Largemouth bass are an invasive species in Europe but also farmed in some southern European countries. Their aggressive predatory nature creates specific welfare management challenges.
Largemouth bass welfare in European aquaculture requires management of their aggressive predatory behaviour. Cannibalism at size-differentiated groups causes injury and mortality requiring intensive management intervention. Their oxygen sensitivity means adequate aeration and lower stocking density are essential. The invasive status in Europe creates a complex regulatory context where production systems must avoid any possibility of escape while meeting welfare standards. As with other predatory species, welfare benchmarks developed for salmonids may need adaptation for largemouth bass.