Morphology and transcriptome of Atlantic salmon skin after seawater transfer, comparison of a semi-closed containment system and open net-pen

Development of semi-closed containment systems is a promising strategy to further expand Atlantic salmon production. The technology operates with higher production intensities where skin integrity is recognized as a central factor for animal health and welfare. This study investigate the skin development and its immune status in healthy Atlantic salmon growers reared in a semi-closed containment system and a traditional open net-pen system (control). Salmon smots (PLCS) were transferred to a control open cage (C) and a semi-closed containment system (Preline - PL). Skin samples were collected from smolts in freshwater and after one and four months in seawater