About the Department of Aquatic Resources

The Department of Aquatic Resources (SLU Aqua) study the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems and how they are affected by environment and human activity. We monitor and assess seas, coastal waters, lakes and watercourses, conduct research with a focus on fish and shellfish and support society with expert advice. Our knowledge contributes to a more sustainable use and management of our aquatic resources. The department is SLU's largest and has more than 190 employees at three main locations: Lysekil, Öregrund and Stockholm.

For viable fish stocks in healthy waters

SLU Aqua is characterized by intensive dialogue and collaboration with public authorities, organisations, industry and academia. This creates a vital research environment and gives us unique opportunities to develop knowledge with high societal impact. If you want to collaborate with us, please get in touch.

The world's marine and freshwater fish resources and the exploitation of these resources face major challenges. SLU Aqua collaborates with several organizations active in low- and middle income countries to strengthen an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management. Our work contributes to the Global Goals of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.
Read more about or international development cooperation

Marine research

The Institute of Marine Research works with commercially important species such as cod, herring, and shrimp. A large part of monitoring takes place within the EU data collection framework and ICES. The department studies how marine ecosystems are affected by fishing and top predators, perform stock assessment and develop selective fishing gear.

Coastal research

The Institute of Coastal Research focus on coastal ecosystems. The division assesses the coastal environment by monitoring and analyzing fish such as perch, whitefish, pikeperch and pike, performing recipient control for nuclear power plants, developing fishing gear for small-scale fishing and researching how climate change affects fish communities.

Freshwater research

The Institute of Freshwater Research monitors and produces knowledge about the environment and fish stocks in lakes and watercourses. The division employs experts on migratory fish species such as salmon and eel and freshwater species such as pikeperch and crayfish. A large part of the research focuses on how genetic mechanisms affect organisms' adaptation to their habitat.

Our research facilities

With us, you can study fish in natural conditions in aquariums, ponds and in running water. Our Fish Genetics Laboratory (FiskGen) and our age laboratories carry out analyzes on commission.

Published: 05 July 2021 - Page editor: sofia.bureborn@slu.se

SLU and the greenhouse gas inventory

Strong fish stocks - healthy waters

About the Department of Aquatic Resources

For viable fish stocks in healthy waters

Marine research

Coastal research

Freshwater research

Our research facilities

Department of Aquatic Resources (SLU Aqua)

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