Sea Lice Threatening Fraser River Sockeye

Source: Georgia Strait Alliance Newsletter April 1, 2009

Image: Georgia Strait Alliance

Recently released genetic analysis has confirmed our fears - Fraser River sockeye may be impacted by sea lice from fish farms. In studies conducted in 2007 and 2008, sea lice were found on juvenile sockeye salmon migrating past open net cage salmon farms in the Northern Strait of Georgia. DNA analysis confirmed that in 2007, 60% of the sockeye were from the Fraser River, while in 2008, 99% were from the Fraser. The samples represent 30 separate Fraser River sockeye sub-populations, including salmon from Adams River and Cultus Lake stocks.

For further information on the latest evidence of the threat to our wild salmon, read the press release sent out by the Georgia Strait Alliance.