Walleye are a prized freshwater fish increasingly sought for aquaculture. Their welfare needs, including sensitivity to light, stress during handling, and water quality requirements, are important for responsible farming.
Walleye welfare challenges in aquaculture are significant due to their specialized biology. Their light sensitivity means bright facility lighting causes stress — facilities should use low-intensity lighting and allow dark periods. High stocking densities promote cannibalism and aggression, requiring careful density management and early grading to separate size classes. The transition to pelleted feeds is stressful; gradual feed training reduces mortalities. Water quality management is critical as walleye are sensitive to ammonia and low oxygen. As a species newer to intensive aquaculture, welfare standards and best practices are still being developed through research partnerships.