Lab testing seeking an environmentally-friendly solution to control sea lice in open finfish production could see an ultrasound solution developed.
The LiceSonic research project, which aims to develop a system that targets sea lice by combining ultrasound technology and water quality and fish monitoring, has had positive results in its first lab tests.
Started by a European consortium and coordinated by LG Sonic, the project focuses on ultrasound technology as it controls algae and biofouling effectively without causing damages to the environment.
The project’s first feasibility study resulted in a reduction of 60% in attached sea lice to salmon by using ultrasound technology combined with fish and water quality monitoring. Different ultrasonic sound wave frequencies will ensure sea lice develop no resistance to the ultrasonic control method.
Yearly economic damages caused by sea lice exceeds €1bn reduced production and pharmacological treatment costs. Innovations in sea lice control are needed as using bioactive substances is becoming less efficient. In addition, the process cannot be further increased as wild salmon populations and the ecosystem need protection.
The project consortium is formed by LG Sonic, Control Data Systems (CDS) and Sonic Norway.
