Arctic charr is a cold-water salmonid adapted to clear mountain lakes, farmed as a premium product in Iceland, Scandinavia, and Canada, with welfare considerations related to its specific thermal and environmental requirements.
Arctic charr are particularly sensitive to thermal stress; water temperatures above 16 degrees Celsius cause significant mortality and welfare compromise. Climate change is warming charr production lakes in some regions, creating management challenges. The territorial nature of charr creates social stress in cage culture if stocking density prevents individuals from maintaining personal space. The pristine, cold water environment charr evolved in contrasts sharply with intensive cage culture conditions, requiring careful management of water quality and social structure to maintain welfare.