Giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) larvae are produced in brackish water hatcheries before being reared in freshwater ponds. Larval welfare presents unique challenges.
Larval welfare science for decapod crustaceans is at an early stage. The precautionary principle suggests minimising unnecessary stressors even at larval stages where sentience is most uncertain. High cannibalism rates indicate density-dependent welfare issues even without confirmed subjective experience. Larval rearing protocols that maintain water quality, reduce density, and provide enrichment in the form of substrate minimise stress indicators including abnormal swimming behaviour and failure to feed.