Atlantic cod aquaculture is re-emerging as wild stocks recover. Welfare science for this historically important species is developing alongside commercial interest.
Atlantic cod welfare in aquaculture requires attention to their social and environmental needs that differ from salmonid species. Their schooling tendency means some social housing is natural, but overcrowding triggers the aggressive interactions and cannibalism that cause injury and welfare compromise. Optimal water quality management is critical — cod are sensitive to oxygen levels, temperature fluctuations, and water quality deterioration. Behavioral indicators including abnormal swimming patterns and reduced feeding response indicate welfare problems requiring investigation. Pre-slaughter welfare protocols including percussive stunning are best practice but variable in their application across the small number of commercial operations. The rebuilding of cod aquaculture as an industry presents an opportunity to embed welfare standards from the outset rather than retrofitting them to established practices.