Aquaculture

Atlantic Halibut Welfare in Aquaculture

Atlantic halibut is a large flatfish increasingly farmed in Norway and Scotland, with welfare considerations around their unique biology, stocking density and handling.

Key Facts

Atlantic halibut is the largest flatfish species, growing to over 200kg in the wild
Farming requires very cold, clean, well-oxygenated water typical of Norwegian fjords
Flatfish have specific behavioural needs including substrate access and low-light preferences
Halibut are territorial and aggressive, requiring careful density management
Stunning before slaughter is standard practice in responsible halibut farms

Welfare Considerations

Halibut welfare in farming is influenced by their need to rest on flat substrates, which conventional round tanks may not adequately provide. High stocking densities cause aggression and fin damage. Cold water requirements mean facilities must maintain strict temperature control. Pre-harvest stress and stunning methods significantly affect welfare at slaughter. Disease management, particularly for parasites, requires careful handling.

What You Can Do

Choose halibut from farms with high welfare certifications
Support research into optimal tank design for flatfish welfare
Advocate for welfare standards specific to flatfish species
Promote stunning before slaughter as standard practice for all farmed fish
Support science-based aquaculture welfare standards development