Asian sea bass (barramundi) farmed across Southeast Asia and Australia faces welfare challenges from crowding, disease management and varied slaughter practices.
Asian sea bass in crowded pond or cage systems experience chronic stress responses measurable through cortisol and immune function. VNN outbreaks cause neurological signs — whirling, dark colouration and mass mortality — representing both acute welfare harm and production loss. In markets where live transport is standard, fish may be held in poor conditions for extended periods. Australian indoor RAS producers have led welfare improvements including pre-slaughter stunning adoption across the industry.