As Atlantic halibut farming develops commercially, welfare refinements specific to this benthic flatfish are being researched and implemented. Understanding species-specific needs is essential for good welfare outcomes.
Atlantic halibut welfare refinements are at an early stage compared to salmon, but the scientific foundation is building. Substrate provision is the most straightforward and impactful refinement — these benthic fish need surfaces to rest on and will compete aggressively for limited resting space at high densities. Feeding behavior in halibut differs from pelagic species: they ambush prey from the substrate, so conventional broadcast feeding is less suitable than directed delivery to the tank floor. Slaughter welfare needs specific attention for this species — cold stunning without prior insensibility causes prolonged distress, and percussive or electrical stunning systems need adaptation for the flat body morphology.