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Investigation of cranial and spinal deformities in Atlantic salmon smolts from Chile immediately after sea transfer, over two successive crops, demonstrated ankylosis of the mandibular articulation, spinal foreshortening, fracture of vertebrae and rarefaction of osseous and cartilaginous tissues including the operculum. As a result the mouth was permanently agape and opercula could be folded back on themselves. All affected fish had been transferred to sea water at 20 °C plus and fed on particular commercial diets. Fish in cooler areas, or on diets high in vitamin C and phosphorus in the high temperature zone, were clinically normal. The condition has not recurred following dietary adjustment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]