Rainbow trout are one of the most widely farmed freshwater fish - what are the main welfare challenges and how can they be addressed?
Rainbow trout welfare challenges center on the mismatch between their needs as active, territorial, solitary (outside breeding) fish and the high-density environments of commercial aquaculture. Wild trout establish territories and perform extensive daily movements - captive trout cannot. High stocking densities cause escalating aggression resulting in fin and body injuries. Poor water quality from high biomass compromises health and behavior. The silver lining is that trout welfare science is more advanced than for many other farmed fish species, with several certification schemes incorporating welfare standards.