European seabass is one of the most important Mediterranean aquaculture species, with growing evidence that its welfare in cage and tank systems requires significant improvement.
European seabass in intensive sea cages show elevated stress biomarkers, fin damage, and abnormal shoaling patterns indicating welfare compromise. Ice slurry slaughter involves prolonged consciousness during a distressing process. The species is fast-swimming and wide-ranging in nature, making confinement inherently challenging for welfare. Consumer demand growth has outpaced welfare standard development.