European sea bass is one of the most commercially important Mediterranean aquaculture species. Improving welfare throughout the production cycle benefits fish and aligns with growing consumer and regulatory expectations.
Sea bass welfare across the production cycle involves multiple critical points. During grow-out, high stocking densities in cages restrict swimming space and increase aggressive interactions. Sea lice infestations cause skin damage and chronic irritation. Veterinary treatment with chemical baths causes additional handling stress. At slaughter, many sea bass are killed by CO2 narcosis or chilling in ice slurry — methods that cause prolonged consciousness and distress. Electrical stunning provides more humane slaughter and is increasingly adopted by leading producers. The EFSA opinion on sea bass and sea bream welfare provides a scientific framework for improvement. Consumer and retailer pressure, including welfare certification schemes, are important drivers of better practice in this sector.