Arctic char

Brook trout (also known as Arctic char) with the ASC label is farmed in flow-through systems in Iceland and Italy.

This species is certified under the ASC trout standard, which became available in 2014. The certification not only ensures that more sustainable feed is used, but also that measures are taken to reduce negative environmental impacts. These include escapes, irresponsible use of medicines and chemicals, and pollution of surrounding waters. These measures are enforced through strict independent audits to which the farms are subject. ASC-certified brook trout is produced responsibly, with respect for the environment and society.

Fish in season

This assessment concerns farmed fish. The season is therefore not relevant.

The latest assessment of this farm was in 2018.

The farming of Arctic char in Iceland is performing well. The species is mainly farmed in flow-through systems on land and grows well under these conditions.

The farms are located in areas with low ecological sensitivity, limiting their impact on habitats. Escapes are uncommon, but escaped fish can compete with wild populations because they have been bred in captivity for several generations. Diseases and parasites are rarely a problem and the use of chemicals is limited. The feed contains relatively high levels of fish oil, but a significant proportion of the marine ingredients consists of by-products from fish processing.

Management is considered largely effective. Discharges and environmental impacts are regulated, and environmental impact assessments are mandatory for new farms. The regulations are extensive, but also complex due to the involvement of many different government authorities.

The species is farmed in nets in lakes (cages) and there has been a breeding programme in place for several decades. The farming has a moderate environmental impact. Nutrient discharge can reduce water quality and the farms have a moderate impact on the surrounding environment. Escapes are uncommon, but the risk and potential consequences are considered moderate to high. The species is relatively resistant to disease, although transmission of BKD and salmon lice to wild fish can occur. There is insufficient data available on the use of chemicals. The feed contains fishmeal and fish oil, but the origin of the raw materials is largely traceable.

Management is considered largely effective. There are no Aquaculture Improvement Programs (AIPs) or independent sustainability certifications available for Arctic char.

The latest assessment of this fishery was in 2017.

The status of brook trout stocks in Swedish inland waters is moderate. Most catches come from Lake Vättern. Due to limited data, it is unclear whether current fishing pressure is sustainable, although landings appear to have increased slightly since 2011.

The fishery using handlines and pole-lines has little bycatch of vulnerable (ETP) species. Discards are not well documented, but non-target species and juvenile fish are usually released alive. There is insufficient long-term information on survival after release. Handlines and pole-lines do not cause damage to the seabed and the impact on the ecosystem is limited.

Management differs between water bodies and is carried out by the owner of the respective water body. As a result, the effectiveness of management as a whole cannot be properly assessed.