Sjøbruk

Sjøbruk, or mariculture, is the cultivation of aquatic organisms in marine environments. It typically occurs in coastal waters and fjords, using net pens or enclosures at sea. Common farmed species include Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, halibut, cod, mussels, oysters, and seaweed.

The industry emerged in the 20th century and expanded rapidly from the 1970s, especially in Norway, which today is a leading producer of farmed salmon. Other major producers include Chile, Scotland, Canada, and Ireland. Production relies on hatcheries, feed, and dedicated farming facilities in sheltered marine areas. Practices range from traditional open-net cages to closed-containment and offshore concepts designed to reduce environmental impacts.

Regulation is national, with licenses, site approvals, and environmental monitoring overseen by fisheries and food safety authorities. Environmental challenges include sea lice, stock escapes, nutrient load, and genetic risks to wild populations. Measures such as fallowing, improved treatments, and research into closed systems are used to address these issues.

Economically, sjøbruk contributes significantly to export revenue and employment along the value chain. It faces price volatility and regulatory changes, while ongoing innovation seeks to improve sustainability, animal welfare, and the integration of shellfish and seaweed farming.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in offshore and more sustainable farming configurations, as well as diversification into shellfish and seaweed farming to complement traditional salmon production and reduce ecological footprint.