Farmed Halibut Welfare: Atlantic and Pacific Species

Halibut aquaculture is a growing sector with distinct welfare challenges related to the species' biology and farming methods.

Key Facts

Atlantic halibut aquaculture is primarily located in Norway, Scotland, and Iceland
Halibut are flatfish that naturally live on the seabed — standard tank design must accommodate this
They are sensitive to light intensity and require careful lighting management in captive environments
Halibut cannibalism during the juvenile stage is a serious welfare and production challenge
Slow growth rate — taking 3-5 years to reach market size — means extended welfare exposure
Stress during handling elevates cortisol significantly and can cause lasting welfare impacts

Welfare Considerations

Halibut aquaculture presents unique challenges compared to round fish species. Their bottom-dwelling biology requires tank designs with appropriate substrate or grading systems to prevent competition and injury. Juvenile halibut are prone to cannibalism when density is too high or feeding is inconsistent, causing serious welfare harm. Stress from routine handling has pronounced physiological effects due to their sensitivity. Welfare-focused halibut farming requires careful density management, appropriate lighting control, consistent feeding protocols, and gentle handling procedures. As the sector grows, welfare standards need to keep pace with production ambitions.

What You Can Do

Ask retailers about welfare standards in their halibut supply chains
Support development of species-specific welfare indicators for flatfish aquaculture
Advocate for halibut to be included in welfare certification schemes as the sector grows
Choose halibut from certified sources when available
Reduce consumption of species from aquaculture systems without welfare oversight