Aquaculture

Welfare of Farmed Shrimp in Recirculating Systems

Recirculating aquaculture systems for shrimp offer potential welfare improvements over pond farming through better water quality control and biosecurity.

Key Facts

RAS shrimp systems control water quality parameters precisely
Lower disease pressure in RAS systems reduces welfare impacts from outbreaks
Higher stocking densities in some RAS systems create new welfare challenges
RAS eliminates environmental release of effluents benefiting ecosystem welfare
Shrimp Welfare Project is developing welfare criteria for both pond and RAS systems

Welfare Considerations

RAS shrimp farming represents a potential welfare improvement pathway compared to conventional pond farming, with better disease control and water quality. However, the higher investment cost means RAS operators face pressure to increase stocking density, potentially offsetting welfare gains.

What You Can Do

Support Shrimp Welfare Project development of RAS-specific welfare standards
Advocate for density limits in RAS shrimp systems
Choose shrimp from RAS producers with transparent welfare monitoring
Donate to research into optimal shrimp welfare conditions in RAS systems