Remote Sensing of Sea Surface Temperatures for Aquaculture Planning in Northern Norway

A major limitation for salmon (Salmo salar L.) farming in arctic environments is the low winter temperatures influencing the salmon's growth rates, mortality and quality. A detailed knowledge of the sea temperature variations in a region can help to avoid the establishment of fish farms in areas that are less suitable. In order to supply local fish farmers and planning authorities with such information, a satellite survey of sea surface temperatures in a late winter situation was conducted in northern Norway. Landsat Thematic Mapper data were calibrated with in situ measurements. The relationship between sea surface temperatures and other factors in the physical environment was visualized in a very comprehensive way. Temperature zones were found to be consistent with information in literature and of relevance to the fish farming industry. New, potentially suitable sites for fish farming could be indicated in many areas where no historical data were available.