Razor clams (Ensis species) are being developed as aquaculture species in Europe. Their unique burrowing behaviour and sensitivity to handling present specific welfare challenges.
Razor clam welfare in aquaculture centres on minimising disturbance that triggers burrowing stress responses. Frequent handling for mesh cleaning and grading causes repeated escape behaviour that is energetically costly. The electrical fishing method used for wild harvest involves repeated electrical stimulation — whether this causes pain is uncertain given the state of bivalve sentience research. Precautionary welfare standards for razor clam handling include minimising air exposure and rapid chilling before processing.