May 18, 2026

The final Aquaculture Diploma onsite practicum ends on a high note in the Westfjords!

The final onsite practicum of the year for the Aquaculture Diploma at the University of Hólar took place from April 27 to 29 in the magnificent Westfjords, offering students three intensive and exciting days immersed in the Icelandic aquaculture sector.
Accompanied by Professor Óli and Marie, Teaching Assistant, the students had the opportunity to apply their scientific knowledge in practice and explore many aspects of aquaculture production, from fish farming to product valorisation.

Day 1 – Scientific immersion within a salmon aquaculture farm
The first day was dedicated to an in-depth study within a salmon farming facility. The students carried out extensive practical work as part of their course on aquaculture equipment. Their objective was to understand the role and functioning of the different systems and equipment used in the station, as well as the water flow circuit through these systems. They also conducted fish health assessments and measured numerous water quality parameters at key locations throughout the station, particularly at the inlet and outlet of a selected tank, in order to better understand how water quality parameters influence fish welfare and growth.
The students also participated in a blood sampling workshop on a small fish sample to analyse chloride levels and evaluate smoltification status. These analyses were then correlated with other studied parameters including weight, total length, eye, scale, fin, and gill condition, as well as several additional analyses related to the overall health condition of the fish.

This intensive scientific work allowed the students to strengthen their critical thinking skills and acquire practical competencies essential for their future careers in aquaculture.

Day 2 – Discovering the full aquaculture production chain
The second day gave students the opportunity to visit different facilities linked to aquaculture production, including:
- Atlantic salmon and Arctic charr farms, 
- a company specialised in fish filleting and smoking, 
- as well as an innovative business using salmon skin to produce leather.
These visits provided students with a comprehensive overview of the production chain and highlighted the many opportunities and innovations present within the Icelandic aquaculture industry.

Day 3 – Heading into the fjords: visiting salmon sea cages
To conclude the practicum on a high note, the students spent their final morning at sea observing salmon sea cages installed in one of the fjords of the Westfjords.
This boat trip allowed the group to discover aquaculture infrastructures in a real marine environment and gain a better understanding of how offshore production systems operate in Icelandic fjords.

A memorable conclusion to the year’s practicum
Between scientific analyses, field experience, and meetings with professionals from the sector, this final onsite practicum provided students with a particularly enriching and highly educational experience.
A wonderful way to end the academic year in the field, surrounded by exceptional landscapes and close to the realities of the profession.

By M. Delbasty