Arctic charr is farmed in specialist cold-water aquaculture systems in the UK and Scandinavia. As a cold-adapted species, its welfare is highly sensitive to temperature and water quality parameters.
Arctic charr welfare in aquaculture depends on maintaining cold, well-oxygenated water within the species' thermal tolerance range. Summer warming in aquaculture facilities where charr are kept above their optimal temperature causes chronic stress, reduced immune function and increased mortality. The species' territorial nature means that high stocking densities create sustained aggression with associated welfare costs including fin damage and inhibited feeding in subordinate fish. Arctic charr farms with lower stocking densities and appropriate water temperature control produce fish with better welfare outcomes as measured by fin condition, cortisol levels and growth rates. The premium market for Arctic charr provides economic incentive for higher welfare production.