Black Tiger Shrimp: Welfare in Asian Aquaculture

Key Welfare Facts

Black tiger shrimp are extensively farmed across Asia in both extensive pond and intensive super-intensive systems.
Intensive super-intensive systems maintain extremely high densities with continuous aeration and water exchange.
Early mortality syndrome (EMS) causes catastrophic mortality events through bacterial toxins affecting hepatopancreas.
Ammonia spikes from high feed inputs cause gill damage, stress, and mass mortality in poorly managed systems.
Eyestalk ablation in broodstock females to induce spawning is a routine but painful welfare-compromising practice.
Humane alternatives to eyestalk ablation including environmental manipulation are under research but not yet adopted widely.

Welfare Assessment

Black tiger shrimp welfare is compromised by intensive densities, disease pressure, and painful routine procedures. Supporting welfare-conscious aquaculture certification and research into eyestalk ablation alternatives addresses the most significant welfare concerns.

What You Can Do

Choose shrimp products from certified farms avoiding eyestalk ablation where available
Support research into humane alternatives to eyestalk ablation in shrimp broodstock management
Advocate for stocking density standards and disease management requirements in shrimp certification
Engage with retailers about the welfare standards of shrimp suppliers in their supply chains