The Bacterial Composition of Gut Flora in Wild Fish Populations A Study on How Fish Farming May Impact the Gut Flora of Wild Populations in Swedish Lakes

Fish farming, or aquaculture, is an important industry in Sweden, contributing to food production, recreational fishing, and the preservation of endangered fish populations. In 2023, aquaculture produced 9700 tons of fish, mainly through net cage systems in natural waters. While this method supports economic and ecological goals, it also poses challenges, such as nutrient pollution and the potential spread of diseases between farmed and wild fish. Wild fish play a crucial role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems, but their gut microbiota, key to their health and disease resistance, remains poorly understood. This project explores how fish farming might influence the gut microbiota of wild fish in Swedish lakes, aiming to better understand the interplay between these populations. The research will provide valuable insights into maintaining healthy wild fish stocks while fostering sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices.