Abalone farming in land-based systems raises welfare questions about this high-value mollusc, with disease, crowding and handling practices warranting precautionary attention.
The sentience status of abalone as gastropod molluscs is uncertain, though they respond to noxious stimuli through behaviour. Crowding in raceways reduces growth and increases disease transmission. Withering syndrome causes progressive muscle wasting over months before death — an extended welfare harm even under precautionary frameworks. Optimal tank density, water quality and disease prevention are welfare-positive management practices that also protect production.