Perch, pike and zander are increasingly farmed in recirculating aquaculture systems across Europe, raising important welfare questions about handling, stocking, and slaughter.
Farmed perch and zander face welfare challenges typical of predatory fish in captivity: chronic stress from high stocking densities, injuries from conspecific aggression, and inadequate slaughter protocols. These species have evolved as ambush predators with complex spatial needs poorly matched to tank environments. Welfare science for these commercially minor species is underdeveloped relative to salmonids, leaving farmers without clear guidance. Improved water quality monitoring, reduced stocking densities, and adoption of electrical stunning at harvest represent key priorities.