Production optimization for enhanced sustainability of Arctic charr culture in the Northern region

Joining forces across the region, the plan is to develop new rearing methods and protocols by applying environmental manipulation of rearing temperature and photoperiod in order to increase productivity leading to maximum growth rate, improved feed effici ency and reduced maturation. The results from this project will reveal the best conditions for growing of Arctic charr and will aid in future planning and expansion of the farming industry in the Northern region and hence encourage investors to finance ne w farms with positive effects in rural areas of the Nordic region. Specific applied objectives (a) To document the effects of rearing temperature on growth and feed conversion in Arctic charr from the juvenile stage and through the on-growing phase. ( b) To document the effects of photoperiod manipulation on the growth, feed conversion, and maturation rates of Arctic charr. (c) To document how an individual?s growth response to variations in rearing temperature is affected by genetic background and de gree of domestication. (d) To study and document the effects of environmental manipulation on the slaughter quality of Arctic charr. (e) To formulate a cohesive strategy for reducing production time and costs while increasing the overall efficiency and production of Arctic charr farming. The objectives of the current proposal will be achieved through a series of laboratory and large scale experiments, and the project will provide a scientific rationale for the establishment of effective husbandry stra tegies to optimize production and accelerate growth of Arctic charr in land-based rearing systems.