The incident stoked criticism from environmental groups that said escaped salmon jeopardize the vulnerable wild Atlantic salmon population.

Atlantic Canada Fish Farmers Association executive director Susan Farquharson said in a statement Friday that salmon farmers "do not want to lose a single fish." She added salmon farming companies voluntarily report escapes to regulators and others.

"Our farming practices and technology continue to evolve," she said. "Fish containment will always be a top priority as will our wild salmon conservation and enhancement efforts."