Going with the flow: The rise of hybrid flow-through systems aquaculture

In aquaculture, hybrid flow-through systems (HFS) technology is showing potential to be a profitable and sustainable way to produce salmon and boost supply.

The key question at this point is not whether HFS will demonstrate viability, but rather how quickly production will expand, in what regions, and what long-term implications it will bring for the salmon farming industry.

Led by pioneering projects in Norway and Iceland, HFS salmon aquaculture has the potential to be deployed in other regions, such as Chile, the US, and Canada. However, considerable capital and – more importantly – supportive legislation are needed.

HFS can become a key part of the salmon industry, enabling growth (both directly but also via the production of large post-smolt, which could boost profitability), while simultaneously improving the biosecurity of the entire industry and reducing its environmental impact.