Captive broodstock sea bass used in hatchery production experience specific welfare challenges from long-term captivity and the stress of reproduction management.
Sea bass broodstock experience welfare challenges from the combination of long-term captivity and the physiological demands of repeated reproduction. Repeated spawning induction through photoperiod manipulation and handling for egg collection imposes cyclical welfare costs. Handling stress during stripping operations is unavoidable with current techniques. Long-term captive sea bass show reduced aggression hierarchies compared to newly captured wild fish, suggesting adaptation, but also reduced responsiveness to environmental stimuli that may indicate reduced welfare. The development of less invasive reproduction techniques and improved broodstock environments would reduce these welfare costs while maintaining hatchery productivity.