Why are there deformed fish in salmon pens?

In any animal population, some individuals are born with deformities, experience stunted growth, or sustain injuries—fish are no exception. While rare, the protection of a farm environment allows some of these deformed fish to survive, unlike in the wild, where natural selection would eliminate them at a much higher rate.

British Columbia’s aquaculture industry operates under some of the most rigorous environmental and quality standards in the world, ensuring that farmed fish are healthy, well-managed, and responsibly raised. Fish farms in BC play a crucial role in providing a sustainable source of protein while reducing pressure on wild fish stocks.

By implementing advanced farming practices, including selective breeding, controlled environments, and continuous monitoring, the industry produces high-quality seafood while minimizing environmental impact.

Whenever possible, we remove deformed fish from the population, ensuring that only fish meeting the highest quality standards make it to market.

The images of deformed or undersized fish that have circulated in the media were selectively taken from hundreds of hours of footage by activists trespassing on Marine Harvest worksites in BC.

These images do not accurately reflect the overall health and quality of farmed fish, nor do they represent the industry’s commitment to responsible aquaculture.

Through innovation, research, and strict regulatory oversight, BC’s aquaculture industry continues to lead in sustainability, food security, and economic contributions to coastal communities.