Aquaculture

Tiger Prawn Welfare in Extensive and Intensive Aquaculture Systems

Tiger prawns are farmed extensively across Southeast Asia and Africa, with welfare standards varying widely between extensive pond and intensive system management.

Key Facts

Tiger prawns are the second most important farmed prawn species globally after whiteleg shrimp
Extensive mangrove pond systems allow more natural behaviour but are ecologically controversial
Intensive systems achieve higher yields but increase stress from crowding and handling
Eyestalk ablation of broodstock females to induce spawning causes significant pain
ASC certification requires welfare-friendly alternatives to eyestalk ablation

Welfare Considerations

Tiger prawn welfare is compromised in intensive systems by chronic crowding stress, poor water quality, and disease pressure. Eyestalk ablation, the removal of one eye to induce spawning through stress in broodstock females, is particularly concerning from a welfare standpoint. Alternatives including hormonal induction and improved environmental conditions for maturation are being developed but not yet universally adopted.

What You Can Do

Choose ASC or equivalent certified tiger prawns where available
Ask suppliers about eyestalk ablation policies in their broodstock operations
Support research into non-ablation spawning induction methods
Advocate for eyestalk ablation to be phased out across the industry