Estimation of direct costs associated with cataracts in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)

A spreadsheet model that has been standardised for use across different livestock species and diseases, was utilised to estimate the direct costs of cataracts in farmed fish, using the Norwegian farmed salmon industry segment as an example. The data input for the model was obtained from previously published information and also from a small survey specifically carried out to obtain the additional data that were required. The annual direct costs of cataracts was estimated to be 27.9 million Euros (maximum 55.0, minimum 0.7). This estimate would suggest that cataracts in farmed salmon merits a top priority rating in terms of livestock research priorities at national and European level.