Yellowtail (Seriola spp.) are prized aquaculture species in Japan and Australia, with welfare challenges including crowding, disease, and high-stress handling.
Yellowtail aquaculture presents significant welfare concerns. These are active, wide-ranging pelagic fish confined to net pens at densities that restrict natural swimming behavior. Crowding stress is chronic in many operations. Pre-slaughter crowding amplifies acute stress responses. The continued use of wild-caught juveniles in some operations means that wild fish welfare is also affected. Ike jime — immediate brain spiking — is considered the most humane slaughter method and also improves flesh quality, creating alignment between welfare and market incentives. Greater adoption of this method and better cage conditions would significantly improve yellowtail welfare.