Do water temperature and flow affect sea lice development and settlement?

The roles of water temperature, flow, and agitation on the development and settlement of sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) on their Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) hosts were investigated in the laboratory. In the first phase, fish were exposed to 5, 10, or 15 degree C and increased water-flow (18 L/min vs. 6 L/min). In the second phase, fish were exposed to 5, 10, or 15 degree C and increased water agitation 92 h of vigorous bubbling of air each day). At 15 degree C sea lice matured to mobile stages faster and their settlement was influenced by water flow and agitation