Pikeperch is a growing European aquaculture species whose welfare considerations are being integrated into production standards as the industry develops.
Pikeperch welfare in European aquaculture benefits from the relatively controlled environment of recirculating aquaculture systems that allow better management of water quality, temperature, and stocking density than outdoor pond systems. Cannibalism management through careful size grading reduces welfare harms in juvenile stages. As a premium product, pikeperch can support investment in welfare-positive practices including stunning before slaughter. Growing welfare certification scheme coverage for freshwater species is extending to pikeperch as the sector develops.