (UT) collector panels, made from commercial Duration: Jun ‘07 – Dec ‘07 salmon nets, to assess how mussel spat col- lection efficiency was affected by commercial Funded by: DFO cuprous oxide treatment. Project team: Shawn Robinson (DFO), Rachel Shaw (DFO), Significant differences were found between Terralynn Lander (DFO), Jim Martin (DFO), Cooke Aquacul- treatments for mean spat density (MSD) after ture Inc. Juvenile mussels that have settled on used salmon nets that will be shortly harvested and re-deployed in socks hung on IMTA mussel rafts (Photo by S. a 5 months. Reduced settlement on NT and For information contact: Shawn Robinson Robinson) PT panels was attributed to the inhibitory ef- ([email protected]) fects of cuprous oxide on mussel settlement.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 19 POLYCULTURE SEA LICE Might sea lice be a vector Research suggests new for other pathogens? benefit of IMTA in pathogen The potential role of sea lice in a vector-pathogen association affecting farmed salmon has not been explored. Using standard OIE bacteriological depletion by mussels screening protocols, a Vancouver Island University researcher and his stu- dents sampled the external carapace and internal stomach contents of motile sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis, Caligus clemensi) collected from farmed Atlan- One of the methods currently being considered in the evolution of tic salmon from May 2007 to April 2008 in British Columbia. is a practice known as Integrated Multi-Trophic The results of this pilot study include the first isolation of three potentially Aquaculture (IMTA). When different organisms are combined, either pathogenic bacteria (Tenacibaculum maritimum, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Vibrio intentionally or unintentionally, the possibility exists for biological inter- spp.) from sea lice and their corresponding healthy salmon hosts. Spatiotem- actions to occur. poral variation among prevalence of bacteria was evident from external (58- In commercial aquaculture situations, negative interactions could be 100%) and internal (12.5-100%) sea lice samples. There was also an increase expressed in the form of disease transfer or parasites and this has been in prevalence of bacteria cultured from lice collected from higher seawater the concern of several countries in adoption of IMTA principles. temperatures and age of lice (90-100% among adult lice compared to < 40% However, studies are beginning to emerge that suggest mussels may among pre-adult). have the ability to destroy the ISA virus. IMTA researchers are determin- These preliminary results have lead to an NSERC proposal to conduct a ing the ability of mussels to affect the occurrence and titre levels of vari- comprehensive, long-term study in which this team intends to explore, within ous fish pathogens in their environment. an ecological context, the role of sea lice as vectors of pathogens to salmon. The results from this experiment suggest that mussels are effective at Where (geographically) and when (seasonally), could sea lice carry important depleting the ISAV and the IPNV viral types. However, they are not as ef- pathogens of salmon? A further question to explore is can sea lice be used as fective on Nodavirus suggesting different mechanisms are involved. indicators of pathogens in an environment? Mussels do not seem to deplete BKD or furunculosis bacteria in the water column in the same fashion as viruses. Although there are trace Duration: May ‘07 – May ‘08 amounts of bacteria remaining, it is not clear whether these are able to be released back into the environment. More work is going to be done Funded by: VIU. Co-funded on these mechanisms. by: Marine Harvest Canada, BCMAL. Project team: Duane Barker Duration: Aug ‘07 – Mar ‘08 (VIU), Laura Braden (VIU), Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Cooke Aquaculture Inc., RPC Mark Sheppard (BCMAL), Maria Project team: Shawn Robinson (DFO), Rachael Ritchie (RPC), Ben Forward (RPC), Brian Coombs (BCMAL), Brad Boyce Glebe (DFO), Terralynn Lander (DFO), Wilfred Young-Lai (DFO) (Marine Harvest Canada) For information contact: Shawn Robinson ([email protected]) For information contact: Duane Barker ([email protected])

Sea lice bisected for bacterial sampling (photo: D. Barker)

Above: Mussels in white plastic bucket with viral titer added in the quarantine facility at the St. Andrews Biological Station Above: Duane Right: Titers of virus Barker & Laura to be placed in the Braden in experimental tanks bacteriology lab with mussels to determine the ability of the shellfish to remove virus from the water column

Bacteria colonies isolated from lice (photo: D. Barker)

20 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SEA LICE

Catching smolt: Crew spread purse seine net.

BC Pacific Salmon Forum: Summary of Interim Research Results Adding smolt to water column.

The BC Pacific Salmon Forum (BCPSF) is an in the model simulations were found to agree independent citizen body using science and relatively well with data collected from the field stakeholder dialogue to advance sustainable leading to the expectation that these models governance of BC Pacific salmon. Three may prove to be useful tools for investigating objectives were identified for a two year wild/farmed salmon interactions with sea lice research program focused primarily in the and examining farm management strategies in Broughton Archipelago: 1) To determine the future. whether salmon farms in the Broughton impact sea lice loads on wild salmon and if so how; 2) Stock origins To determine whether the survival of individual One of the difficulties in understanding wild fish is compromised due to increased lice salmon dynamics is a lack of knowledge loads; and 3) To determine if any reduced regarding the exact origins of a fish. survival of individual salmon has consequences Understanding the origins of each sample on salmon populations, and if so, are there assists scientists in determining migration management techniques that can be put in patterns and in identifying potential significant place to mitigate any risk to wild salmon? differences in infection patterns of different In 2008 the Forum provided funding to 15 stocks. It is well known that different stocks collaborative research projects that involved of organisms do not share identical genetic more than 35 scientists. A wealth of new makeup, some stocks may possess greater knowledge was gained in areas ranging from or poorer resistance to pathogens and this fish health and physiology, to oceanography, knowledge is useful in identifying stocks that host-parasite interactions and the biology of sea may be at greater risk of impact from infection. lice. While the research focused predominantly Micro-chemical analyses demonstrated on the Broughton Archipelago region, projects that it is possible to discriminate the natal were also undertaken in other regions along origins of pink and chum salmon sampled the BC coast, some still ongoing. The findings in the Broughton Archipelago based on from the 2008 research period built upon those otolith composition. Juvenile salmon rearing from earlier seasons and will assist scientists in in different stream systems are subjected to reaching a clearer understanding of ecosystem variations in water chemistry and these can interactions in the Broughton and potentially be traced by micro-analysis. Salmon of known beyond. The following provides a brief overview origin were correctly identified approximately of the preliminary findings from the 2008 field 85% of the time suggesting that this research season. could provide a useful analytical tool in the ongoing efforts to better understand Modeling movements salmon migration pathways in the Broughton Aquatic organisms are in intimate contact Archipelago. with the ecosystems in which they reside and scientists are only just beginning to scratch Marine monitoring the surface of the complex interactions There has been a great deal of debate between fish, parasites and pathogens, surrounding the dynamics of juvenile salmon and the environments they coexist in. The and associated sea lice. While the answers still environment plays a defining factor in the remain somewhat elusive, certain patterns outcomes of those interactions and a clearer are merging. Extensive sampling programs understanding of the mechanisms of transport by several different research groups, over 5 and exchange within the aquatic environment or more years, has demonstrated that there is vital to understanding to dynamics of salmon are significant shifts in both salmon and lice populations in our waters. populations, although these do not always Oceanographic circulation and sea lice appear to share a positive correlation. Total dispersion models have been developed for the catches of juvenile wild pink and chum were Broughton Archipelago and have been utilized high in 2003, but declined substantially for to simulate oceanographic conditions and lice both species in 2004. Although total catches concentrations for defined collection periods. and catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) remained Mike Sackville studies specimens under a microscope. Ocean currents, salinities and temperatures relatively constant for both species from 2004 to

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 21 SEA LICE

2008, the number of fish captured each year varied widely between sampling locations and between years. In 2008, a total of 622 sets were completed using beach seine and purse gear with sampling occurring over 8-10 days each month, near the end of March, April, May and June. In 2008 a total of 22,995 juvenile pink salmon and 9,394 juvenile wild chum salmon were captured, very similar to the number captured in 2007. It is generally considered that smaller fish are more susceptible to infestation by sea lice. In 2008, a large number of juvenile salmon were examined for sea lice. There were large variations in both incidence and severity of infection by L. salmonis on juvenile pink and chum salmon between years, and also between different locations within any particular year. The prevalence and abundance of L. salmonis on juvenile pink and chum salmon has continuously declined since 2004 although the explanations for this decline are not fully understood. The percent of lethally-infected pink salmon declined from approximately 1% in 2005 to zero in 2008. Lab studies have demonstrated that once fry reach approximately 0.7 g they are highly resistant to the effects of lice. A question that has yet to be clearly answered is where do the lice come from. Farmed salmon are not infected when they enter the saltwater pens This catch: mostly herring, few smolt. therefore, logically, the lice are of a natural source in the environment. Yet we have yet to clearly identify that reservoir. around these farms were heavily (~70%) infected fish at sea lice densities of 1 to 3 lice per fish. Sub- with chalimus stages of C. clemensi, an infection that lethal effects of 1 louse per fish on ionic balance occurred throughout the winter and continued and swimming performance were dependent on the after SLICE® was administered. The prevalence and size of the fish but significant effects occurred only intensity of the infection before and after treatment on fish with a body mass of <0.5 g. A higher density indicated that C. clemensi was being continually of lice (2 or 3 lice per fish) was required to trigger produced from a source other than the salmon sub-lethal effects on ionic balance and swimming farms. performance in larger fish (0.5 – 3.7 g). In all An important component of management is cases, sub-lethal effects were only detected when an understanding of the range and density of lice the life stage of the louse was at least chalimus 3-4. in the environment. In an attempt to quantify the Compared with the sub-lethal changes observed abundance and map the distribution of larval lice in for <0.5 g fish with 1 louse per fish, increasing lice the region, bi-weekly plankton tows were conducted density up to 3 lice per fish did not have an additive throughout the Broughton in 2007-2008. The sub-lethal effect for fish of any size. abundances of naupliar and copepodid stages of Interestingly, naturally infected fish appeared both Lepeophtheirus salmonis and Caligus clemensi were to be less sensitive to lice loads than did those fish low. L. salmonis were found to be most abundant near that were artificially infected under lab conditions. recently active fish farms whileC. clemensi showed Regardless, in all physiological studies mortality was little or no spatial association with fish farms, but minimal (<2%) among fish infected with sea lice may have been associated with herring aggregations. during tests that lasted up to 28 days. Additionally, there is evidence from more than one study, that Host-parasite interactions juvenile salmon may possess effective mechanisms That sea lice migrate towards the surface at night for shedding lice. and move deeper during the daylight hours has long been accepted. However, recent research suggests Fish health that this may be less clear than previously thought. Fish health is a complicated field and involves a When L. salmonis nauplii and copepodids were held great deal more than a simple host parasite interac- in a 10 m column suspended in the ocean there did tion. Fitness is impacted by early rearing, natural not appear to be a preference for any particular feed supplies, genetics, environmental conditions depth and there was no apparent effect of daytime etc. Many factors lead to the state we call disease, period on their vertical distribution. In the absence and a pathogen is merely one factor in a complicated of lice, juvenile pink salmon distribution changed equation. Merely finding a parasite or pathogen on slightly from day to night, fish less than 3 weeks post- or in any organism is not to be confused with a state saltwater entry (up to ~0.5 g) were typically found to of disease. If a fish is in a healthy state it will be quite occupy the top 3 m of the water column. capable of combating any number of challenges. When lice and fish were held together in the When that same animal is compromised by some Water column raised for inspection. column, salmon dispersed more during the day, factor, biotic or abiotic, the scenario can play out but their pattern of distribution did not change at quite differently. For this reason it is important that Sea lice management night. No difference in the proportion of infected vs. we gain knowledge regarding the overall health of uninfected fish was observed relative to the vertical a population of fish. Juvenile pink salmon out-mi- It is accepted that there exists a relationship distribution of the fish, suggesting that infective grating through the Broughton Archipelago in 2008 between sea lice on wild salmon and salmon farms, pressure is independent of daylight and depth. were evaluated for physiologic condition, sea lice, although that relationship is, as yet, incompletely There have been suggestions that juvenile salmon other parasites, bacteria, viruses, and microscopic defined. Regardless, prudence demands that a prey on the eggs of lice and/or the lice themselves. It lesions. cautionary approach be taken to managing the is unknown whether the copepodids were following Histopathology found microscopic lesions that interactions. Mathematical modeling has been the fish as potential hosts or the fish were following are considered to have developed in the saltwater used to connect data from farms with that from the copepodids as a potential food source, only that environment, yet were not attributable to sea lice. ® wild salmon sampling. SLICE has been shown to their vertical distributions were correlated within the This suggests that there are other, as yet unidenti- reduce lice on farms and therefore transmission to column when they were free to interact. fied, factors that are impacting juvenile salmon in wild juvenile salmon. Reduced sea lice transmission the Broughton. In nature, parasites are a normal implies improved wild salmon survival but it remains Physiological implications and natural occurrence but the question remains, ® unknown if SLICE is sufficient to conserve and While much of the focus in recent years has been are salmon unhealthy because they are infested with restore wild salmon. on population effects of lice loads, there is very little lice, or are they infested with lice because they are Studies in the Broughton indicate that infections available data on the effects infection on individual unhealthy. begin in the winter. In the winter of 2008, salmon fish. Experiments in 2008 involved over 10,000 farms at the Knight Inlet/Tribune Channel region juvenile pink salmon, some as small as 0.2 g, and Salmon population dynamics were treated with SLICE and thus were virtually free examined, in a field setting, the effects ofL. salmonis It is important to highlight the fact that salmon of sea lice. In the winter of 2007/2008 sticklebacks on ionic balance and swimming performance of the populations have shown significant declines all

22 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SEA LICE along the BC coastline. The population depressions are not limited to the Broughton. However, the research Measuring the overall health of funded by the Forum focused on this region and found that pink salmon production out of the Glendale Channel was approximately half of that of 2007 and out-migrating juvenile pink salmon this is likely attributed to low adult escapement in 2007 relative to higher numbers observed in 2006. Installation of a resistivity counter on the Glendale There is considerable discrepancy in the inter- est prevalence of motile sea lice occurred in June. spawning channel will allow accurate egg to fry survival pretation of findings between lab-based and field Condition factor was not significantly associated numbers to be acquired over the coming years to assess sea lice studies conducted in British Columbia. with sea lice. Maximum prevalence of fish with survival trends over time. Preliminary estimates of Moreover, little information is available on the acutely damaged liver cells (hepatocellular hy- escapement derived via over-flight assessments indicate effects of other parasites and lesions on wild pink dropic degeneration) was greater in 2007 (32%) replacement of brood in some systems and much salmon at the individual and population levels. than in 2008 (12%). Sea lice were negatively asso- reduced returns relative to brood in other systems. In order to resolve this situation, research- ciated with liver glycogen stores in 2008. Parasites The overall trend in escapement indicates a significant ers have been investigating the overall health of belonging to several taxonomic groups infested decrease in overall numbers between 2006 and 2008 juvenile pink salmon during their out-migration the Juvenile pink salmon, in many cases at higher with the Glendale at 91% fewer numbers of returning in the Broughton Archipelago in 2007 and 2008. prevalence levels than sea lice. adults than in 2006. The trends are similar to those The fish were evaluated for physiologic condi- observed in other systems outside of the Mainland tion, sea lice, other parasites, bacteria, viruses, Duration: Mar ‘07 – Nov ‘08 Inlets (i.e. Central and North Coast) and do not appear and microscopic lesions. Funded by: BC Pacific Salmon Forum to be a localized event as was encountered in 2002 and This investigation yielded a number of inter- 2003. esting results. Juvenile pink salmon collected Project team: Sonja Saksida (BC CAHS), Gary Marty (BCMAL), Simon Jones (DFO), Sophie St-Hilaire directly from the Glendale River in March 2008 (Idaho State U) Salmon/sea lice dynamics in regions had no sea lice or microscopic lesions suggesting outside the Broughton Archipelago that all lesions in fish sampled from salt water For information contact: Sonja Saksida ([email protected]) While the overall focus of the Forum funded developed after saltwater entry. In 2008, the high- research was the Broughton Archipelago, there were research projects underway in other regions that were fully or partially funded by the BCPSF. Juvenile salmon in the Bella Bella region, an area that lacks salmon Monitoring reveals decline in farms, were found to host low levels of sea lice (3.5%), which are considered to be natural background levels for the region. In regions where there are fish farms, sea lice prevalence and abundance significantly more juvenile salmon were found to host sea lice in areas near to farms compared to areas farther from farms. Elevated levels of lice nearer to on wild salmon juveniles farms included significantly greater proportions of In the Broughton Archipelago the prevalence and abundance of L. salmonis on wild juvenile L. salmonis, a salmon-specific species, thanC. clemensi, pink and chum salmon has continuously declined since 2004. The reasons for this decline are which is more of a generalist (found on numerous fish not yet fully understood. DFO has conducted surveillance for sea lice since 2003. species). In a controlled laboratory experiment, approximately 35% pink salmon weighing less than The Kitasoo Fisheries Program undertook a 0.3 g died following exposure to L. salmonis copepodids. But by the time these juvenile pink monitoring program and collected juvenile salmon in salmon grow to about 0.7 g, they are highly resistant to the lethal effects of L. salmonis. From areas around and away from salmon farms between this research the threshold of lethal infection was calculated to be of 7.5 lice/g for pink salmon 2004 and 2008 and assessed them for sea lice. Both weighing less than 0.7 grams. C. clemensi and L. salmonis were observed on fish in all The monitoring in the Broughton Archipelago has shown that in all years, virtually all wild areas sampled. In 2008, lice levels were the lowest of all pink salmon (> 98.9%) sampled in late March and early April had a mass of less than 0.7 g. But years data were collected. Prevalence and intensity of by June, in all the years surveyed, less than 1% of wild pink salmon juveniles are still under 0.7 L salmonis was low in all areas sampled and in all years g. The monitoring also revealed that the percentage of wild pink salmon weighing less than 0.7 examined for both chum and pink salmon. L. salmonis grams with infections greater than 7.5 lice per gram was 4.5% in 2005, 0.8% in 2006, 0.4% in abundance levels were higher on pink salmon caught 2007 and zero in 2008. around farms in 2005 and 2006 but not in 2007 or 2008 when data were compared to the reference area. The Gulf Islands area in the Strait of Georgia is a Duration: Mar ‘03 – Nov ‘08 major rearing area for all species of juvenile Pacific Funded by: BC Pacific Salmon Forum, DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Marine Harvest Canada, DFO. salmon. As part of another study in 2008, researchers Project team: Simon Jones (DFO), Brent Hargreaves (DFO) were able to measure sea lice levels on these juvenile salmon. The levels of infection were approximately For information contact: Simon Jones ([email protected]) 70% and were mostly C. clemensi. There were no salmon farms in the area, indicating that large, natural infections of sea lice can occur. Conclusions Multi-disciplinary team investigates The purpose of the Broughton research strategy was to attempt to clarify some of the interactions between farmed and wild fish in the marine ecosystem genomics in sea lice and salmon with a primary focus on wild pink and chum salmon populations in all facets of their life cycle. The research considered what factors in the ecosystem may impact A new multidisciplinary research team in British the newly identified Pacific population ofL. salmo- these wild fish populations, the incremental risk, if any, Columbia initiated a project called Genomics nis. They are using existing and novel microsatel- associated with salmon farming, and how any potential in Lice and Salmon (GiLS). This 3-year project lite markers and single nucleotide polymorphisms risks could be mitigated. While many questions remain involving collaboration between three universi- (SNPs) to examine the amount of genetic varia- unanswered and new questions have arisen as a result ties, industry partners and provincial and federal tion and its distribution in Pacific populations of of a rigorous collection of scientific investigations, the governments is aimed at achieving four key objec- sea lice. research findings expand our existing knowledge and tives. In the fourth component of the project, will continue to provide a foundation for future studies First, researchers expect to elucidate Pacific researchers will analyze the potential for effective that will shed more light on the inter-relationships and Atlantic salmon genetic responses following use of science in understanding, and ultimately among all factors. laboratory exposures to the sea lice Lepeophtheirus moving towards the resolution of the sea lice/ salmonis using salmon microarray technology. salmon controversy. Note: This article is based on individual research This knowledge should enable them to predict The full journal article of this project’s results summaries provided to the BCPSF and the information defense responses in both susceptible and refrac- can be viewed at: http://springerlink.com/con- has not been subjected to a formal peer review process. tory host species. tent/u63k14u857p40387/ The full summaries of the research projects highlighted Second, the team is working to uncover the within the above may be found at the BC Pacific parasite genetic responses in order to develop Duration: Nov ‘08 – Oct ‘11 Salmon Forum’s website at effective parasite treatment targets. They plan to do this by obtaining a comprehensive list of the Funded by: Genome BC Co-funded by: U Vic, DFO, SFU, VIU, http://www.pacificsalmonforum.ca/ Marine Harvest Canada, Mainstream Canada, Grieg Seafoods, genes of L. salmonis and Caligus spp. and building Microtech Research and Development Ltd., BCMAL a gene chip to examine gene expression patterns A list of researchers involved in the BCPSF funded projects is following exposure to environmental or biologi- Project team: Ben Koop (U Vic), Simon Jones (DFO), Willie available at the Forum website: www.pacificsalmonforum.ca cal effects. Davidson (SFU), Grant Murray (VIU) Third, the team intends to confirm and define For information contact: Ben Koop ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 23 SEA LICE

® Can SLICE have an Modeling supports coordinated area impact on non-target management production in the Broughton organisms? The Broughton aquaculture indus- try has recently proposed a Coor- Sea lice infestations at marine cage finfish farms in British dinated Area Management Pro- Columbia are often treated by the anti-parasitic chemotherapeu- ® duction (CAMP) plan in which a tant SLICE . Concerns have been raised by various stakeholder combination of SLICE® treatments groups regarding the potential effect of the active compound in and fallowing are used to minimize this treatment, Emamectin benzoate (EB), on non-target organ- potential lice infections on wild isms. juvenile salmon migrating seaward To address this concern, researchers are investigating the fate past fish farms. of EB and its desmethyl metabolite following the application of ® As part of a BC Pacific Salmon SLICE at selected finfish farm sites in the surrounding environ- Forum project, researchers Dario ment. They are measuring concentrations in localized sediments Stucchi and Mike Foreman have and the water column in order to provide an assessment of the developed two computer models potential effect on ecosystem functioning. The team is also for the Broughton Archipelago. looking at the uptake of EB and its desmethyl metabolite by the One is a three-dimensional numeri- Pacific Spot Prawn,Pandalus platyceros, under both laboratory 3 cal circulation model that, with ap- Concentration of infective sea lice (Log10[copepods/m ] ) arising and field conditions. propriate forcing for specific time from farm sources. White circles show farm locations and size of This dual approach is providing a standardized framework periods, is capable of simulating the circles represents strength of the source for toxicity assessment and evaluation of ‘real world’ environ- velocity, salinity and temperature mental conditions against which the toxicity measures can be fields throughout the region. The second is a model of sea lice dispersal, development, and compared. The outcomes of the laboratory study are providing behaviour. This model applies the 3D circulation model of currents to predict dispersal of a framework within which field derived measurements can be the planktonic larvae and model the temperature and salinity fields which control sea lice assessed. In addition, the measured environmental EB concen- development and mortality. trations are being used to test, calibrate and implement the As a guide to the future implementation of CAMP and in consultation with industry, DEPOMOD model so it can be used to predict the behavior of the two models are being used to investigate how the 2008 infective pressures would have EB in relevant aquatic ecosystems. These findings are proving to changed under different treatment/fallowing scenarios. be useful in developing policy towards the regulation of SLICE®.

Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Duration: Sep ‘08 – Aug ‘09 Funded by: DFO PARR Co-funded by: BC Pacific Salmon Forum Funded by: BC Pacific Salmon Forum Co-funded by: DFO-PARR, BCMoE Project team: Dario Stucchi (DFO), Mike Foreman (DFO), Ming Guo (DFO), Piotr Czajko (U Vic), Gabe Wiebe (U Vic), Project team: Michael G. Ikonomou (DFO), Jon Chamberlain (DFO), Graham Brent Hargreaves (DFO), Simon Jones (DFO), Marine Harvest Canada, Mainstream Canada, Grieg Seafood BC Ltd. van Aggelen (EC), Caren Helbing (U Vic), Eric McGreer (BCMoE), Chris Sporer (Pacific Prawn Fishers Association) For information contact: Dario Stucchi ([email protected]) For information contact: Michael G. Ikonomou ([email protected]) Will Scottish sentinel Juvenile pink salmon Researchers test cage technology work must reach critical in the Broughton weight to withstand light traps to sea lice Archipelago? monitor and control Controlled laboratory exposures to L. sal- Health management of cultured salmon in monis were used to assess the effect of host British Columbia includes scheduled monitor- size and parasite dose on the susceptibility planktonic-stage ing of parasitic sea lice, including Lepeophthei- and survival of wild- and hatchery-spawned rus salmonis. Farmed stock is treated if sea lice pink salmon. The researchers conducted infestations exceed the threshold defined in three trials in which juvenile pink salmon sea lice the Provincial Sea Lice Action Plan. Although had starting weights of approximately 0.3, Investigators at Simon Fraser University and DFO are looking at infestations of farmed Atlantic salmon persist, 0.7, and 2.4 g. In each trial, the fish were novel ways to monitor and control sea lice using light traps. Sea associated disease has been virtually absent in exposed to 0, 25 (only for 0.3 g), 50, or 100 lice are parasitic copepods that attach to and feed on fin fish. BC and the parasite is considered a nuisance. copepodids per fish. Aquaculture operations are striving to minimize sea lice infec- The extent to which local environmental The results revealed that regardless of tion within fish farms and prevent transfer between cultured (e.g., salinity, temperature, currents) and bio- the pink salmon stock, approximately 37% and wild fish. Infection of both wild and cultured fish occurs logical (e.g., abundance, distribution and diver- of the 0.3 g fish died following exposures when they encounter larval sea lice during their brief free-living sity of wild hosts) processes not associated with to 50 or 100 copepodids. The mean days to planktonic stage of the life cycle. salmon farming regulate levels of sea lice risk death was 16.1 and more than 80% of the Present control strategies minimize production of planktonic within the Broughton Archipelago is poorly un- lice on the dead fish were in the chalimus lice by limiting the density of their parasitic parent population. derstood. There is very little information on the stages. Mortality was significantly lower Presently this is done by adding the pesticide SLICE® to the abundance and distribution of wild salmonid when the larger fish were exposed to the sea fish feed when parasites on the penned fish exceed a triggering hosts in the Broughton Archipelago particularly lice. The researchers surmise that the skin threshold abundance. However, the treatment is expensive, and in the winter months. Consequently, farmed of the 0.3 g pink salmon is histologically cannot be administered close to harvest date. Atlantic salmon continue to be implicated as poorly developed and lacks scales compared A supplementary control could involve elimination of the the most abundant hosts. with skin of 0.7 g and 2.4 g pink salmon. planktonic stage lice. Both adult and planktonic sea-lice are pos- A method for quantifying the abundance of The results indicate that an elevated itively phototactic: they swim toward a point source of light. This planktonic sea lice larvae (copepodids) dur- risk associated with L. salmonis infection behavior can be exploited to physically trap the lice. Light traps ing the winter months is needed, particularly may occur among migrating post-emergent are being deployed within and near fish pens in the Broughton during the weeks and months prior to the out- pink salmon during a relatively brief period Archipelago. By comparing trap capture rates with ambient den- migration of juvenile pink and chum salmon. before the fish reach 0.7 g. sities of planktonic lice, sampled by pump, an estimate of the The objective of the proposed research in this The full journal article of this project’s mortality or removal rate per trap can be made. pilot study is to determine the feasibility of us- results can be viewed at: http://www3.inter- The team is also making a limited number of net tows in a ing proven Scottish sentinel cage technology to science.wiley.com/journal/120751387/issue region where planktonic lice were relatively abundant in 2007 better characterize the distribution of infective and 2008, to learn if enhanced SLICE® treatment and fallowing sea lice stages in the Broughton Archipelago. Duration: Apr ‘07 – Jun ‘08 in 2009 is having the desired effect. Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Marine Harvest Duration: Dec ‘07 – Sep ‘09 Canada Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Marine Harvest Project team: Simon Jones (DFO), Eliah Kim (DFO), Funded by: DFO-PARR Canada William Bennett (DFO) Project team: David Mackas (DFO), Moira Galbraith (DFO), Brian Riddell (DFO), Project team: Simon Jones (DFO), Sonja Saksida (BC CAHS) For information contact: Simon Jones ([email protected]) Iñigo Novales Flamarique (SFU), Christina Gulbranson (SFU) For information contact: Simon Jones For information contact: David Mackas ([email protected]) ([email protected])

24 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH Stress effects in shellfish investigated three ways

Responding to an industry-wide need for more efficient ways to evaluate and monitor health states in shellfish, three research teams across Canada have been looking at different aspects of the problem.

Seedstock differences in Newfoundland understand what ultimately determines a fatal response. With a sensitive genom- ics tool applied to a number of “keystone species”, scientists should be able to DFO’s Randy Penney, based in St. John’s, Newfoundland, is interested in perform far more accurate and timely health assessments of individual shellfish. the reported variability in performance of different mussel seedstocks, some of This would facilitate assessments of ecosystems in various coastal zones and stocks which comprise two species (Mytilus edulis and Mytilus trossulus), when confront- in aquaculture operations, as well as monitoring of environmental changes and ed with stresses related to temperature and salinity. At DFO, Randy Penney, Dr. their effects. Dounia Hamoutene and their team are comparing physiological stress respons- es (primarily “heat shock protein” Hsp) of several indigenous seedstocks from the Notre Dame Bay area. The team is currently working out some standardized testing protocols for Hsp and other stress proteins in the hopes of develop- ing a quantitative way to identify “hardy” strains that can be used for inter-site transfers, and which may be expected to perform favourably compared to local mixed-species stocks. They hope to provide recommendations to the industry regarding the most desirable stocks for commercial development, and to begin comparative work on stress response in scallops (Placopecten magellanicus).

Behavioural indicators in Quebec Mussels were also involved in a recently-completed study at the University of Quebec at Rimouski. Noting the difficulties in determining the state of health of individual shellfish outside obvious indicators such as very slow closing of the valves in already-moribund animals, Dr. Rejean Tremblay, Rachel Picard and Dr. Bruno Myrand have been seeking a simple, behavioural indicator that could be quantified for intermediate levels of stress between robust health and deep morbidity. They tested the time required for softshell (Mya arenaria) to bury themselves, and assessed the strength of attachment and number of bys- sus threads produced by mussels (Mytilus edulis), after removal from the water for more than three days at 100% humidity. The researchers reported that the behavioural indicators selected were not able to discern various levels of stress in test animals.

A Genome-based model in BC A research program (Myt-OME) on the West Coast funded by Genome Brit- ish Columbia and the BC Innovation Council has taken a different approach to the challenge of quantifying stress responses in shellfish. Led by Dr. Helen Gurney-Smith of Vancouver Island University’s Centre for Shellfish Research and Dr. Stewart Johnson of the DFO Pacific Biological Station, a team of inter- national collaborators is attempting to identify the genes involved in the expres- sion of stress responses. According to Dr. Gurney-Smith, “Most people have heard the expression ‘happy as a ’, but the truth is we do not have any tools to determine if a clam is happy (healthy). Genomic science can provide the necessary tools”. In 2008 an investment of more than $400,000 by the Government of Can- ada through Western Economic Diversification Canada helped to establish a Shellfish Genomics Laboratory at Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo, BC, where research tools will be developed to diagnose various factors related to transportation, pollution and environment in hatchery-reared larvae and adult shellfish. In recognition of the many possible overlapping sources of stress arising through environmental conditions, human activities and biological influences such as disease, Dr. Gurney-Smith and her team have launched a major pro- gram to develop a genomics tool for use with mussels (Mytilus spp.), a known ecosystem bio-indicator genus. They hope to devise an accurate way to measure the activity of specific genes that are up- and down- regulated in response to a variety of stressors. Once they can measure accurately the genomic biomarkers that respond to multiple-stressing conditions in the marine environment, they will be able to correlate levels of stress with environmental conditions, and to Dr. Helen Gurney-Smith

Newfoundland study: Quebec study: British Columbia study: Duration: Nov ‘08 - Ongoing Duration: 2005 – 2008 Duration: Jan ‘09 – Mar ‘10 Funded by: DFO Funded by: MAPAQ Funded by: Genome British Columbia. Project team: Randy Penney (DFO), Dounia Hamoutene (DFO), Project team: Rejean Tremblay (ISMER-UQAR), Rachel Picard Project team: Helen Gurney-Smith (CSR-VIU), Stewart Johnson Juan Perez Casanova (DFO), Sean Macneill (DFO), Marsha Clarke (ISMER-UQAR), Bruno Myrand (CEMIM-MAPAQ). (DFO), Ben Koop (UVIC), Antonio Figueras (CSIS-IIM, (DFO). For information contact: Rejean Tremblay Spanish Ref. Lab. For Mollusc Diseases, Spain), Crain Newton For information contact: Randy Penney ([email protected]) (ATG Genetics). ([email protected]) For information contact: Helen Gurney-Smith ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 25 SHELLFISH

(Photo: S. Gauthier-Clerc) Quebec team investigates the metabolic basis for mussel gaping

The phenomenon of gaping observed in cultivated mussels in Quebec is a major obstacle to the development of the mussel aquaculture industry as consumers are very reluctant to buy open mussels. Mussels from Prince Edward Island, Quebec’s main competition in this market, are reported to have a signifi- Mechanical harvester cantly lower incidence of gaping. It is therefore critical for the Quebec mussel aquaculture industry to gain an understanding of this phenomenon in order to be able to address it. The research team is investigating whether the propensity Does mechanical clam of mussels for gaping is voluntary and occurs when they are exposed to air, resulting from a lack of sufficient oxygen to meet their metabolic needs, or whether it is caused by a decrease in tone of the adductor muscle, which controls valve movement. harvesting in BC pose any The appearance of gaping so soon after harvesting suggests that priority should be given to examining this phenomenon. Several questions are being asked. Does temperature influ- environmental risk? ence the intensity of metabolic activity in mussels and therefore BC shellfish farmers are find- their propensity for gaping? Does icing the mussels with large ing it challenging to compete quantities of ice immediately after they are removed from the in the international shellfish water help reduce their metabolic activity, increase their stress marketplace. To increase their tolerance, and decrease their propensity for gaping? competitiveness, the industry must find ways to increase Duration: Jun ‘07 – May ‘10 productivity while at the same Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: SODIM, RAQ time reducing harvesting Project team: Marcel Fréchette (DFO), Sophie Gauthier-Clerc (ISMER-MAPAQ), costs. For certain species, the Réjean Tremblay (UQAR-ISMER), Francis Coulombe (CTPA-MAPAQ), Sonia Bel- use of a mechanical harvester vin (ISMER-MAPAQ), Marie-Élise Carbonneau (CTPA-MAPAQ), Réjean Allard holds significant promise to (Pêcheries R. Allard Inc.), Marie-Gil Fortin (MAPAQ) Nicolas Bouchard (DFO), increase efficiency and lower Linda Girard (DFO) costs. For information contact: Marcel Fréchette ([email protected]) In 2002, Chuckanut Shell- fish Inc. modified a mechani- cal tulip bulb harvester, de- signed for greenhouse harvest, Finding the causal agent of to successfully harvest Manila clams (Venerupis philippinarum) malpeque disease in Nova in Samish Bay, . This machine effectively re- Scotia oysters duced harvest labour costs to The industry has been plagued on several occasions 3-5% of the farm gate value. by a highly infectious Malpeque disease. Initially, the disease Approximately 1,600 metric tonnes of Manila clams appeared in 1915 in Malpeque Bay, PEI, and again in the Clam harvesting 1950’s and 60’s, with losses of up to 90% of affected stocks. are harvested annually from Disease tolerance developed over time followed by recovery farms in BC, and the tradi- of most stocks. In 2007, new outbreaks were observed in the tional method of harvesting Bras D’Or Lakes and St Ann’s Harbour, Cape Breton. Manila clams is by hand, using Malpeque disease is believed to be caused by a pathogen, rakes. Even though this is the although all attempts to identify the cause of this abnormal accepted method in BC, an condition have been inconclusive. The disease is diagnosed environmental assessment of on various gross and histological observations, e.g., mantle hand harvesting has not been regression, gaping, nodules in the mantle, accumulation conducted. Literature on the of ceroid-containing cells, haemocyte infiltration and focal environmental effects of me- haemocyte accumulations. chanical harvesting does exist, Researchers are working on a two part investigation though much of it is focused leading to the development of molecular-based tools for the on different techniques and diagnosis of Malpeque disease. The first is to confirm the species in other areas of the presence of a pathogen in infected oyster tissues by isolating world. small parts of its genetic material. Using these data, the sec- The research team in this ond part of the project is the development of a PCR-based project is determining the test to determine the presence or absence of the pathogen potential near and far field ef- fects of mechanical and hand from animal tissues. Hand harvesters harvesting. In particular, they are considering the potential Duration: Jul ‘08 – Jun ‘10 (Pentlatch Seafood), Bill Taylor (Taylor Duration: May ‘08 – Mar ‘10 Shellfish), Chris Pearce (DFO), Bill risks to valued habitat produc- Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Heath (BCMAL). Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funding: AANS. tivity, providing the scientific BCSGA. information necessary for the For information contact: Kerra Hoyseth Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), Mark Laflamme (DFO), Roland Cusack Project team: Kerra Hoyseth (DFO), development of appropriate ([email protected]) (NS DFA) Ryan Sherman (DFO), Steven Cross (U regulatory approval criteria For information contact: Nellie Gagné ([email protected]) Vic), David McCallum (BCSGA), Tom Project website: http://bcsga.ca/?p=444 for such activities. Broadley (BCSGA), Gordy McLel- lan (Macs oysters), Richard Hardy

26 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH

Submersible deep-water mussel system to begin commercial trials

Mussel growers in Atlantic Canada, Quebec were lowered and raised over two consecu- and British Columbia have to contend with tive seasons, and performed well through challenges presented by rough seas, ice and periods of rough weather, shore-fast ice and diving ducks, all of which can compromise pack ice movement. Although the aim is the consistency and economic viability of to protect equipment by sinking it out of production. However, if socks or lines could harm’s way, the mussels no doubt benefited be suspended in deep water, at least for part from less handling and more stable growing of the year, most of these perils could be conditions at a time when conditions can be avoided without removing or relocating the extreme. entire farm. For some areas, where mussel With good results over the last two grow- farming is now marginal, a way to mitigate ing seasons, the project will be moving into these challenges could ensure sustainability Phase II this summer. A deep water site has and help local mussel growers consolidate been selected for early commercialization their position in the spectrum of local aqua- trials, and if the concept proves economical- culture businesses. ly viable, mussel farmers on both coasts will A research program funded by DFO- have a way to protect their gear and their AIMAP and the Government of Newfound- stocks, and may look forward to all-season land and Labrador has been investigating production with far fewer headaches. the feasibility of submerging long lines in deeper water during the winter. During Duration: Aug ‘08 – Jul ‘09 Phase I of the current project, a reeving (Photo: T. Landry) device was created by Farewell Mussel Farms Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: NRC, NL DFA, Go Deep International, Farewell Mussel Farms. of Newfoundland, then modified for use in deep water, and deployed by Norlantic Project team: Terry Mills (Norlantic Processors), Shawn Evaluating and Processors, Ltd. Other Phase I stakehold- Paul (Norlantic Processors), Greg Brake (Norlantic Proces- ers included the National Research Council sors). optimizing mussel seed of Canada, and Go Deep International of For information contact: Terry Mills New Brunswick. During this trial, the lines ([email protected]) quality in Nova Scotia One of the strengths of the mussel aquaculture industry in Can manipulation of close to the water surface, and lowering the oys- Atlantic Canada is the access to an affordable and reliable seed ters would take them out of reach of their food supply. However, this has also generated some concerns over the source, thus reducing their growth. quality of mussel seed, particularly in relation to the presence of culture depth reduce In order to find the optimum balance be- the two Mytilus species; M. edulis and M. trossulus. tween oyster mortality and growth, it is neces- Poor seed quality has resulted in crop losses due to high mor- summer mortalities in sary to find the optimum depth to which the tality rates, processing difficulties and low market values. Recent oysters should be lowered in conjunction with work on the seed quality issue is providing mussel farmers with Pacific oysters? the temperature shift that should be triggered a better knowledge on geographical variability in seed quality in by the change of depth. This investigation is terms of species composition as well as physiological fitness. Oyster growers in British Columbia normally geared to study this problem with scientific Work in this project is focused on the temporal variability of lose approximately 10% of their stock in raft- methods applied to farm conditions through- mussel seed. Specifically, researchers are investigating the ratio based operations during the summer. Transient out the Strait of Georgia. The results of this of M. trossulus and M. edulis and their respective physiological periods of very high temperature and the oc- research will allow oyster growers to make man- fitness throughout their growth cycle in the natural population currence of harmful algal blooms can cause a agement decisions to reduce the mortalities and aquaculture sites in Nova Scotia. massive increase in the mortalities, decimating in their stock based on simple environmental Researchers are developing cost-effective and practical ap- oyster stock by as much as 50 to 100%. monitoring and tray movement. proaches to evaluate and optimize seed quality by reducing Researchers are proposing a management the percentage of M. trossulus while improving the quality of option to mitigate the impact of these two en- Duration: Jun ‘08 – Jul ‘09 seed in terms of the physiological fitness. Apart from the clear vironmental factors. It involves lowering oyster economical benefits of developing these approaches, there are culture trays to a depth where the temperature Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: BCSGA, Mac’s Oysters Ltd., Taylor Shellfish Canada. equally important ecological benefits associated with optimizing is lower and harmful algae are less concentrat- seed quality. Improving the efficiency of mussel farms will help ed. This is to be done as soon as the tempera- Project team: Maite Maldonado (UBC), Chris Pearce (DFO), optimize the critical ecological services provided by mussels and David Cassis (UBC) ture and seawater transparency reach certain other filtering animals in aquaculture environment. critical values. The caveat of this method is that For information contact: Chris Pearce normal phytoplankton are also concentrated ([email protected]) Duration: Mar ‘07 – Jun ‘09 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Darren Porter, NS DFA Gulf of St. Lawrence navigation buoys may Project team: Thomas Landry (DFO) For information contact: Thomas Landry ([email protected]) serve as mussel spat monitoring tools Choosing a good mussel culture site is com- ing recruitment and growth of mussel spat. plicated by the lack of prior knowledge of The team is comparing spat populations from recruitment and growth of spat under farmed conventional collectors with spat found on conditions. Once established, mussel culture navigation buoys at various sites in the Gulf of operations also need annually updated infor- St. Lawrence. The spat from collectors can be mation about spat performance. In addition, considered to be representative of the aquacul- the approaches generally used in this field are ture situation and will serve as a control. The often plagued by problems inherent in moni- investigation is focusing on the potential useful- toring the spatial and temporal variability in ness of the navigation bouys for aquaculture the marine environment. monitoring. These constraints impose choices that limit Duration: Dec ‘06 – Mar ‘10 the geographic scope of conventional monitor- ing programs. Without sound data, the indus- Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: SODIM, RAQ try’s ability to plan its research and develop- Project team: Marcel Fréchette (DFO), Martin Guay (CACN), ment needs is compromised. It is therefore Yannick Goaziou (CACN), François Bourque (MAPAQ), Be- essential to develop effective and economical noît Thomas (MAPAQ), Ihsène Ben Salah (UQAR-ISMER), strategies for studying geographic variations in Jocelyne Pellerin (UQAR-ISMER), Linda Girard (DFO), the recruitment and growth of mussel spat. Myriam Lachance-Bernard (DFO) This project aims to develop a simple, For information contact: Marcel Fréchette effective and low-cost method for monitor- ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 27 SHELLFISH

Female skeleton shrimp: Mature female skeleton shrimp (Caprella mutica about 12 mm total length excluding antennules) showing well developed brood pouch. (Photo: T. Gosselin) Research aims to control epibionts on mussel spat collectors An experimental mussel transfer in Green Bay, NL (Photo: DFO)

Epibionts can have a sig- nificant effect on mussel Improved mussel seed spat collection and growth. Researchers are examin- ing interactions between supply results from skeleton shrimp, hydrozoans and mussels at mussel cul- ture sites in Cascapédia and Newfoundland project Gaspé bays. Improving the basic knowledge about these Newfoundland is a zone of epibionts is helping to verify hybridization between two the effectiveness of an epibi- mussel species, Mytilus edulis ont control protocol and is and M. trossulus and growers leading to the development currently use seedstocks of of criteria for determin- mixtures of both species and ing whether “treatment” is their hybrids. Low produc- worthwhile, based on a cost/ tion rates and poor quality benefit analysis over time product have been associ- periods representative of ated with stocks of high Mixed M. edulis and M. trossulus stock mussel spat collection and proportions of M. trossulus. from NL (Photo: DFO) socking operations. Evidence has shown that During the course of this culture of monospecificM. edulis stocks has potential to improve project, the research team industry-wide production and product quality. is documenting the biol- The use of transferred monospecificM. edulis stocks by indus- ogy, ecology and spatial and try has been recommended to replace the current practice of temporal variability of the collecting seed on sites with high ratios of M. trossulus. However, establishment of undesirable monospecificM. edulis stocks have not always consistently out- epibiont communities. They performed indigenous mixed-species stocks when such seed- are testing the hypothesis of stocks have been transferred to other growout sites. a negative effect of skeleton There is speculation as to the reasons for this, but genetic shrimp and hydrozoans on variation within the M. edulis genotype is highly suspected. mussel spat collection and Sources of monospecific or high-ratioM. edulis stocks need to be growth in the short term identified and their performance needs to be tested on recipi- (intra-season) and in the ent sites to determine their true potential as donor seedstock long term (spat collection sites. and socking) and quantify The research team is searching for and assessing new po- the impact. tential seedstock sources. In addition, they are closely assessing They are also exploring seedstock in relation to existing aquaculture leases to determine the trophic dynamics of their potential for development as future donor sources of high epibiont communities on Mussel spat collectors with heavy set of mussel spat completely covered by a quality seed. spat collectors and, the case dense population of skeleton shrimp. (Photo: C. Turcotte) arising, determining the Duration: Apr ‘08 – Mar ‘10 mechanism by which skel- rules based on the impact and Project team: Bernard Sainte-Marie Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: NRC-IRAP; MI, CCFI. eton shrimp impact spat col- costs for various “infestation” (DFO), Christian Turcotte (UQAR), lection and growth (predation Project team: Randy Penney (DFO), Sean Macneill (DFO), Sharon Kenny (DFO), thresholds. Réjean Tremblay (UQAR), Fabrice Marsha Clarke (DFO/NAIA), Kim Hobbs (NAIA), Christopher Dawe (MI), Darryl and/or competition for food). Pernet (IFREMER, Sètes) Green (NAIA), Tom Brown (MI), Chris Brown (NRC), David Innes (MUN), Marc Duration: Apr ‘07 – May ‘10 Finally, they are verifying the For information contact: Bernard Kielley (CCFI). effectiveness of early bringing Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Sainte-Marie For information contact: Randy Penney ([email protected]) in for controlling epibionts DFO-AIS. ([email protected]) and propose decision-making

28 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH Projects begin to yield results in managing invasive tunicates in PEI

A multi-project initiative is yielding innovative equipment and approaches in managing and pro- cessing tunicate infested mussel crops in PEI. Over twenty individual projects are currently being conducted to reduce the impact of invasive tunicates on mussel crops and to improve the produc- tivity in infested waters. Technologies to reduce the biomass of tunicates on mussel socks are being transferred, modified and tested. The industry is focusing its main efforts on two technologies in order to optimize their use in relation to timing and frequen- Above: Lime treatment system used to cy of application, within a sound environmental context. These treat the clubbed tunicate in Malpeque projects are providing critical information on the effects of these Bay, recovers the lime in the horizontal part of the mechanism for re-use. This treatment regimes in different geographical areas with varying system belongs to Martin MacDonald. levels of infestation. Complementary scientific investigations are providing valu- able information on the biology of the invasive tunicate to assist Left: High-pressure washer used to in developing optimal management strategies that will ensure treat mussel socks for Ciona. The the sustainability of the mussel industry in PEI, as well as other machine uses two rows of 8 high pres- sure oscillating water nozzles to clean aquaculture industries in Canada affected by aquatic invasive Ciona off the mussel socks as they species. pass through the vertical chamber Duration: Jul ‘07 – Mar ‘08 suspended from the side of the boat. This picture was taken in Cardigan Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: PEI DFAE, ACOA, PEIAA Bay. The pressure washer belongs to Wayne Chaisson and has proved very For information contact: Thomas Landry effective at cleaning Ciona off mussel ([email protected]) gear.

Project investigates sources of impacts to clam gardens in the Broughton Archipelago

Concern has been raised by Broughton Archipelago First Nations (‘Namgis and Kwicksutaineuk-Ah’kwak’ah’mish First Nations) about changes to the productivity of a number of clam beaches and culturally modified clam terraces within their Traditional Territories. The concern centers on the possibility of impacts to clam popula- tions from commercial salmon farms in the Broughton Archipelago. In addition to salmon farming, the range of possible human disturbances in this region includes forestry impacts, such as watershed logging and sediment deposition, log handling and storage ac- tivities, and woody debris buildup in the marine environment. Desired outcomes of this project are to un- derstand the forces that shape and impact the populations of bivalves in the study area with special reference to the potential effects of salmon farms. Of equal importance is the development of a hierarchical ranking of factors that influence intertidal clam popula- tions. In addition, future considerations for long-term monitoring or mitigative procedures to suspend or reverse further loss of clam productivity and quality standards will be outlined.

Duration: Nov ‘07 – Sep ‘10 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Marine Harvest Canada Inc. Project team: Terri Sutherland (DFO), Sharon Dedominicis (Marine Harvest Canada Inc.), Clare Backman (Marine Harvest Canada Inc.), Marty Weinstein (M.S. Weinstein Consult- ing Services), Doug Aberley (‘Namgis Nation Representative), Jason Dunham (DFO), Curtis Roegner (NOAA Fisheries Service), John Harper (Coastal and Ocean Resources Inc.), Barry Hargrave, Shawn Robinson (DFO), Kevin Butterworth (BC CAHS), Eric McGreer (BC MoE). For information contact: Terri Sutherland ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 29 SHELLFISH Developing strategies to optimize shell growth performance and quality of near market size oysters

In this 18-month study, researchers explored the efficacy of different grow-out methods, anti-fouling techniques and grading strategies for the purpose of augmenting the production of market-size oysters grown in suspended culture in Baie St-Simon in northern New Brunswick. They are documenting the annual shell growth of various size classes using individually-labeled oysters deployed in various systems American Oyster growth including floating bags, oyster tables, OysterGro cages and Dark Sea trays. In addition, the team is evaluating the effectiveness of brine dip- ping and/or air exposure for eliminating various fouling organisms including oyster spat, barnacles, mussels and boring sponge. Work is also being done to evaluate three grading strategies for oysters larger than 50-mm. The three methods are mechanical grad- ing in spring (mid-June 2008), mechanical grading in fall (mid-Sep- tember 2007), and no grading where oysters were left in bags and fouling organisms were eliminated via bag flipping/brine dipping.

Duration: Apr ‘07 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: L’Étang Ruisseau Bar Ltd. Project team: Marie-Hélène Thériault (DFO), André Mallet (L’Étang Ruisseau Bar Ltd.) For information contact: Marie-Hélène Thériault ([email protected]) OysterGro cages temporarily upside-down for eliminating fouling organisms Do New Brunswick biofouling control methods impact oyster productivity? In New Brunswick, the farming of eastern oysters susceptible to other fouling organisms, such as the industry consists of briefly exposing fouled (Crassostrea virginica) is mainly carried out us- barnacles (Semibalanus balanoides, Balanus balanus, bags (containing oysters) to heat (50 - 80oC). ing floating Vexar® bags. This technique allows Balanus crenatus), wrinkled rock borers (Hiatella for easy access to stocks, reduces predation, and arctica), and wild oysters. Fouling organisms grow Duration: Jun ‘08 – Aug ‘10 promotes growth by maintaining the oysters in rapidly during summer, compete for the same Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: NBPSGA relatively warm and phytoplankton-rich surface food resources as oysters, and ultimately obstruct waters. water flow. Project team: Luc Comeau (DFO), Elise Mayrand (U Moncton), Nonetheless, floating bags are vulnerable to Growers mitigate the biofouling problem by Tina Rousselle (DFO), Léon Lanteigne, Maurice Daigle (Aqua- fouling organisms and researchers in this proj- exposing bags to air for three days, a desiccation culture Acadienne Ltee.). ect are investigating whether biofouling control approach that is quite labor-intensive. Another For information contact: Luc Comeau methods such as desiccation and heat exposure mitigation measure presently being developed by ([email protected]) significantly impact oyster productivity. Bags provide a good recruitment substrate for wild mussel larvae (Mytilus edulis). They are also

Oyster bag fouled with mussels Hot water bath for control of biofouling organisms. Conveyor belt drives Vexar® bags in hot water.

30 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH

Cockle (Photo: CSR) BC project works out cockle hatchery Floating oyster bags in New Brunswick production techniques

There is significant interest in the commercial cultivation of the basket cockle Can culture density be increased (Clinocardium nuttalli) within British Columbia. This is due to several factors, including its relatively fast growth rate, its ability to utilize various substrata, for oysters in New Brunswick? its adaptation to grow and survive in the cold waters of the coast of BC and , and its importance as a preferred First Nations’ food group. In New Brunswick, oysters are primarily grown in floating Vexar® bags attached This targeted project is designed to investigate the optimal hatchery rear- to longlines. A recent aerial survey indicated that growers deploy bags at an aver- ing conditions for this species, building on previously established work on age density of 2,000 bags per hectare. This density is strikingly low compared to broodstock conditioning and the early embryogenesis phases. other areas, such as in France where average stocking density is Research is underway into the optimal species composition and ration of reportedly 5,000 bags per hectare. microalgal cells for growth and survival of both larvae and post-larvae (up to The rationale for conducting the present investigation is based on a proactive 2 mm in length). In addition, work is being done on optimal rearing densi- strategy for shellfish management in NB, considering that the NB oyster indus- ties and rearing temperatures for both larvae and post-larvae of this species. try is still developing, and that control sites are readily available to carry out impact studies using robust designs such as BACI (Before-After-Control-Impact). Duration: April ‘07 – Jun ‘09 This project is evaluating the effects of increasing stocking densities on oyster Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: CSR-VIU productivity (e.g., shell growth) and the environment (e.g., biodeposition). In these trials, stocking densities are being increased well beyond current levels in Project team: Helen Gurney-Smith (CSR-VIU), Chris Pearce (DFO), Wenshan Liu (CSR-VIU), Don NB and the effects are being monitored over a three-year period. Tillapaugh (CSR-VIU), Andrew Dryden (Evening Cove Oysters). For information contact: Helen Gurney-Smith ([email protected])

BC project investigates conditions for optimal on-growing of the basket cockle The basket cockle, Clinocardium nuttallii, occurs on the Pacific coast of North America from San Diego to the Bering Sea. In British Columbia there is signifi- cant commercial interest in basket cockles as an aquaculture species as a result of their relatively fast growth rate, ability to utilize different substrata, adaptation to the cold waters of BC, and importance as a preferred First Nations’ food group. Researchers are investigating the optimal on-growing conditions for this spe- cies, building on previously established work on broodstock conditioning, em- bryogenesis, and hatchery development. The project combines laboratory and field-based studies on optimal on- growing conditions. Laboratory research is investigating the optimal seed rearing techniques for maximized production in the hatchery, the growth and survival of cockle seed in different substrata, and the post-settlement movement of these motile bivalves. Field studies are determining the optimal seed size, densities, season, and site for transplantation. In addition, the team is looking at optimal on-growing aquaculture husbandry methods (intertidal or off-bottom suspension culture). This project is yielding valuable recommendations for the management and sustainable production of basket cockles through the responsible development of a new native aquaculture species of cultural significance. Oyster tables in Marennes-Oléron (France)

Duration: Jun ‘08 – Mar ‘12 Duration: Aug ‘08 – Oct ‘09 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: NBPSGA Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: CSR-VIU Project team: Luc Comeau (DFO), André Mallet (Mallet Research Services Ltd.), Claire Carver, Sylvio Project team: Helen Gurney-Smith (CSR-VIU), Chris Pearce (DFO), Anya Epelbaum (CSR-VIU), Don Tilla- Doiron (NB DAA) paugh (CSR-VIU), Andrew Dryden (Evening Cove Oysters) For information contact: Luc Comeau ([email protected]) For information contact: Helen Gurney-Smith ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 31 SHELLFISH Research team assesses impacts of harvesting

There has been widespread interest in the culture of the Pacific geoduck clam (Panopea abrupta) within British Columbia for a number of years. However, the commercial-scale development of this species has been hindered by a lack of governmental policy/legislation and concerns around how geoduck culture and harvest will impact the environment. These concerns are generally focused on the harvesting pro- cess, as high-pressure water hoses (“stingers”) are used to liquefy the substratum around the clams in order to extract them. This technique is used by aquaculturists as well as the wild fishery. Researchers are assessing the effects of geoduck clam harvest on the benthic sedimentary environment, nearby eelgrass beds, and the suspended sediment concentration. In addition, they are examining how these effects vary spatially and temporally at both intertidal and subtidal study sites. The outcomes are anticipated to enable government agen- cies to make informed decisions about the potential expansion of in BC in both intertidal and subtidal sites.

Duration: Sep ‘08 – Dec ‘10 Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: BCMAL, West Coast Geoduck Research Corp., Abrupt Shellfish Inc. Project team: Chris Pearce (DFO), Wenshan Liu (CSR-VIU), Miriam O (DFO), Grant Dovey (Resource Consulting Inc.), Bruce Clapp (West Coast Geoduck Re- search Corp.), Michelle James (West Coast Geoduck Research Corp.), Sean Williams (Abrupt Shellfish Inc.) For information contact: Chris Pearce ([email protected]) Geoduck harvest impacts (Photo: DFO)

Bay of Fundy project aims to Estimating enable over-wintering of juvenile fall-off of soft-shell clams Researchers are seeking to determine the mussels optimal over-wintering techniques for juve- nile soft-shell clams in the Passamaquoddy Region. A key outcome of the project is to cultured on establish and maintain a reliable hatchery source and transport of juvenile clams for the clam industry in Southwest New Bruns- self-operating wick. The team is investigating techniques that yield the highest survival rates. They are collectors transplanting over-wintered hatchery spat to the Lepreau Harbour lease site (MS 1113) In Carleton (Chaleur Bay, Quebec), some mus- and monitoring post-seeding survivorship sel farmers are using the self-operating collec- through seasonal sampling. Pending the tor method, which consists of culturing mussels success of this technique, the project aims on collectors without adjusting the density. This to develop this technology on a larger scale results in a decrease in population density due to that can support the industrial demand. a self-thinning process. Differences in the number Over-wintering soft-shell clams in the Bay and size of mussels that fall to the bottom depend of Fundy can yield reasonably high survival on whether socks or self-operating collectors are levels (~80%) with an anchored, submerged used. floating cage system. Keeping the cages Mussel fall-off with self-operating collectors can anchored from the bottom and floating at a be calculated based on the principle of self-thin- depth of at least 15 meters from the surface ning. The necessary data are currently available in at mean low water would provide the most a publication in preparation by Lachance-Bernard stable environment and highest survival of et al.. However, there are at present two possible soft-shell clams. Over two years, mortality approaches to calculation. results from clams sampled in Lepreau Har- The goal of this project is to determine the best Biologist from Eastern Charlotte Waterways approach and to provide a preliminary estimate examining experimental clam plots for survival of the fall-off process. The requisite samples are of the over-wintering clam seed. obtained by divers in order to minimize mussel fall-off during sampling. This work is a prepara- bour lease averaged ~18.5% each year. tory stage for comparison of the ecosystem effects The result of this initial work is now of conventional suspension culture and mussel leading to work in other areas of the culture using self-operating collectors. Bay of Fundy. Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Duration: Dec ‘06 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-PARR Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: Eastern Project team: Marcel Fréchette (DFO), Linda Girard (DFO) Charlotte Waterways Inc.. Myriam Lachance-Bernard (DFO), Marine de Roumefort, Éric Project team: Shawn Robinson (DFO), Benny Bujold (Ferme maricole du Grand Large, Carleton) Travis (Eastern Charlotte Waterways Inc.), Karl For information contact: Marcel Fréchette Whelan, Jeremy Matheson, Dan McGrattan, ([email protected]) Laura Barrett, Eastern Charlotte Waterways Inc. For information contact: Shawn Robinson Photo of the experimental clam plot in Lepreau Basin, Bay of Fundy, showing the ([email protected]) netting covering the area to exclude predators from the newly planted juveniles. Notice the boot mark for scale.

32 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH

Team studies impact of Moncton team develops rapid cultured mussels and identification technique for exotic tunicates larval scallops on plankton Two species of scallop, Placo- pecten magellanicus and Chlamys islandica, are commercially communities in PEI exploited in eastern Canada. P. magellanicus is found on Ecological principles suggest that suspended mussel culture will the Atlantic coast of North have a direct influence on planktonic communities via preda- America from North Carolina tion and grazing by the mussels. A number of cascading effects to Newfoundland. C. islandica may also influence this. One recent suggestion is that mussels has a more northern distribu- will influence the size structure of the plankton. This, in turn, tion ranging from Greenland may influence the ability of exotic tunicates to establish and to Massachusetts. out-compete the farmed mussels as the tunicates may feed on Juvenile recruitment with smaller sized organisms/particles. spat collectors is used for In this study, researchers are assessing the influence of mus- stocking natural beds and for sels and/or associated tunicates on plankton community size aquaculture ventures. Collect- structure. They are placing purpose-built small mussel socks in ing sites may yield very differ- mesocosms for 1 hour periods and comparing the abundance ent proportions of P. magellani- and size-structure of the communities before and after the socks cus and C. islandica individuals. are introduced into the mesocosms and among treatments. A method for the rapid and Trials consist of mussels only, inert controls, inert controls specific quantification of each with tunicates, and mussels with tunicates. Both of the species species from a sample of larvae Ciona intestinalis and Styela clava are used independently for a would help to prevent the use total of 8 treatments. of collectors where the recruit- This work is helping to better understand the interactions ment of the preferred species between farmed mussels and invasive tunicates as well as their is not optimal. This method impact on planktonic communities. would also replace the time- consuming process of visually Duration: Apri ‘08 – Mar ‘09 identifying and counting larvae under a microscope. Funded by: CAISN Co-funded by: DFO With the use of fluorescent probes, a real-time PCR is being developed for the purpose of specifically identifying the ratio of each species in a mixed sample. The assay is being tested and Project team: Chris McKindsey (DFO), Mayi Lecuona (DFO), Mathieu Huot validated using samples collected in various areas of eastern Canada. (DFO) For information contact: Chris McKindsey ([email protected]) Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO Co-funded by: University of Moncton Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), Mark Laflamme (DFO), Monique Niles (DFO), Kynan Philippe (Undergraduate student, U Moncton) For information contact: Nellie Gagné ([email protected])

Quebec project applies novel approach to understand nutrients and mussel culture The future of aquacul- links between cultured ture is dependent upon mussels and planktonic research that leads the communities, impacted way to economically ef- directly through grazing ficient yet environment- and indirectly through ally sustainable methods altering nutrient fluxes. Mussel socks in mesocosms were used to evaluate the influence of mussels and associated exotic tunicates on plankton communities, PEI (Photo: M. of production. One In addition, they are Lecuona) approach to achieving investigating how these this goal lies in under- nutrient fluxes in turn standing and managing influence planktonic aquaculture facilities as communities which then a food-web that is em- influence the mussels. bedded in the natural, This research is expected spatially extended, mar- to have a strong influence ine ecosystem. on government policy and In cooperation with eventually translate into the mussel aquaculture novel production methods industry on the Mag- for Canadian shellfish dalen Islands, the team aquaculture. The team is conducting experi- describes their project as Simplified web of trophic relationships in mus- mental research that sel aquaculture. Grey boxes refer to research AQUAMAN: AQUAculture applies the principles of sub-projects (Credit: G. Fussman) of Mussels And Nutrients. food web and ecosystem ecology. The investiga- Duration: Sep ‘08 – Jun ‘11 tion is exploring how the flows of matter and energy across the food web can be managed Funded by: NSERC Co-funded by: DFO, SODIM, Moules de culture des Iles in a way that results in an increased produc- tion of high-quality, harvestable shellfish. Project team: Gregor Fussmann (McGill U), Philippe This approach is novel in that it goes beyond Archambault (UQAR-ISMER), Connie Lovejoy (U Laval), examining these processes at the scale of Bruno Myrand (MAPAQ), Chris McKindsey (DFO), the individual mussel. Rather, it attempts to Stéphane Plourde (DFO), Réjean Tremblay (UQAR-IS- MER), Michel Fournier (Moules de culture des Iles) understand the process of shellfish produc- tion in an ecosystem context. For information contact: Gregor Fussmann Specifically, the team is looking at the ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 33 SHELLFISH

Team develops indicators to monitor phytoplankton (Photo: DFO) depletion by mussels BC group looks for ways to improve Filter-feeding by mussels naturally results in some local reduction (depletion) of their phytoplankton food supply. If the spatial scale of phytoplankton depletion includes a sig- geoduck broodstock performance nificant fraction of the coastal inlet, this effect on the base of the marine food web raises concerns about the ecological Researchers are aiming to find which factors To quantify the effects of the various treat- costs to other components of the ecosystem. These costs can promote maximum fecundity and egg quality ments on gonad development, several indica- be used to define the “ecological carrying capacity” of the in a hatchery setting for broodstock geoduck tors are being examined for use. These include site. clams, (Panopea abrupta). They are looking at histological examination, oocyte diameters, Phytoplankton depletion was documented at mussel the effects of various temperature, salinity and gamete occupation indices, gonadosomatic in- aquaculture farms in Canada and Norway using a computer nutritional regimes on gonad development. dices, oocyte per follicle counts, and biochem- controlled, towed undulating vehicle (BIO-Acrobat) that The ranges of temperature and salinity are ical composition of gonad tissue. permitted rapid 3-D mapping of phytoplankton variations selected to reflect those typical of an estuarine over farm to coastal ecosystem scales. Intensive mussel cul- environment in British Columbia (7 to 19˚C Duration: Jan ‘06 – Mar ‘10 and 17 to 30 ppt, respectively). ture activities not only significantly affected phytoplankton Funded by: NSERC Discovery Grant. Co-funded by: DFO concentration at the coastal ecosystem scale under some Quality of nutrition is being manipulated by conditions, but also markedly altered the size of the phyto- presenting live algal feeds that vary in levels of Project team: Chris Pearce (DFO), Scott McKinley (UBC), Rob Marshall (UBC) plankton. essential fatty acids, namely docosahexaenoic Six PEI embayments were surveyed in August 2008. Re- acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). For information contact: Chris Pearce searchers found that the bays that are at the highest risk of Various rations are also being administered to ([email protected]) significant bay-wide particle depletion from mussel culture the broodstock to manipulate caloric intake. were dominated by small species (picophytoplankton; 0.2 – 2.0 µm cell diameter). These results indicate a significant destabilization of the basis of the marine food-web that can be monitored using identified indicators and ecosystem Research uncovers potential for persistence targets. Duration: Jan ‘07 – Dec ‘09 Funded by: DFO Co-funded by: NNRC (Norway) purple sea urchin culture in BC Project team: Peter Cranford (DFO), William Li (DFO), Øivind Strand (IMR Norway), Tore Strohmeier (IMR Norway) For information contact: Peter Cranford ([email protected]) Researchers attempt to get ahead of invasive tunicates in BC There are at least four species of tunicates in British Colum- bia which are non-native and potentially invasive: the solitary tunicate Styela clava (club tunicate) and the colonial tunicates Botrylloides violaceus (violet tunicate), Botryllus schlosseri (golden star tunicate), and Didemnum sp. Recent monitoring surveys have detected some of these tunicate species at a variety of shellfish culture leases and marinas around British Columbia. However, it appears that they have not had the same impact on this coast as they have in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. This raises questions about the factors control- ling invasion success and establishment. Research of basic tunicate biology and ecology is being aimed at resolving these questions. Researchers in this project are examining how survivor- Purple Sea Urchin (Photo: DFO) ship, growth, and reproduction of tunicates are affected by predation intensity and changes in environmental condi- In the development of aquaculture of any new (kelps and prepared diets) and temperature tions, such as temperature and salinity. Results from these ex- species for culture, one of the major obstacles on gonad production? What are the effects of periments should allow the team to assess the ability of these to overcome is the production of healthy different natural feeds, feed rations, densities, tunicates to invade new habitats and the threat that they may juveniles. Although information about the and temperatures on growth and survival of pose to other benthic invertebrates within the ecosystem. reproduction cycle and spawning of potential larvae? What are the effects of various natural The research should also enable development of mitigation commercial species of sea urchins is readily and artificial substrata on larval settlement and strategies to prevent further spread of these non-indigenous available, information about larval culture and metamorphosis? What are the effects of various species and the potential economic impact they may have on juvenile grow out are still scarce, especially for feeds and temperature on growth and survival the shellfish culture industry of British Columbia. the purple sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus purpu- of juveniles and adults? ratus). Duration: Aug ‘06 – Mar ‘09 As a first step to developing the purple ur- Duration: Sep ‘06 – Mar ‘10 Funded by: DFO-AIS chin as a potential new candidate for aquacul- Funded by: OSAP Co-funded by: DFO Project team: Chris Pearce (DFO), Tom Therriault (DFO), ture in British Columbia, this project is focus- Anya Epelbaum (CSR-VIU), BCSGA ing on broodstock conditioning and larval/ Project team: Chris Pearce (DFO); Scott McKinley (UBC), juvenile rearing. Kalam Azad (UBC) For information contact: Chris Pearce ([email protected]) The project is investigating four key ques- For information contact: Chris Pearce tions: What are the effects of various feeds ([email protected])

34 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH

Mussel site in Nova Scotia to validate environmental assessment and monitoring The largest single mussel aquaculture application in the Mari- times was approved in 2003 for St. Anns Harbour, NS after an extensive assessment of environmental risks and the implemen- tation of a rigorous environmental monitoring program. Now that the mussel leases are developed, an extensive environmental sampling program is being conducted to test both the environmental impact assessment predictions and the effectiveness of the environmental monitoring program design. The data collected will help to advance regulatory science and improve regulatory certainty among stakeholders. Major stake- holders are jointly coordinating this large project.

Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-PARR Project team: Peter Cranford (DFO), William Li (DFO), Brent Law (DFO), Joe Crocker (DFO), Dawn Sephton (DFO), Barry Hargrave (DFO), Toby Balch (NS Quebec project re-visits research on DFA), Robin Stewart (Bounty Bay Shellfish Inc), Jon Grant (Dalhousie U) For information contact: Peter Cranford ([email protected]) dredge harvesting of soft-shell clams

Development of genomic One of the upcom- ing aquaculture tools enable little neck activities in Quebec (and elsewhere) is the development of clams to be ecosystem soft-shell clam (and related) farming in bioindicators intertidal or shallow subtidal areas. The Often referred to as keystone species, bivalves are major impacts of this type components of coastal and estuarine ecosystems and play of work are likely to a prominent role in the development of ecosystem health be associated with indices and values, which can then be applied to ecosystems harvesting when this in general. is done by hydraulic It is well documented that stressful environmental condi- rake, as is often done tions (natural or man-made) affect aquatic animal physio- in Quebec. logical performance (e.g., growth and fecundity), health However, the and survival. Unlike finfish, for which sensitive biochemical work to date on the assays, genomic tools and visual indicators of stress are impacts of harvesting available, there are few informative and reliable tools for by hydraulic rakes bivalves. has been done in This new project is analysing and pub- Researchers in this BC project are developing genomic more dynamic systems such as environments lishing the results of this research, which is tools to aid in the study of native little neck clam responses with strong currents and coarse sediments increasingly important for understanding to environmental and anthropogenic stress factors. These and/or studies have only been done over potential impacts and possible ways to miti- tools will facilitate the use of this species as a bio-indicator very short time scales. To address this gap, gate them. in the assessment of ecosystem health and resilience in the a study was done in Quebec in 2003 to Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 presence of aquaculture operations. evaluate the impact of harvesting clams by hydraulic rakes on benthic communities in Funded by: DFO-PARR Co-funded by: DFO-ACRDP, SODIM, DFO. local conditions (sandy sediments in low Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 energy systems) as well as the recovery of the Project team: Chris McKindsey (DFO), Lizon Provencher Funded by: DFO-PARR communities. The study was done at 2 dif- (DFO), Mathieu Huot (DFO) Project team: Stewart Johnson (DFO), Terri Sutherland (DFO), ferent times of the year to evaluate temporal For information contact: Chris McKindsey Helen Gurney-Smith (CSR-VIU) differences in impacts and recovery. ([email protected]) For information contact: Stewart Johnson ([email protected]) New raft designs in the works for BC shellfish industry The goal of this project is to develop new high designs. The mass and drag of a typical oyster tray quality shellfish aquaculture raft designs for the stack has been used to develop a computer-gener- BC shellfish farming industry using state-of-the-art ated simulation of how it performs in the natural materials and techniques to enhance economic environment. profitability and environmental sustainability. Once the simulation is constructed, DSA can Vancouver Island University’s Centre for Shellfish change stresses (waves, currents, etc.), loadings Research and the BC Shellfish Growers Associa- and construction materials to see how the raft tion, together with industry members, are working performs. Optimal designs will then be developed with Dynamic Systems Analysis (DSA) to develop and different construction materials will be tested these new designs. to determine an optimum cost benefit ratio. Through computer simulations, Ryan Nicoll of DSA is able to anticipate problems and identify Duration: Aug ‘08 – Mar ‘09 successes with different raft design components and materials. Once suitable designs have been Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: CSR-VIU, experts, and stakeholders. selected, the CSR will fabricate and test prototypes at the Deep Bay Field Station. A final report will Project team: Brian Kingzett (CSR-VIU), David McCallum be prepared including construction plans for the (BCSGA), Stellar Bay Shellfish, Barr Plastics, Seaco Marine, industry. CSR-VIU, UVic Innovation and Development Corporation Work has been done on the preliminary stages For information contact: Brian Kingzett Preliminary simulations. Each string represents the mass and drag of a in the simulations. Information has been pro- ([email protected]) typical oyster tray stack. vided by industry on the current most typical raft Website: PbWiki site, contact [email protected] for access

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 35 SHELLFISH DFO team updates southern gulf of St. Lawrence region shellfish monitoring network

The shellfish aquaculture industry has grown significantly over the last decades and has become an important part of the economy in eastern Canada. Concurrently, the Habitat Protec- tion and Sustainable Development (HPSD) section is required, under the Fisheries Act and the Canadian Environmental Assess- ment Act (CEAA), to conduct environmental risk assessments of these activities on the marine habitat. They need scientific advice that will provide them with efficient tools and indicators that will enable them to respond adequately to these require- ments. One concern is in the potential effect of increasing the shell- fish biomass on the carrying capacity of estuaries. A proposed tool to address this issue is the Shellfish Monitoring Network (SMN) which is based on a standardized method that measures the productivity of a sentinel species, such as the American oyster, as an ecosystem indicator. This method of examining the SMN Coverage spatial and temporal variations in shellfish pro- ductivity has been conducted in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence region on an experiment- al level since 1995. This project is focused on the consolidation of the data collected through the SMN. The strengths and weaknesses of this tool are being analysed in the context of the current HPSD requirements. On the basis of this analysis, the requirements for a long-term and sustainable SMN are being designed.

Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-PARR Project team: Marc Ouellette (DFO), Luc Comeau (DFO), Guy Robichaud (DFO) For information contact: Marc Ouellette ([email protected]) www.glf.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/os/smn-rmm/index-e.php Oyster Condo Fouling Productivity improvement through mechanization and automation of operations

Quebec mussel growers have observed (CTPA) is measuring the impact of har- that significant mussel losses can occur vesting using this system on the commer- during harvesting of commercial-sized cial characteristics of marketed mussels mussels, especially during summer. – the incidence of gaping, broken shells, SODIM’s mariculture engineer and the product uniformity, and shelf life. Halieutec Inc. team are investigating Other related parts of this major proj- a harvesting system developed in the ect are also underway. These include de- Netherlands that uses the venturi effect. velopment of a cleaner for floating line A technology transfer mission was there- buoys. Another product of the project is fore organized to Ireland, where some a system to avoid tangling of the cords of mussel growers have adopted this system. submerged lines in order to avoid work A venturi system was acquired and stoppages during water operations. Scal- modifications begun, including replacing lop farms in Quebec are also now testing the original 8-inch diameter harvesting scallop production using the ear-hanging pipe with a 10-inch one, which was neces- technique. Finally, a hydraulic rake is be- sary because of the size of the socks used ing developed to reduce manpower costs in Quebec mussel farms. Halieutec then and increase the efficiency of harvesting determined the extent of the reduction soft-shell clams. in losses due to mussel fall‑off as well as the time saved in harvesting mussel spat Duration: Jul ‘08 – Mar ‘10 and commercial-sized mussels. The results obtained during sea trials Funded by: EPAQ Co-funded by: DFO-AIMAP, Québec shellfish producers conducted in the summer of 2008 are encouraging. Harvesting can be carried Project team: Sylvain Lafrance (SODIM), out 3.5 times faster compared to the con- Robert Vaillancourt (SODIM), Marie-Joëlle Leblanc veyor system, though further trials are (Halieutec Inc.) necessary to validate these results. For information contact: Sylvain Lafrance Concurrent with these trials, another ([email protected]) project conducted by MAPAQ’s Centre Website: http://www.sodim.org/ Technologique des Produits Aquatiques

36 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH

Quebec mussel growers see development of farm management software on the horizon

At present, shellfish farmers have no 2009 for use in the coming production effective computer tools to manage season. In addition a team consisting their mariculture equipment and mol- of a statistician and a shellfish culture lusc stocks. This project is designing expert plan to establish a reliable software to manage the shellfish farm- protocol for sampling shellfish farms ing equipment and operations (long in order to evaluate the biomass in lines and mussel socks) used in mussel production. The results of this sampling culture, whether in continuous or tradi- will be processed using a computer tool tional socks or on long lines. compatible with the shellfish equip- The software is designed to be user- ment management software in order to friendly and operational on a Windows incorporate the results. PC or Mac OS. The mussel farmers’ requirements for this software include Duration: Jun ‘08 – Mar ‘09 entry of the data necessary to support software functions and consideration of Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: MAPAQ, SODIM, Moules Forillon the type of paper reports generated that can be used by workers at sea for guid- Project team: Sylvain Lafrance (SODIM), Stéphane ance in their work. The programming Morissette (Moules Forillon), Nathalie Méthot is object-oriented so that it is possible to (Gescode), Robert Vaillancourt (SODIM) add additional modules. For information contact: Sylvain Lafrance The software package, accompanied ([email protected]) by training for shellfish farmers, is be- Website: http://www.sodim.org/ ing delivered to the industry in March

Algal photo-bioreactor boosts productivity of shellfish hatchery in New Brunswick

The New Brunswick shellfish company, Integrating the Brite-Box, an algal L’Étang Ruisseau Bar Ltd, has selected photo-bioreactor, into this facility is key the northern bay scallop (Argopecten irra- to achieving the desired reliability and dians irradians) as a means of diversifying economic viability essential to the opera- its product base. Research between 2001 tion of a commercial hatchery. This and 2005 focusing on improving field development will allow the company to production performance led to a pro- augment their annual revenues by 10- tocol that yielded market-size scallops 20% and promote the diversification of (>52 mm) within one growing season. the New Brunswick shellfish industry. The company is currently developing a hatchery-nursery and a wet holding Duration: Oct ‘08 – Aug ‘09 facility in Shippagan, New Brunswick Production of oyster spat in a in order to produce bay scallop seed Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: ACOA, NB DFA, NRC-IRAP, SRD and hold product for the winter sales. natural environment, Phase 1: This hatchery facility will also be used Project team: André Mallet (L’Étang Ruisseau Bar to implement a genetic improvement Ltd), Claire Carver (Carver Marin Consulting), program for the American oyster Sylvie Gauvin (L’Étang Ruisseau Bar Ltd.) tests of cup-collectors (Crassostrea virginica). For information contact: André Mallet ([email protected]) The project tested an adaptation of the French technique, cups, for the collection and production of oyster spat. It is being adapted to the circumstances in Eel Lake Oyster Farm’s New Brunswick in order to mechanize the opera- anti-fouling device tion and reduce produc- tion costs. Eel Lake Oyster Farm, under the direction of Nolan D’Eon (owner/operator), is Collection tests were developing an environmentally-friendly machine to eradicate invasive species in the carried out in Bouc- oyster industry. Currently, there is a problem that needs to be addressed due to the touche, NB and Caraquet, NB to evaluate the performance of the new increasing invasive species in the waters of Eel Lake, Yarmouth county, Nova Scotia. collector. The tests confirmed that the technique improves the produc- The project is exploring using the current water table and a heating method to tivity of collection and the mechanization of operations. In addition it control invasive species without the use of pesticides or toxins. is making it possible to address key constraints for establishing a sorting strategy that would select the individuals most likely to grow successfully. Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Duration: Jul ‘08 – Feb ‘09 Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: Eel Lake Oyster Farm Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Project team: Nolan D’Eon, Colton D’Eon, Clark D’Eon (all from Eel Lake Oyster Farm) Project team: Léon Lanteigne, Alain Landry, Emmanuel Mallet, Onile Lanteigne, Jules Lanteigne, (all from 638131 NB Inc.), Maurice Daigle (Aquaculture Acadienne Ltée) For information contact: Nolan D’Eon ([email protected]) For information contact: Léon Lanteigne ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 37 SHELLFISH

New Brunswick maturation facility for shellfish to be the first of its kind in North America

A multifunctional, closed-loop storage facility for shellfish is in development in New Brunswick, the first of its kind in North America. Taking advantage of new technology developed in France, the project sponsors are building the infrastructure to store shellfish while making it possible to decontaminate the product and maintain the health of coastal areas. This approach ensures that market supplies are maintained during critical periods in order to take advantage of the globalized market for BeauSoleil oysters. In addition, this project is ex- pected to enable fish regulations to be more flexible while certification ensures the health of the product.

Duration: Aug ‘08 – Mar ‘10 Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: ACOA, Province of NB, BNB Project team: Amédée Savoie (Maison Beau- soleil), Léon Lanteigne (Maison Beausoleil), Armand Lejeune (EMYG Aquaculture), Brian Blanchard

For information contact: Amédée Savoie ([email protected])

Improved hydraulic New Brunswick oyster system helps to automate operation improves mussel operations in biofouling control Based on the strong results from the first phase Newfoundland in 2007, which evaluated the biological feasi- bility of using scalding in a boiling water bath Blue mussel seed collection, stripping, grading, and socking to control biofouling, Vienneau Aquaculture operations are the most costly and labour intensive activities sought to establish a procedure to integrate this on mussel farms in Newfoundland and Labrador. Seeds are operation into its oyster-culture activities. handled multiple times and are stored on working platforms The project was also designed to perfect a for extended periods of time while individual pieces of scalding system in order to improve the ef- equipment are installed and removed. fectiveness of this new approach to controlling Typically, each piece of equipment has its own hydrau- biofouling. The results were conclusive but lics package to power the equipment. A more efficient new revealed some production constraints related hydraulics system would have the oil capacity to operate to the silting or deposition of oysters within the multiple hydraulic motors at any given time. This would culture structures which are currently being enable automation of the seeds collection to seeds socking addressed. operation and significantly reduce the cost of production for mussel farmers. Duration: Jul ‘08 – Mar ‘09 Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: NBDAA, BNB Duration: Jul ‘08 – Oct ‘08 Project team: Paul Vienneau (Vienneau Aquaculture Inc.), Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Léon Lanteigne (638131 NB Inc.), Alain Landry Project team: Gilbert Simms (LBA Enterprises Ltd), John Pelly Jr. (638131 NB Inc.) (Western Hydraulics), Scott Simms (LBA Enterprises Ltd.) For information contact: Paul Vienneau For information contact: Gilbert Simms (Phone: (709) 267-5121, ([email protected] Fax: (709) 267-5121)

vival rate was 100% for all treatment groups. EPA, Researchers find best algal diet to yield optimum DHA and ARA values were significantly higher in the NANNO+PAV treatment group and lowest in the essential fatty acid profile in European oysters TETRA+ACTIN treatment group (P<0.001). Therefore, the best algal diet in culturing Euro- pean oysters is a mixture of Nannochloropsis oculata Algal EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosa- The algal combinations tested were: Chaeto- and Pavlova lutheri, creating a better growth rate hexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid) are ceros muelleri and Isochrysis galbana (CHGRA+T. and a higher level of polyunsaturated fatty acids for essential in the diet of aquaculture organisms. This ISO), Tetraselmis striata and Thalassiosira weissfloggii consumers. project is investigating the type of algal diet that (TETRA+ACTIN), and Nannochloropsis oculata and yields the optimum fatty acid profile in European Pavlova lutheri (NANNO+PAV). oysters. The were grown in optimum condi- Duration: Sep ‘07 – Sep ‘08 Ostrea edulis juveniles were fed with combina- tions. Fatty acid profiles of algae and juvenile oysters Funded by: NSAC. tions of microalgal diets to determine the effect were analyzed. A very highly significant difference Project team: Jesse Ronquillo (NSAC), Jamie Fraser (NSAC), on growth, survival and fatty acid profiles of these (P<0.0001) was found in the growth rate of the Audrie-Jo McConkey (NSAC) oysters. Juvenile oysters from a shellfish hatchery oysters. The best growth rate was observed in the For information contact: Jesse Ronquillo ([email protected]) were laboratory-reared in 15-L static tanks with three NAN+PAV treatment group. The treatment group replicates for each treatment. with lowest growth rate was TETRA+ACTIN. Sur-

38 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH

Newfoundland project makes progress on oyster nursery culture The Canadian Center for Fisheries Innovation and Badger Bay Mussel Farms are continuing efforts to develop the potential for oyster culture in Newfoundland. Previous projects have been successful with respect to condi- tioning and spawning of the oyster broodstock. Fertilization was also successful, although fertilization rates were low and larval survival was poor. During the past projects, protocols have been established for most stages of oyster aquaculture and success has been proven. All these protocols have been developed in stages. Oysters are a non-native species and are considered incapable of spawning in Newfoundland due to colder water temperatures so seed must be obtained from a hatchery supplier. In May 2008, 160,000 spat were transferred from the Ship- pagan Hatchery to the Marine Institute, followed by another shipment of 200,000 spat. The spat were graded and added to upwellers where they were fed until they reached 3 - 5 mm in size. The goal was to deploy the spat in Placentia Bay for the nurs- Aaron Ramsay (Researcher) completing environmental monitoring. (Photo: AVC & PEIAA) ery phase of the project in the late fall. However due to unex- pected delays the deployment will now take place in the spring of 2009. Major PEI project develops Duration: 2008 – 2009 techniques and strategies to Funded by: CCFI Project team: Chris Dawe (MI), Chris Brown (NRC), Marc Kielley (CCFI) For information contact: Marc Kielley ([email protected]) manage invasive tunicates Website: http://www.ccfi.ca/ Sustainable and efficient methods of manag- products. Researchers have been analyzing ing invasive tunicate species are needed in the marine samples that do not show any fouling PEI Aquaculture Industry. Invasive tunicates because they may contain a natural product are solitary (Styela clava and Ciona intestinalis) that deters the settlement of tunicate larvae. and colonial (Botrylloides violaceus and Botryllus The work on different tunicate treatments Natural zooplankton- schlosseri). involves field work and direct collaboration The PEI Aquaculture Alliance has been col- with PEI mussel growers. The efforts include laborating with the University of Prince Edward the development of new treatments for the mit- based diet to increase Island on a four-year Atlantic Innovation Fund igation of tunicates, the delivery of mitigation project to address the tunicates at three differ- agents to mussel socks, and the development of ent levels: detection, prevention and treatment. lease and bay level mitigation strategies. survival rates of Monitoring and detection are essential to the management of aquatic invasive species. Duration: Jun ‘07 – Jun ‘11 The detection work proposes to develop a lobster larvae diagnostic kit using tunicate genetic material Funded by: ACOA-AIF Co-funded by: PEIAA, UPEI, PEI Atlantic Shrimp Co. Inc., AFRI, PEI-DFARD, DFO Enriching lobster to identify different tunicate life stages in sea larvae with polyun- water samples. Project team: PEIAA, Russ Kerr (UPEI), Jeff Davidson (UPEI), Ahmed Siah (UPEI) saturated fatty acids The goal of the prevention work is to devel- obtained from a diet op an environmentally sound and sustainable For information contact: Linda Duncan of natural zooplank- anti-fouling agent derived from marine natural ([email protected]) ton could improve their survival, and enhance their cryp- tic behaviour and Quebec project finds means to reduce their flight behav- iour when faced with predators’ mussel depuration costs in Gaspe Bay odours. Researchers are Gaspe Bay, an ideal mussel growing area, is subject to periodic contamination, especially after finding that feed heavy rains. The result is that mussels have to go through a costly depuration process. based on nat- Lobster larva (Photo: M.L. Beaudin) Experiments conducted in 2002 showed that using seawater can account for as much as ural zooplankton 26% of the total depuration cost at a rate of 50 L/min for 225 kg of bulk mussels, which trans- produces a higher accumulation of polyunsaturated fatty acids lates into $0.81 per net kilo. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency currently accepts 40 L/ in the lipid membranes of the larvae. They suggest that this min. Reducing the flow rate could lower these costs. enrichment of the cellular membranes encourages an increased Trials were conducted in systems supplied with continuously circulating seawater where activity of the ionic enzymes that lead to the establishment of temperatures varied from 5°C to 8°C in compliance with the Canadian Shellfish Sanitation osmoregulation. Program (CSSP) standards governing treatment water quality. The osmoregulation process in lobster larvae is established One working hypothesis was that oxygen is more soluble in cold water. Consequently, us- during the transition from the pelagic phase to the benthic ing a slower water flow rate at these temperatures should not create an oxygen deficit. Two phase and can bring about a more rapid installation of the larva trials were conducted in water at 8°C flowing at 20 L/min and two trials were conducted in on sea bottom, which can lead to improved cryptic behaviour water at 5°C (20 and 30 L/min). and better chances of surviving predators. To test their hypoth- Results showed that a flow rate of 20 L/min at temperatures around 8°C in the fall was esis, the establishment of osmoregulation in larvae fed different unacceptable. The CSSP minimum standard for percentage of dissolved oxygen in treatment diets is being related to various behavioural measurements. water could not be met in the water exiting any of these tanks. A flow rate of 30 L/min would be acceptable in 5°C water where dissolved oxygen in those tanks was often higher than 60%. Duration: 2007 – 2009 Funded by: MAPAQ. Co-funded by: RAQ Duration: Apr ‘06 – Mar ‘09 Project team: Rejean Tremblay (ISMER-UQAR), Simona Motnikar (CAMGR-MA- Funded by: DIT-MAPAQ PAQ), Louise Gendron (DFO), Marie-Lou Beaudin (ISMER-UQAR), Sonia Belvin Project team: Francis Coulombe (CTPA-MAPAQ), Nathalie Moisan (CAMGR-MAPAQ), Michel Girard (MAPAQ-UQAR), Fabrice Pernet (IFREMER-Sète) (CAMGR-MAPAQ), Marcel Roussy (CAMGR-MAPAQ), Cathy Cauvier (CAMGR-MAPAQ) For information contact: Rejean Tremblay ([email protected]) For information contact: Francis Coulombe ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 39 SHELLFISH Magdalen Islands open-water mussel rearing proves successful

A study conducted from 2002 to 2007 to determine the parameters for open water mussel production on the Magdalen Islands (Gulf of St. Law- rence) led the way to the establish- ment of a commercial mussel produc- tion. The chosen site, where the water is 19 m deep, lies 7 km from a fishing harbour. The results of this study are very encouraging. There were no conflicts between users. No rearing structures were lost throughout the lifespan of Deployment of collectors by La moule du large inc. (Photo: F. Bourque) Suspended sand-filled box used for softshell clam pre-grow-out on the the study. Spat collection was abun- Magdalen Islands (Photo: M. Déraspe) dant and recurrent. Mussels reached hectare site located next to the experimental commercial size in one year after being socked. site. The first commercially produced mussels Sand boxes prove to be ideal Commercial yield exceeded 6 kg/m. Cooked are expected to be marketed in 2009. meat yield was greater than 40% even after for nursery boosting of juvenile spawning. Mussels withstood post-harvest Duration: Jun ‘02 – Mar ‘08 treatment well despite having shells about 35% Funded by: DIT-MAPAQ Co-funded by: MAPAQ, SODIM, clams in Magdalen Islands lighter than mussels reared in sheltered envi- CED ronments such as lagoons. Experience acquired on the Magdalen Islands shows that These encouraging results led to the estab- Project team: François Bourque (MAPAQ), Bruno Myrand clams must measure at least 25 mm when seeded to ob- lishment of a new company and since 2007, La (CeMIM-MAPAQ) tain the best results. Collected clams measure 8 to 9 mm moule du large Inc. has been operating a 183- For information contact: François Bourque on average when gathered in the fall. Although they grow ([email protected]) somewhat while over-wintering, they still measure only 9 to 10 mm the following spring. Moreover, a significant percentage of wild clams har- vested for transfer to seeding beds are smaller than 25 mm. Research tool is adapted to Consequently, juvenile clam supply strategies call for a pre- grow-out phase prior to seeding. measure scallop vitality The MIM program and the aquaculture site ‘Élevage de myes PGS Noël’ have investigated a number of approaches Maintaining animals in ensure the device not only to solve this problem. The most promising is a sand-filled conditions conducive to meets the needs of scallop box suspended in the water column in which clams grew maximum production and producers but also pro- twice as fast as clams in the other systems investigated: a ensuring their survival vides reliable and repro- FLUPSY and floating bags. and growth is essential to ducible data. The main The clams grew as much as 1.04 mm on average per success in aquaculture. adaptation is the use of a week in the sand-filled boxes, reaching an average size of But the industry lacks plastic rod to replicate the 25 mm by fall. In addition, 85% to 90% of the young clams simple, quick and afford- effect of the star fish on were recovered at the end of the growing season. able operational stress the scallop. There are a number of advantages to this approach. The indicators to assess health. The vitality data has young clams, fossorial bivalves, are placed in optimal grow- So MAPAQ researchers been continuously record- ing conditions. Furthermore, the boxes suspended in the joined forces with their ed since 2004 and is identi- water column never emerge from the water so the clams can counterparts at Réseau fying the variables to be feed without interruption. Finally, they are sheltered from Aquaculture Québec and considered when conduct- endo- and epi-benthic predators. All that now remains to be French Research Institute ing a simplified analysis. done is to develop this pre-grow-out system for commercial- for Exploration of the Sea The threshold limit values scale use. (IFREMER) of France to of these variables for identify simple methods, healthy individuals are Duration: Apr ‘07 – Mar ‘09. based on behavioural indicators, which can be also being determined. A modified haemostatic Funded by: DIT-MAPAQ Co-funded by: CED, MDEIE, SODIM, used to assess the vitality of sea scallops. clamp is being used to measure the vitality of CLD-Îles-de-la-Madeleine. Their work led to the development of a tool scallops as small as 10 cm. Project team: Bruno Myrand (CeMIM-MAPAQ), Lise Chevarie that effectively measures scallop vitality. Held (ISMER-UQAR), Réjean Tremblay (ISMER-UQAR) in an aquarium supplied with recirculating Duration: 2004 – 2009 For information contact: Bruno Myrand ([email protected]) seawater, a dynamometer measures the muscu- lar strength and reactions of a scallop when it Funded by: DIT-MAPAQ is exposed to a . This technique is used Project team: Madeleine Nadeau (CeMIM-MAPAQ), Xavier New blanching technique yields primarily in research projects, and needs to be Jansoone (UL), Helga Guderley, (UL) adapted for use in commercial operations. For information contact: Madeleine Nadeau MAPAQ and Université Laval researchers ([email protected]) high benefits for Newfoundland are working together to address this need, and IQF mussel products transfers. It is therefore critical that the indus- A Newfoundland project is determining the market acceptance Quebec research try have as much information as possible on and commercial opportunity of a new blanching technique for this subject in order to develop field protocols whole in shell ready to eat IQF mussels. A pilot scale production assesses ecological that would be considered satisfactory in the line is being set up with Golden Shell Fisheries at their Portugal context of the DFO risk assessment process in Cove processing plant. the event that undesirable species are present There are expected to be significant and immediate benefits risk of spat transfers at a supply site chosen by the industry. The objective of this study is to identify and of this innovative system over the existing vacuum packing sys- The risk of transfer of undesirable species tem. This technique is reducing production costs while requir- more effectively assess the ecological health potentially associated with transferred spat is risks associated with transfers of wild spat from ing less packaging. It promises greater versatility for producing currently the main reason for DFO’s refusal to ready-prepared marketable products such as mussels glazed in mussels, sea scallops and clams and to propose allow transfers in Quebec. However, security methods for mitigating this risk. beer, wine or natural juices. In addition, there is no restriction of the spat supply continues to be a critical on pack sizes for retail or food service and the cooking and factor for Quebec mariculture operations and freezing container is designed for repeated use. sometimes depends directly on the approval of Duration: Apr ‘07 – Mar ‘08 transfer requests. Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: SODIM, Duration: Aug ‘08 – Nov ‘08 Better knowledge of the ecological risk as- UQAR-ISMER, Funded by: DFO-AIMAP Co-funded by: Newfoundland Organic Seafoods sociated with these transfers and field protocols Project team: Chris McKindsey (DFO) designed to minimize the risk of introduction Project team: David Walsh, Tom Stephens, Bob Hardy, Pat O’Neill, Eric Coombs For information contact: Chris McKindsey of undesirable species from spat supply sites ([email protected]) For information contact: David Walsh ([email protected]) would help minimize the risk posed by these

40 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 SHELLFISH

Quebec project shows probiotics improve scallop larval culture Scallops are cultivated in hatcheries on a commercial scale, but development of the industry has been slowed by massive larval mortality. Researchers have es- tablished that opportunistic bacteria in the water are the primary cause of the observed larval mortality. Four genera of bacteria, Pseudomonas, Alteromonas, Aeromonas and Vibrio, are considered to be responsible for this phenomenon with Vibrio being the most frequently observed. Solving these problems may lead to the establishment of a more viable com- mercial industry. The use of antibiotics in larval ponds might improve the situ- ation. However, their use is restricted because of the risks to human health, Finding optimum tempera- the emergence of resistant bacteria, and transfers of resistant genes to bac- An antibiogram, testing the effect of potential probiotic bacteria teria that have never been in contact on the pathogenic bacteria, Vibrio aestuarianus. (Photo: M.L. ture extends holding time with the antibiotic. Beaudin) The use of probiotics, defined as for lobsters in the market a microbial additive with a beneficial effect on the host, could make it possible to prevent diseases in mollusc hatcheries. After testing more than a dozen possible probiotic bacteria, What is the best temperature for maintaining live lobster for an one has been identified to be particularly effective in acting on the four strains of pathogenic extended period while ensuring that meat quality would be ac- bacteria. ceptable for consumers? Temperature plays an important role in the biological condition of lobsters held for prolonged periods Duration: 2007 – 2010 and its effect can be determined by assessing total blood protein Funded by: MDEIE Co-funded by: RAQ levels, and physiological processes like moulting, egg extrusion in females and mortality. Project team: Rejean Tremblay (ISMER-UQAR), Ismail Fliss (UL), Marie-Lou Beaudin (ISMER-UQAR), In summer 2007, 157 male and female lobsters were held Bertrand Génard (ISMER-UQAR), Jean-Louis Nicolas (IFREMER-Brest) for an extended period in tanks supplied with seawater. Tanks For information contact: Rejean Tremblay ([email protected]) holding water at 5°C, 10°C and ambient, uncooled temperatures (varying from 11°C to 17°C) were used for the study. The results confirmed that the health of lobsters is con- Mussels spat supply dietary deficiency in es- nected to the environmental conditions in which they are held. sential elements appears It is difficult to keep physiological conditions stable at tempera- to result in a low rate of tures varying from 11.2°C to 17.4°C. To maintain meat quality, may be influenced by successful metamorpho- it is advantageous to slow the natural changes that result from sis into juveniles. Thus, prolonged holding. plankton fluctuations in poor synchronization of The optimum temperature seems to be 10°C since relatively microalgae blooms and high protein levels, which are an indicator of good health in lob- the Magdalen Islands mussel larva develop- ster, can be maintained. Little variation is observed in protein Pediveliger larva of ment might be one cause concentration, which indicates that physiological processes and Work carried out in the lagoons of the Îles-de- mussels (Mytilus edulis) of the geographic and stress are fairly well controlled. It also appears that males are la-Madeleine shows some stability in the quan- (Photo: N. Toupoint) temporal variations in the best candidates for prolonged holding since they are not as tity of organic material present in the water the harvest success rate. affected by temperature variations as females. In addition, water during the larval cycle of the mussels. But re- Researchers in this project are attempting taken from the sea at 17°C to 10°C is less costly than cooling it cent investigations reveal that the primary diet to verify whether variations in mussel harvests to 5°C. comes from microzooplankton (small ciliate- in these lagoons may be caused by a mismatch type organisms less than 20 µm). Microalgae, between the larval requirements and the qual- on the other hand, only dominate the mussel’s ity of nutrients available. Duration: May ‘07 – Mar ‘09 diet on a few occasions over the summer. Funded by: MAPAQ Co-funded by: RPPGR Yet, these microalgae are essential for the Duration: 2007 – 2010 ontogenic development of the larvae. The mi- Project team: Nathalie Moisan (MAPAQ), Cathy Cauvier (MAPAQ), Francis Cou- Funded by: MAPAQ Co-funded by: RAQ lombe (CTPA-MAPAQ), Simona Motnikar (CAMGR-MAPAQ), Johanie Cauvier croalgae are rich in long-chain polyunsaturated (CAMGR-MAPAQ), Dorothée Mitchell (DFO), Jean Lavallée (UPEI-AVC), Sophie fatty acids while the microzooplankton contain Project team: Rejean Tremblay (ISMER-UQAR), Nicolas Tou- Gauthier-Clerc (ISMER-UQAR) weak-chain monosaturated fatty acids. point (ISMER-MAPAQ), Bruno Myrand (CeMIM-MAPAQ), Frédéric Olivier (CRESCO), Fabrice Pernet (IFREMER-Sète) For information contact: Nathalie Moisan ([email protected]) Therefore, an overabundance of micro- zooplankton might be one cause of the slow For information contact: Rejean Tremblay ontogenic development of mussel larvae. This ([email protected])

report was prepared for each of these Hydrodynamic modeling of longlines in Quebec leads parameters. The requirements also included to new software program for industry developing a new software program, in collaboration with the National Re- In 2001, the Regroupement des mari- the lack of accurate data for a number strength of the anchors and elasticity search Council of Canada (NRC). The culteurs du Québec (RMQ) commis- of the parameters used in the model. of the ropes). final version of this software was deliv- sioned the consulting firm Biorex Inc. In addition, this software did not take A second contract was therefore ered to SODIM in June 2008. A copy of to identify possible improvements to into consideration the shape of the awarded to Biorex Inc. with the the NRC software program is avail- the subsurface longlines used to rear continuous socks or how sock configu- general objective of conducting new able in each of the three mariculture shellfish in Quebec and to determine ration changes due to current effects. numerical simulations using more ac- regions in Quebec through frontline the design criteria for an optimal The accuracy of the simulation curate data for the modelling param- technical support officers. longline. As part of this contract, results could be significantly improved eters. Several surveys were carried out Duration: Sep ‘05 – Aug ‘08 a simulation software program was if more accurate data were available on by the team of consultants to charac- Funded by: SODIM Co-funded by: MAPAQ developed to help industry improve the environmental characteristics of terize in detail the longlines, currents MDEIE the configuration of their subsurface the rearing sites (particularly current and waves as well as the hydrodynam- longlines based on rearing site charac- velocity), the submerged mass of the ics at the main mariculture sites, the Project team: Robert Vaillancourt (SODIM), Pierre teristics. rearing media and the mechanical strength of the various types of anchors Bergeron (Biorex Inc.) However, it became evident that properties of the various components and, finally, the strength of the ropes For information contact: Robert Vaillancourt the main limitation of this software was (drag coefficient due to fouling, tensile used. A separate characterization ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 41 SHELLFISH Miscellaneous Researchers work to improve quality of hatchery-reared lobster larvae The decline of lobster Stage IV is a critical (Homarus americanus) land- stage for lobster, because ings in the southwestern the larva is transitioning Gulf of St. Lawrence (swG- from a pelagic to benthic SL) has led some fishers’ lifestyle. Good physiological groups to develop larval conditions, combined with or juvenile lobster release appropriate lipid reserves, programs to complement will give the larva a certain existing conservation advantage for adapting measures. However, there to its new lifestyle. These is no point in producing indices have never been Stage IV lobster larvae if developed in larval H. BioCage to control fish farm they cannot survive in the americanus and are key to natural environment after the advancement of re- escapees through genetically- being released. search into the production To address this prob- of high-quality larvae with engineered nutritional lem and achieve its Stage IV lobster production a good chance of successful release into the objectives, Homarus Inc. (a branch of the Mari- natural environment. requirement time Fishermen’s Union) established a research A unique study (BioCage) taking place at Laval University partnership with the Coastal Zones Research Duration: 2004 – 2010 Institute (CZRI) in April 2002. in Quebec is looking at a novel way to prevent long-term While the zootechnical aspects have now Funded by: Homarus Inc., NRC-IRAP Co-funded by: NBIF, survival of escaped cultured fish. This would effectively NB DAA –Total Development Fund been mastered, the nutritional aspect remains prevent interactions with wild populations of the same or problematic. The primary objective is to find Project team: Dounia Daoud (CZRI), Rémy Haché (CZRI), related species, and establishment of feral populations an appropriate alternative to live feed pro- Yves Hébert (CZRI), Claude Landry (CZRI), Caroline Rous- in areas where they are not native. While there has been duction, which entails very high labour costs. sel (CZRI), Steven Mallet (CZRI), Rémy Benoit, Martin Mal- relatively little demonstrated problem to date with escaped Larval lobster production relies heavily on the let (Homarus Inc.), Michel Comeau (DFO), Sébastien Plante salmon, concerns will inevitably grow as more alien species (UMonctonSC), Gilles Miron (U Moncton) use of live feed (brine shrimp). However, live are added to the aquaculture repertoire. Global warming feed production can account for up to 50% of For information contact: Dounia Daoud is also likely to increase the risk of warm-water fish surviv- hatchery operating costs during the first few ([email protected]) ing and breeding unchecked in northern areas where they months of production. This factor limits the Website www.irzc.umcs.ca formerly would not have survived. commercial production of many marine spe- cies, including lobster. Project seeks alternatives to live algae for American oyster larvae production Larval production techniques in American After much testing, our preliminary oyster (Crassostrea virginica) hatcheries have results are encouraging. They indicate that it now been mastered. Rates of survival, growth, will be possible to reduce algae production in metamorphosis and particularly larval attach- hatcheries by at least 50% over the medium ment vary depending on the quality of the term. diet. An appropriate diet therefore allows lar- The overall objective of this project is vae to better tolerate production conditions first to reduce production costs in order to and to build up sufficient energy reserves to increase the economic viability of the hatch- undergo the critical stage of metamorphosis, eries while maintaining the quality of the during which the larvae attach to a substrate. product. The second aim is to promote the Hatcheries currently produce their own development of oyster hatcheries in eastern live algae. Algae production is costly, par- Canada. A team from Laval University, led by Dr. Grant Vanden- ticularly in terms of labour. This project is berg, is developing a line of transgenic Atlantic salmon with an increased requirement for a specific nutrient that focused on completely or partially replacing Duration: 2008 – 2009 live algae produced in hatcheries with com- cannot be supplied by foods in the natural environment, mercial alternatives: dried algae powder and Funded by: CZRI but could be incorporated into fish feed formulations. algae concentrates. Since American oyster is Project team: Florent Garnerot (CZRI), Chantal Gionet Penned fish would remain healthy, but without the extra a highly selective feeder, the challenge in this (CZRI) nutrient in their prepared feed, escaped fish would be project is to find a high-quality alternative For information contact: Florent Garnerot unable to reproduce and would soon die due to lack of the food that is adapted to this species. ([email protected]) missing nutrient. Specifically, the project is a three-year investigation de- signed to: 1) evaluate several genetic constructs that would have the effect of increasing the specific requirement for PEI project delves into invasive tunicate a particular nutrient, 2) use a model species to verify ap- propriate expression of the modified or introduced genes, biology to improve management and 3) validate the ability of special feed formulations to maintain good growth and health in the modified fish. Since the establishment of invasive tunicate spe- treatment. The second objective is to evaluate Funded through grants from NSERC, the Atlantic cies in Prince Edward Island (PEI) waters, Styela environmental tolerances of tunicate early-life Salmon Federation, FQRNT-RAQ and Laval University, the clava and Ciona intestinalis have had devastating stages in order to determine their level of vul- BioCage program is now in its second year. effects on mussel culture. Mussel productivity nerability to natural and/or treatment condi- has been adversely affected by these infesta- tions. The third objective is to document the Duration: Nov ‘07 – Oct ‘10 tions and this is posing challenges for farm effects of water flow on the recruitment ability Funded by: NSERC Co-funded by: Atlantic Salmon Federation, FQRNT, husbandry. of C. intestinalis. RAQ, U Laval This project is exploring some aspects of Project team: Grant Vandenberg (U Laval), Mark Ekker (U Ottawa), Garth tunicate biology which could be exploited to Duration: Apr ‘08 – Mar ‘11 minimize tunicate abundance in aquaculture Fletcher (MUN), Lyne Létourneau (U Laval), Francois Pothier (U Laval), Rodrigue Yossa-Nouaga, Pallab-Kumer Sarker. sites through passive approaches. The first ob- Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: PEIAA, PEI DFAE jective is to investigate the reproductive biology Project team: Daniel Bourque (DFO) For information contact: Grant Vandenberg ([email protected]) of C. intestinalis in PEI waters with the aim of de- For information contact: Daniel Bourque termining the optimal time and effort of active ([email protected])

42 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 Miscellaneous

Studies seek methods to track DFO project maps sea aquaculture wastes in the bed of southern Gulf environment of St. Lawrence A good understand- All animal-rearing operations have the po- Previous evidence has indicated that microbial ing of the physical, tential to affect local environments through or chemical degradation could be a mechanism chemical and biolog- inputs of feed formulations, feces, chemicals for this observed fractionation of isotopes. ical characteristics of and therapeutants, and through biological or The current study will attempt to determine the seabed is a key mechanical effects, such as disease transmis- whether microbial action may be responsible element in habitat sion, shading or physical displacement. In for changes in the isotopic signature of fish characterisation aquaculture, however, one of the most difficult feces to the extent that they can no longer be needed in assessing things to assess is the movement of nutrients identified in the natural environment. development of off- from aquaculture wastes as they are degraded, This project, funded primarily by Environ- shore aquaculture. metabolized and assimilated into local environ- ment Canada, is part of a series of investiga- This benthic assem- ments. As components of waste materials are tions intended to develop a method for track- blage has proven to transported between trophic levels by organic ing the fate of aquaculture wastes by comparing be challenging to evaluate on a large scale. decomposition, plant uptake, grazing, preda- isotope signatures in the environment with However, there are some tools presently available that tion and/or deposition the percentages of those of feeds or fresh wastes. The researchers will enable the collection of baseline information. A Wide stable isotopes of key elements may not remain aim to quantify the isotopic changes in rainbow Angle Sonar Seabed Profiler (WASSP) multi-beam sonar constant, and therefore would be difficult to trout fecal matter through a period of micro- and an OLEX system is being installed aboard the Gulf use for tracking this waste in the environment. bial degradation and establish whether these Region research vessel “Opilio” to gather marine bottom Much of the current work has been focused changes form a consistent fractionation pattern information during every research mission. Olex AS is the on identifying a reliable and precise method of that could be used to describe or even predict developer and manufacturer of the electronic chart systems tracking the fate of aquaculture wastes by quan- the final signature. The three-year study is now OLEX. tifying these changes. Recent studies in Vancou- in its second year. The real-time 3D seafloor profiler can provide 2D bathy- ver, BC, St. Andrews, NB and Guelph, ON have metric contour mapping. Off-shore data from this system looked at stable isotopes, trace elements (cop- West Coast researchers focus on trace on the “Opilio” will be combined with the near-shore data per and zinc), pigments, pesticides, antibiotics metals already obtained by the Gulf Region lobster group to com- plete comprehensive marine bottom maps. and secondary effects on wild populations. There currently exist only a limited num- ber of sensitive detection tools that might be Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 applied to the tracking of aquaculture wastes Funded by: DFO-PARR in the environment, notably sediment-free sul- Project team: Leslie-Anne Davidson (DFO), Monique Niles (DFO), Michel fides (S/Eh) and trace metals. Trace elements Comeau (DFO), Gilles Paulin (DFO), Marc Ouellette (DFO), Mark New- such as zinc and copper, along with carotenoid combe (CMC Electronics), Darryl Landry (DFO-CG), Joanne Kane (DFO-CG), pigments (from fish feeds), pesticides, antibiot- Nigel Hawksworth (DFO-CG) ics and the fatty acid profiles from certain lipids For information contact: Leslie-Anne Davidson used in fish feeds have all been proposed as ([email protected]) candidates that could help scientists track the movement of waste nutrients through the eco- system, and to monitor the impacts over time. New tools in development A study now nearing completion at the DFO West Vancouver Lab has identified the trace to assess resuspension and metals zinc and copper as providing a possible suite of tracers that could track waste transport transport of aquaculture wastes pathways linking waste-loading sources with far-field deposition sites. According to team The project team is developing new tools for parameterizing the erodibility of aquaculture wastes and their associated contami- Secondary effects studied in New Brunswick leader Dr. Terri Sutherland, this should lead to a future method that can complement the cur- nants for use in predictive models and as far field indicators. On the East Coast, Dr. Andrew Cooper and rently recommended S/Eh system in quantify- A new mini slo-corer capable of preserving the sediment- Dr. Shawn Robinson have been conducting ing potential impacts associated with aquacul- water interface during sampling is being designed, constructed investigations of secondary effects of finfish cul- ture operations. and tested. Bottom sediment cores collected with this corer are ture, both near- and far-field, through changes coupled to an in-situ erosion device to quantify resuspension in wild species distributions, abundance, dynamics (i.e., mass eroded, grain size, organic carbon concen- New Brunswick study: growth, reproduction and disease. Because trations and trace metal concentrations as a function of shear aquaculture activities are subject to extremely Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 stress.) varied local conditions and occur among differ- Funded by: DFO-PARR ent biological communities, assessment of sec- Project team: J. Andrew Cooper (DFO), Shawn Robinson ondary effects can be problematic. To system- (DFO), Randy Losier (DFO), Blythe Chang (DFO), John atically sample and determine true cause and C. Reid (DFO), Paul McCurdy (DFO), Kats Haya (DFO), effect of secondary impacts in a cost-effective Les Burridge (DFO), Bruce MacDonald (UNBSJ), Thierry manner will require some prior understanding Chopin (UNBSJ). of the spatial and temporal scale of changes in For information contact: J. Andrew Cooper food webs that can arise from aquaculture in- ([email protected]) or Shawn Robinson puts. The aim of this research, being conducted ([email protected]) out of the St. Andrews Biological Station with grants from PARR and ACOA, is to establish a reliable methodology to detect exposure to Ontario study: aquaculture feed and the extent to which this Duration: Feb ‘07 – Feb ‘10 Drawing of mini slo-corer (Credit: G. Morton) occurs in key wild species. Funded by: Environment Canada. Ontario study seeks stable isotope technique Project team: Richard D. Moccia (U Guelph), Modeling programs like DEPOMOD deal primarily with the Kris Osuchowski (U Guelph) initial deposition of aquaculture wastes but fail to predict their Prof. Richard Moccia and his team at the For information contact: Richard D. Moccia subsequent resuspension and dispersal due to an inability to pa- University of Guelph are investigating how ([email protected]) rameterize erosion shear stress and the grain size of the eroded isotopes ratios are affected in the field as material. freshwater finfish wastes move into surround- The development of predictive models for transport of ing ecosystems. Previous work has shown that BC study: aquaculture wastes that could be used to assess the potential for isotopic signatures unique to certain fish feeds Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 far-field impacts requires both concentration and the size of the are distinct from those of other materials com- resuspended material, which this project addresses. monly found in freshwater sites, when rainbow Funded by: DFO-CIAS trout were raised in laboratory conditions. Project team: Terri Sutherland (DFO), Phil Yeats (DFO), Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 However, studies on a farm site in Lake Wol- Tim Milligan (DFO), Kats Haya (DFO), Dave Higgs (DFO), Funded by: DFO-PARR Cheryl Podemski (DFO). sey, Manitoulin Island failed to show any con- Project team: Brent Law (DFO), Tim Milligan (DFO), Gary Bugden (DFO), sistent relation between sediments near cages For information contact: Terri Sutherland Glen Morton (DFO), Fred Page (DFO), Randy Losier (DFO) and the isotopic signature of the feed used. ([email protected]) For information contact: Brent Law ([email protected])

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 43 Miscellaneous

AquaPort creates “First Look” site for future web portal

The effort to develop a web-based knowledge mobilization platform for aquaculture in Canada took a step forward with the development of a demonstration site called “First Look”. A talented group of students at Vancouver Island University con- tributed to its development. Four components have been built in this early stage of development – search, taxonomy, web alerts using tagging and RSS, and an R&D database. The AquaPort Search Portal was developed using “Google” custom search and deploys full-text / key- word search technology to provide access to the more-than 7,000 full- text aquaculture resources that were sourced by students working on Canadian aquaculture. Aquatic animal health the earlier AquaNet-funded portion of the was chosen as a topic area. project. The search index that has been built The content of the 2007 Aquaculture for AquaPort consists of “url patterns” exclu- R&D Review has been separated into its con- sively for aquaculture resources and is thus stituent parts (text and images), and together ideal for building a “vertical” search engine with relevant metadata, stored in a custom- that specializes in only one sector. developed MySQL database. A map-based The team also developed a custom tax- access has also been developed by “mashing” onomy (at this point, a simple hierarchy or the location data from the database with the Jeannette Arseneault, Molecular biology technician at the Gulf Fisheries Center, “enumerative” taxonomy) for use during Google Map API (Application Programmer DFO, doing a DNA extraction from oyster tissue. (Photo: A. Veniot) Stage 1 of the search portal. The AquaPort Interface). Users will therefore be able to lo- taxonomy is an aquaculture-based hierar- cate projects by geographical area, and zoom chy of subjects which means all aquaculture in on the location to view the full project subjects can be placed in and accessed, via information. Moncton lab validates browsing, from one place. AquaPort wanted to demonstrate the assay for the detection potential of tagging, RSS alerts, and RSS Duration: Jan ‘08 – Apr ‘08 aggregation to facilitate rapid and targeted Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: BCARDC information transfer and knowledge mobili- Project team: Tim DeJager (co3), Barbara Thomas (VIU), of ISA and MSX zation for the Canadian aquaculture sector. Linda Hiemstra (Mel Mor Science), VIU Students: Omar The team created a demonstration of how The National Aquatic Animal Health Program (NAAHP) of Beltran, Ye Zhou, SiJie Guo, Jas Randhawa, Laura tagging and RSS feeds could be implemented Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) comprises a network of Braden in a specific program or area of interest in to laboratories, where fish and shellfish diseases are diagnosed. For information contact: [email protected] Many assays are developed in-house. The laboratories are cur- rently implementing ISO 17025, and validating assays on their scope. Atlantic project develops models for drum Two assays are validated with no gold standard and latent class models at the Aquatic Animal Health Unit of Moncton: filters and large diameter tanks the detection of infectious salmon anemia virus (ISAV), which is a pathogen found primarily in salmonids, and Haplosporidium This project is the continua- work so that it can be used to hydraulics and self-cleaning. nelsoni (MSX), a pathogen affecting oysters in Canada. Assays tion of recent work on solids accurately size drum filters for The CFD model fills this for ISAV and MSX include a regular RT-PCR and a real-time removal in recirculation a variety of applications. The gap by guiding the develop- RT-PCR assay. For MSX, histopathological detection is validated, aquaculture systems. It seeks screen coverage per unit mass ment and scale-up of large and for ISAV, a viral assay is part of the validation. to reduce the production cost of solids entering the drum diameter triple-drain tanks. Assay characteristics such as repeatability (within laboratory) of land-based aquaculture filter, a key input parameter of The drum filter and CFD and reproducibility (between laboratory), specificity and sensi- systems by focusing on the the model, is being measured models are being validated tivity are determined following the processing of hundreds of development of improved de- in the field using an image by comparing their predic- carefully selected samples archived or collected for this purpose, sign methodologies for rotary analysis technique that will be tions with performance data and statistical analysis done by epidemiologists at the Atlantic drum filters and the scale-up developed for this purpose. from equipment operating at Veterinary College of University of PEI. The assays are used for of triple-drain tanks beyond The team is also develop- salmon-smolt farms. surveillance, surveys, trade purposes, diagnostics, research, etc. the current maximum size of ing a computational fluid dy- Validation to ISO 17025 standards provides a level of assurance 11 m. namics (CFD) model for the Duration: 2008 – Ongoing internationally recognized. Rotary drum filters are hydraulic behaviour of large widely used for removing sus- triple-drain fish tanks. As the Funded by: CCFI pended solids in recirculation aquaculture industry strives to Project team: Michel Couturier (UNB), Duration: Sep ‘07 – Sep ‘09 systems but their design has reduce cost, there is a growing Adrian Desbarats (Atlantech), Jake Funded by: DFO hereto been performed using trend toward large diameter Elliott (Cooke Aquaculture Ltd.), Char- lane Hatt (NB DAA), Andy Chapman Project team: Nellie Gagné (DFO), Anne Veniot (DFO), Charles Caraguel (UPEI), rules of thumb. This project is fish tanks but no information (CCFI) Carol McClure (UPEI), Mélanie Robichaud-Haché (DFO), Michèle Maillet (DFO), improving the mathematical is available on the impact of Crystal Collette (DFO) model developed in the recent increasing tank size on tank For information contact: Marc Keilley ([email protected]) For information contact: Nellie Gagné ([email protected])

Between the early 1990’s and early 2000’s a series of aquaculture site monitoring in relation to habitat suit- New Brunswick regional projects were undertaken that sought to identify ability and sensitivity for invertebrate fisheries resources. and map sensitive fishery areas within Southwest New All reports identify promising technical approaches from project upgrades Brunswick in relation to aquaculture development. MHM theory and practise that may be applied in develop- Many results still exist in the form of specific project ing new integrated aquaculture assessments. habitat data for reports and advisory documentation. From the mid-late 1990’s, comprehensive approaches to marine habitat map- Duration: Sep ‘08 – Mar ‘09 ping (MHM) have emerged globally, primarily applied to aquaculture site date at regional-scale applications. Funded by: DFO-PARR This project is reviewing existing regional reports and Project team: Peter Lawton (DFO), Fred Page (DFO), Blythe Chang (DFO) assessments completing two draft technical reports on approaches to For information contact: Peter Lawton ([email protected])

44 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 Miscellaneous

Newfoundland information initiative helps manage threat of invasive species The introduction of invasive alien species (AIS) into Newfoundland and Labrador waters represents a significant potential threat to the Newfoundland shellfish aquaculture industry. Although economically-harmful invasive species have not been found on any aquaculture site in the province, finding invasive tunicate and species in NL waters illustrates that the threat to our industry is real. The current NAIA initiative, funded through the Government of Canada’s Invasive Alien Species Partnership Program (IASPP), has been very valuable in providing an extra level of security for industry by proactively dealing with AIS before they become a problem. The driving force for this NAIA initiative is the continuation of the Newfoundland AIS Advisory Committee, co-chaired with DFO, NL region. The Committee has been essential as a conduit of information between the various groups in Newfoundland that have an interest in The K’ómoks First Nation welcome attendees of the Aboriginal Youth the issues surrounding AIS establishment and spread. and Sciences Professional Development Workshop (Photo: BC CAHS) Another important and extremely productive part of the project has been the organization of Invasive Species Workshops in 2007 and 2008. These workshops were successful in engaging people from a wide range of backgrounds and interests, and in examining impacts of AIS and BC project builds aquatic current management approaches used here in NL and elsewhere. science capacity in Duration: Apr ‘08 – Mar ‘10 Funded by: IASPP Co-funded by: DFO, NL DFA, MI, MUN-OSC, EC, CFIA aboriginal communities Project team: Darrell Green (NAIA), Cynthia McKenzie (DFO), Derek Mouland (NL DFA) For information contact: Darrell Green ([email protected]) Three model institutions are collaborating on a project called “Towards Building Aquatic Science Capacity in Aboriginal Com- munities” funded by the BC Ministry of Advanced Education. Marine bacteria may On September 27, 2007, the BC Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences (BC CAHS), North Island College (NIC) and New be source of marine Zealand’s National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Re- search (NIWA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding for anti-foulant treatment the purposes of establishing and furthering academic exchange opportunities, capacity building, and cooperation in the field of A New Brunswick team is exploring the aquatic sciences. potential of developing an antifouling treat- The collaborative project aims to develop institutional bases ment derived from local marine bacteria for for cooperation and academic exchange and to provide for the use in aquaculture as an alternative to existing Piece of experimental netting hung in the water to capture exchange of students annually. In addition, the project provides antifouling treatments. The approach is based various forms of fouling organisms. opportunities for the transfer of Aboriginal/Maori educational on the identification of marine bacteria which models. It supports the exchange of aquatic science methodolo- inhibit the early colonization of surfaces by industry standard products. gies and assists in the transfer of aquatic industry expertise. The bacteria which promote or permit the settle- Panels of nets were deployed during project is designed to be sustainable beyond the initial funding ment of macroscopic fouling organisms. the early fall which have been subsequently period. The project has four objectives. The first is retrieved. Bacterial colonies are now being The partnership is preparing to build on NIC’s successful the isolation, identification and cultivation of isolated and identified from these surfaces at “learning circle” model by forming a group of young aboriginal early bacterial colonizers from selected marine RPC in Fredericton. scientists who will tour BC First Nation Coastal communities surfaces. The second is to apply in vitro high throughput screening assays for the selection acting as role models for success in the area of mathematics and Duration: Jul ‘08 – Mar ‘10 sciences. of bacteria from a library of marine bacteria which produce substances that actively inhibit Funded by: DFO-ACRDP Co-funded by: NBSGA the early colonizers identified in objective1. Project team: Shawn Robinson (DFO), Ben Forward (RPC), Duration: Sep ‘08 –Ongoing The third is to formulate extracts from anti- Caroline Graham (NBSGA), Clarence Blanchard (Future Funded by: BC Ministry of Advanced Education fouling strains identified in objective 2 into Nets and Supplies Limited) For information contact: Linda Sams ([email protected]) experimental coatings for testing. The fourth For information contact: Shawn Robinson (Shawn.Robin- is to test the experimental coatings on selected [email protected]) Website: http://www.cahs-bc.ca/ surfaces in vivo and compare with current

The Centre for Coastal Health, based at Vancouver Island University, has 3 projects on fish health policies and practices and sustainable BC group links fish health management aquaculture. In the first project, the team reviewed attitudes and policies in with goals for sustainable aquaculture British Columbia salmon farming. They found four main obstacles to sustainability-based health management. First, salmon farming faces the same challenges as other industries when trying to establish a working definition of sustainability that captures stakeholders’ interests. Second, no program is responsible for comprehensively integrating regulations and monitoring efforts to develop a comprehensive view of sustainability. Third, there is inad- equate research and social consensus on the criteria to be used to track health for sustainability purposes. Fourth, the regulatory and manage- ment paradigm has focused on diseases and pathogens as opposed to embracing a more inclusive health promotion model. A paper is being published in the journal Ecohealth and includes recommendations for steps forward. The next two projects are ongoing and are taking place in Sri Lanka. One is examining the policy framework for sustainable devel- opment of the ornamental fish farming industry while the other is examining needs and opportunities to implement best management practices in ornamental fish and shrimp farming with respect to the avoidance of antimicrobial resistance. Duration: Apr ‘07 – Dec ‘09 Funded by: TCGHF Co-funded by: PHAC Project team: Craig Stephen (CCH), Jennifer Dawson Coates (CCH), Nalaka Munasinghe (U Peradeniya, Sri Lanka), Preeni Abeynayake (U Peradeniya, Sri Lanka) For information contact: Craig Stephen ([email protected]) Website: www.centreforcoastalhealth.ca Dr. Preeni Abeynayke in Sri Lanka Sorting fresh water ornamental fish in Sri Lanka

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 • 45 Miscellaneous

Dr. Stephen Cross, based at the BC aquaculture University of Victoria, is advanc- Fatty acid enrichment of microalgae ing the research needed to develop and environment multi-trophic aquaculture in BC. He Microalgae are widely used is leading a team in the development as nutrients in aquaculture. capacity-building of the SEA (Sustainable Ecological They are the essential nutri- Aquaculture) system at a site in Kyu- ents for mollusc culture and initiative continues quot sound. are used to nourish zoo- Dr. Shannon Balfry, at the UBC- plankton (rotifers, artemia growth DFO Centre for Aquaculture and En- and copepods) on which the vironmental Research, specializes in In 2006, four British Columbia larvae of fish and crustaceans host and pathogen interactions and is aquaculture scientists were selected feed, in turn. leading projects working on a variety to receive BC Aquaculture & Envi- Many studies have shown of cultured and wild species of fish. ronment Innovation Awards. The the importance of nutritional The BC Centre for Aquatic Health goal of these awards is to catalyze the quality in successful culture of Sciences is set to welcome Dr. Luis formation of long-term collaborative mollusc larvae, and particu- Afonso to continue the research pro- research that will lead to environ- larly the essential polyunsatur- Live algae concentrate (left) vs fresh algae culture (right) gram that was being developed by Dr. mental sustainability solutions for BC ated fatty acid (PUFAs) levels (Photo: D. Diouf) Val Funk to address fish health issues aquaculture. These 5-year funding of microalgae. The general through improved understanding of awards are enabling the 4 research- objective of this study is to In addition, fatty acid enrichment of host-pathogen interactions and host ers and their institutions to build determine the optimal production and microalgae was carried out in diatom immune mechanisms responsible for critically needed research programs stabilization conditions for concen- cultures (Chaetoceros gracilis and Thalas- preventing disease. by leveraging funding for numerous trates of live PUFA-enriched microal- siosira pseudonana) where the PUFA con- gae. research projects. tent quadrupled, doubled and tripled Duration: Apr ‘06 – Mar ‘11 The fat content of various micro- (EPA, DHA and AA), respectively. These programs are being devel- oped in four centres that are growing Funded by: BCARDC-AE algae concentrates (Nannochloropsis, Duration: 2007 – 2008 Isochrysis galbana and Pavlova lutherii) into important research hubs. Dr. Project team: Helen Gurney Smith (VIU-CSR), were evaluated, as well as a mixture of Funded by: NSERC Co-funded by: RAQ Helen Gurney-Smith, at Vancouver Stephen Cross (UVic), Shannon Balfry (UBC- the three species. The concentrates re- Project team: Réjean Tremblay (ISMER-UQAR), Island University‘s Centre for Shell- CAER), Luis Afonso (BC-CAHS) tained essentially the same nutritional Diadié Diouf (ISMER-UQAR), Réal Fournier fish Research, is focusing on shellfish health and husbandry. Among her For information contact: properties after 8 weeks in storage at (ISMER-UQAR), Fabrice Pernet (IFREMER) Tim DeJager ([email protected]) numerous projects is a genomics proj- 4°C. Overall, more than 80% of fatty For information contact: Réjean Tremblay Websites: CSR http://www.viu.ca/csr/ acids were retained in all species. ([email protected]) ect to develop a health assessment tool for mussel culture. Pacific SEA Lab: http://www.pacificsea-lab.com/ BC-CAHS: http://www.cahs-bc.ca/

Acronyms used in the 2009 Canadian Aquaculture R&D Review

AANS – Aquaculture Association of Nova Scotia DFO-PARR – Program for Aquaculture Regulatory Research OMAFRA – Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs AARS – Alma Aquaculture Research Station - University of Guelph DIT-MAPAQ – Direction de l’innovation et des technologies OMNR – Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources ACOA – Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency (MAPAQ) OMOE – Ontario Ministry of Environment ACOA-AIF – Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency - Atlantic EC – Environment Canada OSAP – Ontario Student Assistance Program Innovation Fund EPAQ - École des pêches et de l’aquaculture du Québec PEIAA – PEI Aquaculture Alliance AEG - Aquaculture Engineering Group Inc. FC – Fleming College PEI-DFARD – Prince Edward Island Department of Fisheries, AFRI - Aquaculture and Fisheries Research Initiative Inc (PEI) FQRNT – Fonds québécois de la recherche sur la nature et les Aquaculture and Rural Development ASF – Atlantic Salmon Federation technologies PHAC – Public Health Agency of Canada AUCC – Association of Universities and Colleges Canada IASPP – Invasive Alien Species Partnership Program (Environment PSF – Pacific Salmon Foundation Canada) BC CAHS – British Columbia Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences RAQ – Réseau Aquaculture Québec Idaho State U – Idaho State University BC MoE – British Columbia Ministry of Environment RPC – Research and Productivity Council IFREMER – French Research Institute for Exploitation of the Sea BCARDC – BC Aquaculture Research and Development Committee RPPGR – Regroupement des pêcheurs professionnels de Grande- (BC Innovation Council) IML – Institut Maurice-Lamontagne Rivière BCARDC-AE – BCARDC Aquaculture and Environment Research IMR Norway – Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway SABS – St. Andrews Biological Station Fund IPSFAD – Interprovincial Partnership for Sustainable Freshwater SE – Saskatchewan Environment Aquaculture Development Inc. BCIC – British Columbia Innovation Council SFU – Simon Fraser University MAFRI – Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives BCMAL – British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Lands SMU – St. Mary’s University MAPAQ – Ministère de l’Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de BCSFA – British Columbia Salmon Farmers Association SODIM – Société de Développement de l’Industrie Maricole l’Alimentation du Québec BCSGA – British Columbia Shellfish Grower’s Association SORDAC – Société de recherche et de développement en McMaster U – McMaster University BNB – Business New Brunswick aquaculture continentale MDEIE – Ministère du Développement économique, Innovation et CACN – Centre aquacole de la Côte-Nord, SRD – Government of Alberta Sustainable Resource Development de l’Exportation (Quėbec) CAISN – Canadian Aquatic Invasive Species Network (CAISN) TAGC – The Atlantic Genome Centre MI – Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland CAMGR-MAPAQ – Centre aquacole marin de Grande-Rivière TCGHF – Teasdale-Corti Global Health Fund (International MUN – Memorial University of Newfoundland CCFAM ATG – Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Research Centre) MUN OSC – Memorial University of Newfoundland - Ocean Ministers – Aquaculture Task Group Trent U – Trent University Sciences Centre CCFI – Canada Center for Fisheries Innovation U Aberdeen – University of Aberdeen NAIA – Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association CED – Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions U Copenhagen – University of Copenhagen NB DAA – New Brunswick Department of Agriculture and CeMIM-MAPAQ – Centre maricole des Îles-de-la-Madeleine Aquaculture U Guelph – University of Guleph CFIA – Canadian Food Inspection Agency NB DAA–TDF – NB DAA - Total Development Fund U Iceland – University of Iceland CGP – Atlantic Cod Genomics and Broodstock Development Project NBIF – New Brunswick Innovation Fund U Laval – Universitė Laval COA – Canada Ontario Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes NBPSGA – New Brunswick Professional Shellfish Growers U Moncton – Universitė de Moncton Basin Ecosystem Association U Montreal – Université de Montréal CRESCO - Centre de Recherche et d’Enseignement sur les Systèmes NBSGA – New Brunswick Salmon Growers Association U Ottawa – University of Ottawa Côtiers (France) NL DFA – Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Fisheries and U Sask – University of Saskatchewan CSR-VIU – Centre for Shellfish Research, Vancouver Island Aquaculture U Tromsø – University of Tromsø University NNRC – Norway National Research Council U Vic – University of Victoria CTPA-MAPAQ – Centre technologique des produits aquatiques NOAA – Northern Ontario Aquaculture Association U Windsor – University of Windsor CZRI – Coastal Zones Research Institute Inc. (U Moncton Shippegan NOAA Fisheries Service – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Campus) UBC – University of British Columbia Administration National Marine Fisheries Service Dalhousie U - Dalhousie University UBC-CAER – UBC and DFO Centre for Aquaculture and NRC – National Research Council Canada Environmental Research DFO – Fisheries and Oceans Canada NRC-IMB – National Research Council Canada – Institute for UNB – University of New Brunswick DFO-ACRDP – DFO Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Marine Biosciences Development Program UPEI – University of Prince Edward Island NRC-IRAP – National Research Council Canada – Industrial UPEI-AVC – UPEI Atlantic Veterinary College DFO-AIMAP – DFO Aquaculture Innovation and Market Access Research Assistance Program Program UQAR-ISMER –, Université du Québec à Rimouski - Institut des NS DFA – Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture DFO-AIS – DFO Aquatic Invasive Species Sciences de la Mer NSAC – Nova Scotia Agricultural College DFO-CG – DFO Coast Guard VIU – Vancouver Island University NSERC – Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of WLU – Wilfred Laurier University DFO-GRDI – DFO Genomics Research and Development Initiative Canada DFO-NASAPI – DFO National Aquaculture Strategic Action Plan NVI Norway – National Veterinary Institute of Norway Initiative

46 • RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT • 2009 Organizations Supporting Projects in this Publication

Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation Innovation and Technologies Directorate (MAPAQ)

The Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation (CCFI) is in the business Ministère de l’Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation du Québec fosters sustainable development and of solving problems and creating opportunities for the aquaculture indus- competitiveness in the fisheries and aquaculture sector in Québec. try and fishery through science and technology. Since its opening in 1989, Its Innovation and Technologies Directorate (Direction de l’innovation et des technologies – DIT) supports over 200 leading Canadian companies in the aquaculture, processing, programs involving scientific research and technical support for the industry at its three R&D centres: the harvesting, biotechnology and related sectors have come to CCFI for help Magdalen Islands Mariculture Centre (CeMIM), the Grande-Rivière Marine Aquaculture Centre (CAMGR); and developing new products, new technologies and techniques, and solving the Aquatic Products Technology Centre in Gaspé (CTPA). These centres generate knowledge that is of use to virtually every type of technical problem that the industry faces. the industry and coordinate the technical aid provided to aquaculture businesses via a network of contributors What makes CCFI stand apart is the unique working relationships it posted throughout Québec. has established with fourteen universities and colleges in Atlantic Canada. MAPAQ is responsible for the development and implementation of strategies and programs designed to fos- With these arrangements, the hundreds of scientists, engineers and tech- ter innovation. It provides funding for intelligence watch, R&D, technology transfer and information dissemina- nologists in those institutions provide their expertise and facilities to CCFI tion projects and encourages collaboration between the industry, institutions, and organisations involved in R&D. clients. Many are world leaders in their fields, and have made it possible Finally, mandated by the Government of Québec, MAPAQ oversees two research funds managed by the for the Centre to carry out 670 industrial projects worth $80 million over mariculture industry development corporation (Société de développement de l’industrie maricole – SODIM) 17 years. and the inland aquaculture research and development corporation (Société de recherche et de développement The Centre offers its clients a comprehensive service. Industrial Liaison en aquaculture continentale inc. – SORDAC), and provides funding to R&D organisations like the North Shore Officers analyze the client’s problem or opportunity, draft a research plan Aquaculture Centre (Centre aquacole de la Côte-Nord) the Salmonid Selection and Transfer Centre (Centre de and budget, identify and secure the services of scientific or engineering transfert et de sélection des salmonidés) and the Marine Biotechnology Research Centre (Centre de recherche sur specialists to carry out the work, and if needed, enlist other organizations les biotechnologies marines). in getting involved. The Centre also helps fund the initiative. CCFI shep- herds the client company through the maze of activities in the research, Pacific Salmon Forum so that it can continue to concentrate on its business needs. In aquacul- ture the Centre’s scientific and technological services run the entire gamut The BC Pacific Salmon Forum completed its mandate to the Province of British Columbia with the delivery of a from early feeding trials for new developing species to offshore cage final report and recommendations in January, 2009. It has operated since April 2005 as an independent citizen development. body using science and stakeholder dialogue to advance the sustainable governance of BC Pacific salmon. Since 2006 it has funded a variety of research initiatives and technical reports. For more information contact: Marc Kielley ([email protected] ) Before ending operations, the Forum funded several initiatives to be carried out in spring and summer 2009, Website: http://www.ccfi.ca/ including: • oceanographic data collection to support the refinement of the dynamic finite volume coastal ocean model Natural Sciences and Engineering Research tracking the movement of sea lice and other particles in the Broughton Archipelago; • marine monitoring and analysis of wild juvenile pink and chum salmon in the Broughton Archipelago dur- Council of Canada (NSERC) ing the out-migration period of March through June; and • lab and field study of the biological effects of SLICE®, (emamectin benzoate), a widely used anti-parasitic NSERC’s role is to make investments in people, discovery and innovation agent used on salmon farms to control sea lice, on the marine environment. for the benefit of all Canadians. The organization invests in people by sup- In addition, an independent peer review of the Forum’s interim research findings from the two-year Brough- porting more than 26,500 university students and postdoctoral fellows in ton Research Program will be conducted. their advanced studies. NSERC also promotes discovery by funding more Forum members are also urging the Province to appoint an independent science secretariat to assume than 10,000 university professors every year and it helps make innovation responsibility for future research to support an ecosystem-based management approach. This research is neces- happen by encouraging more than 500 Canadian companies to invest in sary to evaluate all development activities in BC watersheds and nearshore marine systems, improving public university research. confidence that urban and industrial activity is being undertaken based on the best science available.

Website: www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/ For more information: A copy of the Forum’s Final Report and Recommendations along with research results and other contracted reports can be found at www.pacificsalmonforum.ca/research/index.php. This website will Genome Atlantic remain active for at least one year.

Genome Atlantic is a not-for-profit corporation with Board members from Société de développement de l’industrie maricole (SODIM) all four Atlantic provinces, dedicated to the promotion of fundamental and applied research in genomics for the furtherance of scientific under- Société de développement de l’industrie maricole (SODIM) inc. was founded in 1997 for the purpose of providing standing and for the development of the knowledge-based economy in firms interested in marine aquaculture with flexible financial assistance tailored to their needs. SODIM is a not- the region. for-profit corporation and its mission is to contribute to the creation and development of profitable, competitive Genome Atlantic invests in and manages large scale genomics re- marine aquaculture enterprises. search projects and technology infrastructure throughout the Atlantic Re- To achieve its mission, SODIM has set the following goals to promote the development of a viable marine gion, with over $50 million in committed financing to date from Genome aquaculture industry within its territory, namely in the Gaspé Peninsula, Magdalen Islands, Lower St. Lawrence Canada, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), Federal and and North Shore, specifically by: Atlantic Provincial governments, and other funding organizations. • Providing financial assistance for the start-up, diversification and expansion of marine aquaculture enter- This investment is ensuring that our best scientific minds stay in the prises; region, while attracting talent from around the world and creating high • Offering technical assistance and advisory services to marine aquaculture enterprises; and quality training and employment opportunities for our local graduates. • Promoting research and development and technology transfer in aquaculture. SODIM has two important tools with which to achieve its mission - an investment fund and a R&D fund. The For information contact: Dr. Steve Armstrong, President and CEO general purpose of the R&D fund is to stimulate research and technology transfer and promote the development ([email protected] ) of freshwater and marine aquaculture enterprises in the maritime regions of Quebec. The fund is designed to Website: http://www.genomeatlantic.ca/ support pre-competitive research activities, i.e., activities of a very practical nature. With the fund, SODIM seeks to promote innovation in the aquaculture industry in these regions. With the collaboration of its partners, SODIM is responsible for identifying research priorities and developing and overseeing the implementation of a science Genome British Columbia action plan.

Genome British Columbia is a research organization that invests in and Website: www.sodim.org/ manages large-scale genomics and proteomics research projects and science and technology platforms focused on areas of strategic impor- The British Columbia Aquaculture Research and Development tance such as human health, forestry, fisheries, ethics, agriculture and the environment. By working collaboratively with all levels of government, Committee (BCARDC) – Aquaculture and Environment Fund universities and industry, Genome BC is the catalyst for a vibrant, genomics-driven life sciences BCARDC was formed to enhance aquaculture research and development capacity and organization on the Pacific cluster with far reaching social and economic benefits for the province coast. Operating under the umbrella of the BC Innovation Council, BCARDC: and Canada. • Identifies and sets regional aquaculture R&D priorities; Genome BC’s major investors are Genome Canada and the Province of • Provides strategic direction and advice regarding aquaculture-related R&D expenditures; British Columbia. This funding is complemented by other private and pub- • Enables communication and improves coordination amongst entities involved in R&D and extension ser- lic investments. Genome British Columbia is investing over $380 million in vices related to aquaculture in British Columbia; and 60 projects and technology platforms. • Provides reliable information on aquaculture, its activities and its sustainable management. Established in 2000, Genome BC is one of six Genome Canada centres The BC Aquaculture Research & Development Committee encourages independent research to foster a fully across the country. sustainable aquaculture industry in British Columbia in conjunction with the stewardship of aquatic resources. The Committee exists to define research priorities, fund and coordinate research projects and communicate For more information: http://www.genomebc.ca/ research results to the broader community. With industry representatives in the finfish and shellfish aquaculture sector as well as federal and provincial government agencies and university research institutions, the Commit- tee has worked to significantly develop research capacity in British Columbia. The Aquaculture and Environment Fund was provided by the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands.

Website: http://www.bcic.ca/research-institutions/research-development/aqua-e-fund One last go- through with

Organizations Supporting Projects in this Publication

The Réseau Aquaculture Québec effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery Aquaculture Innovation and Market of science. One of these COEs is the virtual Access Program (AIMAP) The Réseau Aquaculture Québec (RAQ) is a network of researchers (academic, provincial Centre for Integrated Aquaculture Science In 2008 the Department of Fisher- and federal government researchers, CEGEP professors) involved in aquaculture research in (CIAS), with its Secretariat located at the ies and Oceans announced a new grants Québec. The network has been supported by Valorisation Recherche Québec (VRQ) and the St. Andrews Biological Station (SABS), New and contributions program to bolster the Société de développement de l’industrie maricole (SODIM) from 2001 to 2006. From 2006 Brunswick. development, early commercialization and/or to 2012, the network will be supported through the “Réseaux stratégiques” program of the The mandate of the CIAS is to lead, early adoption of innovative techniques for Fonds québécois de la recherche sur la nature et les technologies (FQRNT). facilitate, coordinate, and implement an the Canadian aquaculture sector. Over the RAQ has succeeded in bringing together all Québec researchers with an interest in finfish inter-regional and nationally integrated DFO next five years $23.5 million will be made and shellfish aquaculture, in both the fresh and marine environments, and to provide them ecosystem-based, longer-term aquaculture available for innovation and market access with a forum for comparing and combining their research results and expertise. regulatory research program that supports projects. RAQ has always had very close contact with the aquaculture industry in Québec, espe- the Department’s aquaculture development The goal of this new program is to cata- cially to its close association with SODIM and the Société de recherché et de développement and management mandate. lyze private sector and other investment in en aquaculture continentale (SORDAC), partners who play an active role in the elaboration of In order to deliver this mandate, the the aquaculture sector that will: the RAQ’s scientific program. objectives of the CIAS are to: For more information contact Céline Audet, Ph.D. Scientific Director, • Improve the competitiveness of the Cana- • Identify, implement, and coordinate [email protected] or visit http://raq.uqar.ca/ dian aquaculture industry by encouraging national and inter-regional longer-term re- an aquaculture sector that continuously search approaches, programs and projects develops and adopts innovative tech- focused on ecosystem-based aquaculture nologies and management techniques to regulatory research that address the team be made up of researchers internal or enhance its global competitiveness and Fisheries and Oceans relevant departmental aquaculture needs environmental performance; and Canada (DFO) external to the department, as well as differ- and priorities; ences in their funding envelopes and project • Position Canadian aquaculture products • Help identify new capacities and expertise timeframes. as having high value in the market place DFO delivers programs and services that required to address existing and emerging The following five DFO programs are based on their environmental performance, support the sustainable use and develop- ecosystem-based aquaculture regulatory currently funding Canadian aquaculture traceability and other considerations. ment of Canada’s waterways and aquatic science issues; research: Since June 2008 AIMAP has contrib- resources. On behalf of the Government of • Help facilitate inter- and cross-laboratory uted approximately $4.5 million towards Canada, DFO is responsible for developing Aquaculture Collaborative Research partnerships as required to address inter- 26 projects totalling $37 million in value. and implementing policies and programs in and Development Program (ACRDP) regional and pan-Canadian DFO ecosys- These projects are contributing towards the support of Canada’s scientific, ecological, tem-based aquaculture regulatory science program goals of sustainable development, The Aquaculture Collaborative Research social and economic interests in oceans and priorities in an effective and efficient species diversification or the development of and Development Program (ACRDP) is a DFO fresh waters. It is DFO’s mission to deliver to manner, and within a nationally integrated green technology. initiative to increase the level of collab- Canadians the following outcomes: research framework; orative research and development activity • Safe and Accessible Waterways; For more information, please visit the AIMAP between the aquaculture industry and the • Help develop an awareness within the DFO • Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosys- website at: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/aqua- department, and in some instances with Science community of the aquaculture tems; and culture/sustainable-durable/innovation-eng. other funding partners. The ACRDP is an related objectives and priorities of the De- • Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture. partment, including emerging issues that htm In working toward these outcomes, the industry-driven program that teams industry with DFO researchers. Projects are conducted require a science response; Department is guided by the principles of Genomics Research & Development at DFO Research facilities or possibly indus- sound scientific knowledge and effective • Help communicate within DFO Science Initiative (GRDI) try partner facilities. The program allocates management. and to its clients (i) the priority needs for ACRDP funds to collaborative research proj- national and inter-regional DFO ecosys- Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) uses DFO is the lead federal department for ects that are proposed and jointly funded by genomics for the aquaculture industry and in the sustainable management of fisheries and tem-based aquaculture regulatory science, aquaculture producer partners. The ACRDP (ii) the science activities being conducted the management of the wild fishery. These aquaculture. Responsibility for aquaculture funding is approximately $4.275 million per tools lead to better disease identification management and development (governance) to meet those needs, and (iii) the results of year and is subdivided regionally. those activities. and control, development of techniques is shared between the federal, provincial and The key goals of the program are to im- to accurately determine the population territorial governments. We work together, prove the competitiveness of the Canadian structure of wild marine fish and to identify with many other partners, to ensure that For more information, contact: Fred Page aquaculture industry, increase collaboration ([email protected]), or visit http:// endangered species and minimize illegal the legislative and regulatory framework for between the department and industry to www.mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sabs/CIAS-CSIA/ or inadvertent harvesting. As an enabling aquaculture is responsive to the public’s and enhance aquaculture in Canada, facilitate CIAS-eng.html technology, genomics provides powerful industry’s needs. and accelerate the process of technology tools and precise information to support DFO’s aquaculture research aims to transfer and research commercialization, Program for Aquaculture Regulatory operational mandates and upon which policy address regulatory knowledge gaps, and and increase scientific capacity for essential Research (PARR) and regulatory decisions can be based. collaborative research and development aquaculture research and development in The Genomics R&D Initiative was with the aquaculture industry. Collaborative the aquaculture sector. The Program for Aquaculture Regulatory established for the purpose of building and research facilitates the transfer of the latest The broad research and development Research (PARR) is an internal DFO research maintaining capacity inside government de- technologies to the aquaculture industry. objectives, under which National and Re- program that supports research projects partments to do genomics research. Through Research on the environmental effects of gional priorities have been established, are focused on increasing the relevant science targeted investments the Initiative has aquaculture also provides a solid scientific threefold: knowledge base that supports and advises enabled the establishment of critical mass in foundation for the conservation and protec- • Best performance in fish production informed DFO ecosystem-based environmen- genomics research that supports innovation tion of fish and fish habitat in marine or • Optimal fish health tal regulation and decision making of the in key Canadian sectors, and ensures that freshwater ecosystems. On-going research • Industry environmental performance aquaculture sector. federal departments can mobilize their sup- contributes to scientific certainty with Since the program’s inception in 2001, This program was created in 2008 as part port for the overall, national genomics effort of the New Aquaculture Program initiative, respect to aquaculture operations and how over 253 projects have been approved and (e.g., projects funded by Genome Canada, and the knowledge and information pro- they interact with the aquatic environment. funded. In total, over $59.2M in research has CIHR). Programs funded under the genom- duced as a result of the funded research will In recent years, DFO’s research effort been funded through the ACRDP, consist- ics R&D initiative are also used to augment support the Federal, Provincial and Territorial has been directed at understanding environ- ing of $27.3M in ACRDP funds, $13.1M in human resources and help create partner- industry contributions, $5.3M leveraged from activities to develop a Canadian Framework ships with other government departments, mental effects of aquaculture on freshwater for Aquaculture Environmental Risk Manage- and marine habitat and ecosystems. We also other project partners, and $13.5M that DFO universities, and industry (where applicable) has contributed on top of the yearly ACRDP ment. through the sharing of technology platforms invest in aquatic animal health research to Research priorities for PARR include understand how best to prevent, mitigate allocation. and by collaborating in research areas that understanding aquaculture-environment cut across traditional departmental sectors. and treat disease. As species diversifica- interactions, science to support fish health tion is often seen as a means of increasing For more information, please visit the ACRDP management, and genetic interactions be- For information, contact: Dan McPhee Canada’s global market share, DFO scientists website at: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sci- ence/enviro/aquaculture/acrdp-pcrda/index- tween wild and cultured organisms. ([email protected]), or visit also play a key role in innovative research. eng.htm http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Science/biotech/ DFO enables research pertaining to For more information, contact: Ingrid Bur- abgrds-srdbfa/index-eng.htm aquaculture in Canada through the imple- Centre for Integrated Aquaculture getz ([email protected]), or visit mentation of research funding programs. Science (CIAS) http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/aquaculture Further information on priorities, These programs vary in their mandates, plans, programs and projects can resulting in a comprehensive strategy for As part of the DFO Science Renewal, DFO be found on the DFO web site: funding scientific research, development or Science has created Centres of Expertise pre-commercialization, whether the research (COEs) in key areas to promote innovation, http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca