Abalone are complex marine gastropods farmed globally for their meat, with welfare questions emerging from their demonstrably sophisticated nervous systems.
Abalone exposed to noxious chemicals or physical threats show rapid escape responses and defensive behaviour suggesting nociceptive capacity. Farmed abalone in high-density tanks are denied the complex subtidal reef habitats they naturally inhabit. Disease-affected abalone dying from withering syndrome experience progressive starvation as their digestive system fails. Harvesting methods including removal from rocks while alive and subsequent live sale involve significant handling stress. While abalone sentience is scientifically uncertain, the precautionary principle applied to their nervous system complexity suggests welfare consideration is appropriate.