Striped bass (Morone saxatilis) and their hybrid crosses are important aquaculture species in the USA, raised in recirculating aquaculture systems and ponds. Their welfare in farming is influenced by their active, migratory nature and sensitivity to dissolved oxygen and temperature.
Striped bass in recirculating aquaculture systems face welfare challenges from the suppression of migratory instincts. Their large size — reaching 10+ kg in culture — and active swimming requirements mean that tank volumes adequate for smaller species are insufficient for their welfare. Territorial aggression at high stocking densities causes scale loss and eye injuries. Dissolved oxygen management is critical: brief hypoxic events cause acute stress responses measurable through cortisol and behaviour. Pre-slaughter welfare improvements include gradual crowding reduction before harvest and electrical stunning before manual killing. Wild-caught striped bass from recreational fisheries face catch-and-release welfare considerations including barotrauma in deep-caught fish.