Development and assessment of a biophysical dispersal model for sea lice

Overview
TitleDevelopment and assessment of a biophysical dispersal model for sea lice
AuthorsSalama NK, Collins CM, Fraser JG, Dunn J, Pert CC, Murray AG, Rabe B
TypeJournal Article
Journal NameJournal of fish diseases
Volume36
Issue3
Year2013
Page(s)323-37
CitationSalama NK, Collins CM, Fraser JG, Dunn J, Pert CC, Murray AG, Rabe B. Development and assessment of a biophysical dispersal model for sea lice. Journal of fish diseases. 2013 Mar; 36(3):323-37.

Abstract

Salmon aquaculture in Scotland continues to increase; however, one of the potential limitations to its further sustainable growth is the ectoparasitic sea louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis. The industry in Scotland undertakes coordinated management procedures to control the levels of sea lice on farms in designated production areas. We developed a biophysical sea lice dispersal model for Loch Linnhe, one of the largest fjords on the west coast of Scotland, to provide further information to help establish more effective farm management areas. We successfully extend modelling principles previously applied to a small Scottish fjordic system. Modelling scenarios demonstrate heterogeneity in the distribution of sea lice within the system and simulations, suggesting that lice could be transmitted up to 30 km. The scenarios are assessed by comparing model predictions against lice sampled by both planktonic trawls and settlement on sentinel caged fish. The model predicts the ranked abundance of both planktonic and settled lice assuming that the lice input to the system is relative to host biomass. Data collection is ongoing for undertaking and assessing additional scenarios.

Author Details
Additional information about authors:
Details
1N K G Salama
2C M Collins
3J G Fraser
4J Dunn
5C C Pert
6A G Murray
7B Rabe
Properties
Additional details for this publication include:
Property NameValue
Publication Date2013 Mar
Journal AbbreviationJ. Fish Dis.
DOI10.1111/jfd.12065
Publication ModelPrint-Electronic
ISSN1365-2761
eISSN1365-2761
Copyright© 2013 Crown copyright.
LanguageEnglish
Language Abbreng
Publication TypeJournal Article
Elocation10.1111/jfd.12065
Journal CountryEngland
Publication TypeResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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PMID: PMID:23305449