Salmonid Jumping and Playing: Potential Cultural and Welfare Implications

Area of Science:

• Ethology
• Aquaculture Science
• Animal Behavior

Background:

• Salmonids and other fish species exhibit aerial jumping from water.
• This behavior is utilized in net pen culture to manage parasitic sea lice infestations.
• Current research primarily focuses on Atlantic salmon in Northwest European net pens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the multifaceted reasons behind salmonid jumping behavior.
• To highlight the need for broader research perspectives, including indigenous knowledge and direct observation.
• To consider the potential of play as a functional outcome of salmonid jumping.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing research on salmonid jumping behavior.
• Analysis of anecdotal evidence and cultural observations.
• Ethological direct observation principles.

Main Results:

• Salmonid jumping is a heterogeneous behavior with varied functional outcomes.
• The specific drivers for salmonid jumping remain largely speculative.
• Jumping behavior in salmonids may, in some instances, represent a form of play.

Conclusions:

• Understanding salmonid jumping requires integrating diverse scientific and cultural knowledge.
• Further research is essential to elucidate the complex functions of this behavior.
• The hypothesis that some salmonid jumping is play warrants further investigation.