Tilapia are among the most widely farmed fish globally, particularly in developing countries. Their welfare under intensive conditions deserves attention given their growing importance as a global protein source.
Tilapia welfare in intensive aquaculture receives less attention than salmon or trout welfare despite their enormous global production volume. The hardiness of tilapia can create a false impression that they are insensitive to welfare-relevant conditions. High stocking densities, poor water quality, and hormonal sex reversal all raise welfare concerns that have not been adequately researched. As tilapia production continues to grow, particularly in Asia and Africa, developing species-specific welfare standards and promoting adoption of best practices is important to ensure that welfare is considered from the outset rather than retrofitted as the industry matures.