Abstract
The first aim of this thesis is to investigate the connectivity between salmon farms in the Faroe Islands with respect to the sea louse, L. salmonis, and see if the connectivity varies between summer and winter conditions as well as between spring and neap tide. A numerical model based on tidal forcing was constructed to study the dispersion. Connectivity matrixes were constructed as well as several distribution maps of the mean age and weighted infectious time. Results indicate a complex connectivity network with highly variable connection patterns between salmon farms in the Faroe Islands. Farms could be identified as being emitters, receivers or isolated. And we were able to identify key farms in the connectivity network. A complex dispersion circulation was also identified. There were some noteworthy differences between L. salmonis released during summer and winter as well as between neap and spring tide. The second aim of this thesis was to see if the obtained information could contribute to a Faroese treatment management plan. Farms identified asemitters should be strictly managed to prevent unnecessary external infection pressure on other farms. Farms located in exposed areas can act as catalysers amplifying the connection in the whole farm network system. The obtained information emphasized that a holistic approach is needed in any treatment management plan for the Faroe Islands to ensure steady and sustainable growth of the industry.
| Date of Award | 2016 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Ken H. Andersen (Supervisor), André W. Visser (Supervisor) & Knud Simonsen (Supervisor) |
Keywords
- Aquaculture, sea lice, tides