Environmental enrichment for farmed fish is an emerging field challenging the assumption that fish welfare is purely about disease and survival. Providing stimulation in aquaculture improves welfare measurably.
Farmed fish enrichment is one of the most promising and underinvested areas of aquaculture welfare. Fish in more complex environments show better welfare indicators and often better production outcomes. The barrier is cultural — the assumption that fish do not benefit from enrichment is hard to shift despite clear contrary evidence. Consumer pressure for welfare-certified aquaculture specifying enrichment standards, regulatory requirements and industry leadership are all needed.