Origin analysis of salmon caught in rivers

A total of 22 salmon have been received by the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute, and samples from them have been sent for genetic analysis. Of these, seven fish have been confirmed as farmed salmon, while 15 were found to be wild. The farmed salmon were caught in the Haukadals river, Hrútafjarðar river, Vatnsdals river, and Miðfjarðar river. Reports have been received of an additional six salmon with characteristics of farmed fish.

Tracing of the confirmed farmed salmon is ongoing, and results still indicate a common origin for six salmon from Dýrafjörður. It appears that one confirmed farmed salmon has a different origin, and an investigation into the origin of that fish has begun. The three institutions continue to collaborate on the investigation and will provide information as further results become available.

It remains important to monitor closely whether more salmon with farmed characteristics appear in rivers, and anglers are specifically asked to be vigilant for signs of farmed origin in caught salmon. Further information about characteristics of farmed fish can be seen in an image from the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute.

If a salmon with farmed characteristics is caught, the angler is requested to deliver the fish whole to the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute for examination and genetic analysis.