Yellowtail is a high-value farmed marine fish with welfare challenges related to high stocking densities, handling stress and slaughter methods.
Yellowtail are active, fast-swimming predatory fish whose welfare needs are challenging to meet in net pen culture. Restricted space causes abnormal repetitive swimming patterns indicating frustration. Handling during feeding, grading and harvest causes acute stress responses. Ike jime, the traditional Japanese slaughter method, is now recognised as the most humane available for yellowtail, causing instantaneous loss of consciousness. Its adoption beyond Japan would benefit yellowtail welfare globally.