SmoltVision

These changes can indicate that Smoltification, is underway. Smoltification is a complex process affected by factors, such as light, temperature, water quality as well as genetics.

In recent years, we have seen an increasing need for new and more precise analysis in order to achieve an objective measurement of smoltification. This is due to the rapid development of new production methods in the freshwater sector, such as the production of larger smolt, new light regimes, the increasing use of salt feed and the increasing use of sophisticated recirculation systems.

The Advantages of SmoltVision

Large smolts often adapt to seawater in a less predictable way than regular sized ones. For example they do not always respond to light cues as you would might expect. Under these circumstances Smoltvision can provide more detailed answers than traditional tools can.

SmoltVision, measures the expression of three genes that play an important role in the gills of salmon during smoltification. By distinguishing between the genetic regulation of freshwater ATPase and seawater ATPase, the tool provides an early indication of what stage the fish is moving into prior to active enzyme being present in the gills. Smoltvision is thus a predictor of physiological changes to come, rather than a reporter on them as they happen.

In addition to fresh and seawater ATPase, SmoltVision also monitors the expression of a gene which can reveal underlying factors that may affect the smoltification process, such as disease, gill parasites and problems with water quality. It is worth remembering too - that the same samples used in Smoltvision analysis can also be used to screen for pathogens– thereby saving you time and the need to take additional samples.

Since our start in 2001, PHARMAQ Analytiq has analyzed several hundred thousand smolts. Do you require more information about SmoltVision? Reach out to your dedicated representative.