Genetic assignment as a tool to identify the origin for Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) escapees in Norwegian fjords

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The Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.) represents one of the most economically important fishes in the north Atlantic. However, serious declines in abundance have been observed in many wild stocks, a situation which has stimulated the increasing global interest for cod farming. In Norway, which is one of the largest producing countries, current aquaculture production is approximately 7500 tons. This industry has considerable potential to expand, and the Norwegian government has issued sufficient farming licenses to enable a commercial production of approximately 300 000 tons.