Turbot and Dover sole are premium European flatfish species with specialist welfare challenges related to their benthic lifestyle and requirements for solid substrate.
Flatfish welfare in aquaculture requires specific attention to their benthic biology. Flatfish deprived of appropriate substrate cannot rest in their natural position, causing chronic postural stress and skin damage. Tank and raceway designs that provide appropriate substrate coverage significantly improve welfare outcomes. Turbot stocking density management is critical as overcrowding causes skin abrasions, aggression, and feeding competition stress. Sole have particularly specialised welfare needs and are notoriously difficult to culture, with stress during handling causing significant mortality. Developing species-appropriate husbandry guidelines for premium flatfish species is an important welfare research priority.