New training helps aquaculture workers tackle harmful algal blooms

New training helps aquaculture workers detect and manage harmful algal blooms, protecting fish health amid rising ocean temperatures

A new online training program was launched to help aquaculture workers better respond to the growing threat of harmful algal blooms (HABs), which are increasingly linked to rising water temperatures and pose significant risks to fish health and welfare.

Developed by Lantra, the skills and training organization for the land-based and environmental sectors, the course provides standardized procedures for identifying, recording and responding to HABs in open coastal waters. The program is open to anyone in the aquaculture sector and is designed to ensure consistent practices across organizations.

“The adoption of standard operating procedures will mean that the entire aquaculture sector can move towards uniform data collection and reporting regarding HABs,” said Jillian Couto-Phoenix, head of aquaculture at Lantra. “Improved access to information can then inform early warning systems and treatment options, helping farmers to adapt to a changing climate and ultimately improve the outcomes for their fish.”

The standardized procedure was initially developed via the climate change working group of Scotland’s Farmed Fish Health Framework, which included members from academia, industry and SEPA, the environmental regulator.

“This is the first aquaculture e-learning course of this kind for Lantra, which opens up a whole host of future possibilities for delivering skills to the sector,” said Couto-Phoenix. “HABs as the base, we can now develop new programs quickly and reach people all over, particularly those in more rural and remote locations who can participate without needing to travel or take time out from work.”

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Initially offered free of charge, the course outlines clear steps for sampling and identifying key harmful algal species, assessing risk levels using a traffic light system, and applying reporting calculations. The flexible, on-demand format allows learners to complete modules at their own pace, with official certification awarded upon completion.

“We understand the challenges that come with identifying microscopic species,” said. “Our ambition is to give people the knowledge and confidence in reporting algal blooms, as well as having support with the necessary calculations for identifying outbreaks,” said Couto-Phoenix. “So far, we have received a great deal of interest in the training program from global companies, trout producers and Scottish salmon farms, and we are looking forward to seeing the first wave of participants completing the course.”

Developed in collaboration with the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) and the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), the training was funded by Defra’s UK Seafood Fund and shaped by input from Salmon Scotland, major producers and the RSPCA to ensure practical, science-based content aligned with industry needs.

“Harmful algal blooms pose a significant challenge to fish health and welfare, so we welcome the delivery of this training by Lantra,” said Sean Black, senior scientific and policy officer – aquaculture at the RSPCA. “Proactive monitoring of the environment for harmful algae is crucial in protecting farmed fish and having a dedicated training course and standard operating procedures will improve monitoring and reporting.  The format and content of the course should enable farmers all over the country to benefit, which is a positive for both farmers and fish.”

Access the training material here.

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