The European eel is a critically endangered species with complex welfare considerations spanning wild capture, aquaculture, and conservation management.
Eel welfare encompasses both wild and farmed individuals. Wild glass eel capture for aquaculture removes animals from populations that are already severely depleted. In aquaculture, eels are housed in recirculating systems at high densities and may exhibit stereotypic behaviors. Slaughter methods for eels require attention as they show delayed loss of consciousness. The species' critically endangered status raises ethical questions about aquaculture based on wild-caught juveniles. Welfare and conservation imperatives are deeply intertwined for this species.