Managing feeding in aquaculture to prevent both chronic hunger from underfeeding and welfare compromise from feed competition between individuals represents an ongoing challenge in fish welfare.
Fish denied adequate feed experience the welfare impact of chronic hunger, which drives competition, aggression, and stress in social groups. Underfeeding to reduce ammonia and water quality costs saves money in the short term but compromises fish welfare and long-term productivity. Welfare-conscious aquaculture uses demand feeding systems that match fish appetite to food availability.