Abalone are increasingly farmed in land-based recirculating systems in South Africa, Australia and Asia. Their welfare in these systems depends on appropriate substrate, algal food provision and water quality.
Abalone welfare in land-based systems depends on providing conditions that allow expression of natural grazing behaviour. Abalone denied access to appropriate substrate and algal food become lethargic and may develop lesions on the foot from unsuitable surfaces. Natural feeding motivation requires adequate algal provision throughout each day. Temperature management is critical as temperature affects both metabolic rate and immune function. The welfare status of abalone under evolving sentience frameworks remains uncertain, but the precautionary principle suggests that practices that might cause suffering warrant attention. Ensuring appropriate environmental conditions imposes minimal cost relative to the potential welfare benefit.