Catfish and tilapia are among the world's most farmed fish, with welfare profiles that receive less attention than salmon despite large production volumes.
Tilapia and catfish are often presented as more welfare-friendly alternatives to salmon farming because they tolerate higher temperatures, lower oxygen, and higher stocking densities. However, tolerance does not mean optimal welfare. Crowded tilapia show increased aggression, fin damage, and stress responses. Catfish in intensive ponds suffer from oxygen depletion events that cause acute distress. The welfare case for these species is that good management — maintaining water quality, appropriate stocking, and humane slaughter — is achievable at reasonable cost. The welfare default is typically poor because these species are culturally viewed as less morally significant than salmon.