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Halibut, Atlantic (Hippoglossus hippoglossus)

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Common name - Halibut, Atlantic
Scientific name - Hippoglossus hippoglossus
Rating
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Farmed
Production method Onshore open circuit systems
Production country Europe
Production area Scotland
Summary
Atlantic halibut is widely farmed although in small quantities compared to other species. Unlike salmon and cod, halibut can be farmed in closed tanks as well as in open pens. Choose halibut farmed in closed, shore based production systems such as those used in Scotland, as environmental impacts of production are mitigated. Halibut do have a large dependency on fish to form the majority of their diet, and the fish required to make their feed cannot be guaranteed to come from a sustainable supply. Look for organic farmed fish that can offer this assurance, where available. Scottish production is independently addressing this feed concern, making it a good choice.
Biology
Atlantic halibut is a thick-set, right-eyed (both eyes on the right-hand side of the body) flat fish. It lives in deep, cold waters and is slow-growing. It can attain a length of 2.5m. Spawning occurs during winter and early spring. Atlantic halibut become sexually mature at 10-14 years and can live over 50 years.
Production Information
The production of fish using onshore-based, controlled seawater flow-through systems addresses the issues of environmental concern that can arise from open water production as interaction with, and therefore impact on, the environment is prevented. The negative effects that can be associated with open water systems such as uncontrolled discharges, escapes of farmed fish, transfer of disease and parasites, habitat damage and adverse effects for local wildlife are prevented by the containment systems in use.
Alternatives
(Based on method of production, fish type, and consumer rating: only fish rated 3 and below are included.)
Read what the consumer pages of the Good Fish Guide say about this species.