Smolt Co., Ltd.

Breeding fish for changing water conditions

Smolt uses selective breeding to develop cherry salmon suited to warmer water. The company says its program has reached seven generations without gene editing or genetic modification, and has produced fish able to grow in water around 24°C. It supplies salmon seed stock and works with aquaculture businesses to raise fish in freshwater and marine settings.

The business also sells cherry salmon and Tsukimi Ikura, a processed salmon-roe product, and collaborates with regional producers on branded fish. Its model pairs breeding and production know-how with partner farms, allowing existing aquaculture operators to use their facilities for salmon production as conditions and supply pressures change.