Atlantic halibut farming is a growing industry in Norway and Scotland, with distinctive welfare challenges arising from this large, bottom-dwelling predatory fish.
Atlantic halibut face distinctive welfare challenges related to their unique biology. As flatfish, they require adequate tank floor area — vertical space is largely irrelevant — and high stocking densities that exceed available bottom surface cause chronic stress and competition. Their large size means individual animals experience proportionally intense stress during handling for grading and health checks. Cannibalism among juveniles causes significant mortality and injury before size-grading can separate individuals. Halibut are highly sensitive to light intensity and prefer low-light conditions — bright tank environments cause chronic stress. Slaughter without stunning causes prolonged suffering in this large, vigorous species. Their slow growth means welfare problems accumulate over years. Norwegian welfare regulations for halibut are more developed than in most other producing countries, providing a model for the industry.