The lab is located at the Nofima research station at Sunndalsøra and is closely involved in the station's research activities.
Specialities and services
Carotenoid research
A scientist with a Dr.ing degree heads the research programme in carotenoid chemistry. The institute has been involved in this type of research since 1982. The routine methods for identifying carotenoids in feed ingredients, feed and tissue employ liquid chromatographic separation. We have two HPLC systems for this purpose and a specialised laboratory for extractions and work on flammable and potentially explosive solvents. Facilities for working with measuring techniques for radioactivity and advanced separation methods enable us to carry out methodological development in carotenoid metabolism. We have the necessary lab equipment such as a high-speed centrifuge and a scintillation counter to assist us in this work.
Feed evaluation and nutritional studies
Feed evaluation trials are carried out through a combination of production experiments, digestibility studies, respirometry and histopathological examinations.
Specially designed tanks at the station are used in experiments where the fish's oxygen consumption and production of CO2, ammonia and urea are measured. Electrodes and a modified autoanalyser system for on-line measurements are used.
The laboratory personnel assist the researchers and the technicians in this work. Our scientific expertise in this field provides Nofima with an effective tool for conducting fundamental studies of protein and energy metabolism in fish. A scientist with a Dr.Scient. degree heads the institute's research programme in the histopathological field. We have world-class scientific expertise in interpreting samples, and have the equipment necessary for preparing histological samples for examination under an optical microscope.
The lab performs important types of routine chemical analyses for protein, lipids with or without hydrolysis, starch, ash, dry matter, inert indicators and energy. We also have facilities for freeze-drying samples on site.
Fish experiments and operational services for the research station
As part of the quality assurance process for fish and water resources, we perform pH and CO2 measurements in the water, and measure chloride levels in the blood of fish tested for smoltification status. Other types of analyses conducted include measurements of sodium, potassium, osmolality and glucose, and analysis using various haematological and clinical chemistry methods.
