Atlantic halibut aquaculture is growing in Norway and the UK, presenting welfare challenges from this large, slow-growing flatfish species.
Halibut welfare presents specific challenges related to their flatfish biology and long production cycle. Juvenile halibut undergo metamorphosis from pelagic to benthic lifestyle, a developmental transition that, if disrupted, causes abnormal pigmentation and feeding difficulties. Jaw malformations from early feeding problems impair lifetime feeding ability and cause chronic welfare compromise. Long production cycles mean welfare problems compound over years. Halibut are sensitive to handling and crowding, with clear cortisol stress responses. The high market value of halibut provides economic incentive for welfare investment that aligns commercial and welfare interests.