Photoperiod manipulation is widely used in seabream aquaculture to accelerate growth, but its welfare implications require careful assessment.
Abnormal photoperiod schedules can disrupt seabream circadian rhythms, feeding behaviour, and endocrine function. Precocious maturation triggered by inappropriate light schedules causes reproductive physiology changes that may be stressful. Altered sleep-wake cycles could impair recovery and immune function. Welfare-conscious light management considers both production needs and fish biological requirements, maintaining natural light-dark cycles where possible.