Benchmark’s new Iceland incubator ‘on track’

Benchmark Genetics says construction of its new incubation centre in Iceland is on track for completion this summer.

The new facility, which will have an annual capacity of 300 million Atlantic salmon ova, is being built next to Benchmark’s existing broodstock and incubation centre in Vogarvik, on the southwest coast.

The new facility will hold 10.000 single incubators, of which each will have eggs from a single female fish. The aim is to supply the growing global market for land-based salmon farming. It is planned to be in operation from mid-June this year.

Danish supplier AKVA is supplying the equipment, and a local entrepreneur is in charge of the construction.

“The new incubation centre is based on the existing production philosophy of Benchmark, to ensure the highest levels of biosecurity and supply of high-quality and genetically improved eggs all year round”, said Dr Jonas Jonasson, Head of Production in Benchmark Genetics and the CEO of the Icelandic operations.

Benchmark Genetics Iceland HF (formerly StofnFiskur HF) was founded in 1991 and was the first breeding company holding its Atlantic salmon strain on land for the complete life cycle.