Abalone are marine mollusks farmed primarily in South Africa, China, and Australia. Their welfare status is debated, but evidence suggests they may have more complex nervous systems than previously assumed.
The welfare status of farmed abalone remains scientifically uncertain. Unlike decapod crustaceans (now recognized as sentient in UK law), abalone have simpler nervous systems with less evidence for pain-like experiences. However, their behavioral responses to damaging stimuli suggest the precautionary principle is appropriate. Key welfare-relevant farming practices include maintaining appropriate water temperature ranges, avoiding overcrowding that causes disease and distress, and careful handling during grading operations. As the science of molluscan sentience advances, welfare standards for abalone farming should be revisited.