Atlantic halibut farming in Norway and Canada is developing welfare standards for this slow-growing premium species as production volumes increase.
Halibut welfare in Norwegian aquaculture benefits from the regulatory framework that covers farmed fish welfare, though species-specific standards are still being developed. Their flat-bodied morphology means tank surface area relative to depth determines behavioral space more than volume alone. Extended production cycles mean welfare management must be sustained consistently over years. As a high-value premium seafood product, halibut aquaculture can economically support welfare investments that generate measurable improvements in fish health and welfare outcomes throughout the production cycle.