Atlantic halibut juvenile rearing requires highly specialised management with significant welfare challenges from sensitive larval stages through early juvenile development.
Atlantic halibut welfare during the extended juvenile rearing period is characterised by extreme sensitivity to management errors. Incorrect water quality at larval stage causes mass mortality. Pigmentation failure indicates nutritional or light management problems. The extended period between larval and juvenile stage creates prolonged opportunities for welfare problems to accumulate. Weaning stress from live prey to formulated feed is a welfare challenge requiring careful management. Investment in halibut hatchery expertise provides the welfare and production benefits that justify the high costs of Atlantic halibut culture.