Farmed Salmon in Rivers in Western and Northern Iceland

A total of 19 salmon from rivers in Western and Northern Iceland have been sent for genetic analysis. Results have been received for 11 salmon caught in Haukadals river on 14th and 15th of August, of which 8 were found to be wild, while three salmon are confirmed to be from fish farms. Eight salmon are still in the analysis process, including seven collected by Norwegian divers.

A report regarding two salmon was received over the weekend from the area in question. Although it is not desirable for farmed salmon to be found in rivers, the current situation is not considered serious as few farmed salmon have been caught. It is important to closely monitor whether more salmon with farm characteristics appear in rivers, and anglers are specifically asked to be alert for farm characteristics in caught salmon. More information about the characteristics of farmed fish can be seen in an image from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute.

If a salmon with farm characteristics is caught, it is still requested that the angler delivers the fish whole to the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute for research and genetic analysis.

The institutions will collaboratively publish further news as new data becomes available, especially if the assessment of the severity of the situation changes.