May 08, 2025
For the aquaculture industry, ensuring the health and well-being of farmed fish is paramount. Just like any other living creature, fish can experience health issues, and one common concern in cultured environments is gut enteritis – an inflammation of the intestines.
This condition, while perhaps not immediately obvious, can have significant repercussions for farmed fish like Chinook salmon.
The impacts of gut enteritis on farmed fish
Gut enteritis disrupts the normal processes of digestion and nutrient absorption. In controlled aquaculture settings, this translates to a range of problems with economic, environmental and welfare implications. Affected fish may exhibit reduced growth rates, experience increased mortality, have a lower intake of essential nutrients and become more susceptible to both disease-causing pathogens and environmental stressors.
A key challenge in managing gut enteritis in fish has been detecting it early without resorting to invasive or lethal sampling methods. Scientists believe an imbalance in the gut microbial community, called dysbiosis, plays a role.
To address this challenge, an innovative project funded by Genome BC has brought together researchers at the BC Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences and industry partners: Creative Salmon, an organic Chinook salmon producer; Taplow Ventures Ltd., an organic fish feed producer; and Barry Milligan Aquatic Veterinary Services. Their collaborative goal is to develop and validate a simple, non-lethal fecal test for farmed Chinook salmon.
An early detection system with significant promise
By analyzing the microbial composition of a fish’s feces, researchers aim to identify patterns indicative of gut dysbiosis – an early warning sign of potential enteritis. The presence of an imbalanced gut microbiome can act as a biomarker, signaling that something isn’t quite right within the fish’s digestive system.
By identifying potential gut health issues before they become severe, aquaculture professionals can implement timely interventions. The information gleaned from this fecal test may guide the development of improved feed formulations tailored to promote a healthy gut microbiome. It may also inform the refinement of husbandry strategies, creating a more supportive environment for the fish.
Ultimately, this project aims to boost fish health, make fish farming more efficient and ensure better welfare for the salmon.
Learn more about this important research project: https://www.genomebc.ca/projects/development-of-a-gut-dysbiosis-assay-for-chinook-salmon
