Development, validation and testing of an Operational Welfare Score Index for farmed lumpfish Cyclopterus lumpus L

C. Garcia de Leaniz

Abstract

Lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus L.) are widely used for controlling sea lice in salmon farming, but their welfare is often challenged by poor husbandry, stress, and disease outbreaks, which compromise their ability to delouse salmon and cause public concern. It is hence important to identify when the welfare of lumpfish is being compromised in a simple and effective manner so that remedial actions can be taken.