Wreckfish (Polyprion americanus) are deep-water species being evaluated for Mediterranean aquaculture. Their welfare in captivity presents unique challenges compared to shallow-water species.
Wreckfish welfare in aquaculture is largely uncharacterised. Their deep-water origin suggests light sensitivity and pressure preference that surface tanks cannot replicate. Long lifespan means welfare impacts of captivity accumulate over extended periods. The economic pressure to farm slow-growing species intensively creates welfare risks. Pre-commercial welfare assessment should be mandatory before scaling wreckfish aquaculture to commercial volumes.