Sea trout reared in aquaculture experience welfare challenges during the smoltification transition, marine phase rearing, and capture, requiring species-specific management approaches.
Sea trout welfare in aquaculture requires understanding of their migratory physiology. Mismatched timing of transfer to sea cages before smoltification is complete causes osmoregulatory stress and immune compromise. In the marine phase, sea lice infestation causes tissue damage, welfare compromise, and secondary infection. Aggression between individuals at high stocking densities causes fin and body injuries. Sensitive timing of marine transfer, optimised stocking density, and effective sea lice management are the key welfare priorities for sea trout aquaculture.