Sturgeon are farmed for caviar and meat in growing aquaculture operations worldwide. As ancient fish with unique biology, their welfare requirements in captivity deserve careful attention.
Farmed sturgeon present unique welfare challenges due to their long lifespans, specialized environmental needs, and the extended confinement inherent in caviar production. Sturgeon are behaviorally active bottom feeders that probe substrates with sensitive barbels; barren tank environments deny this natural behavior. Water quality is critical, as sturgeon are sensitive to oxygen depletion, temperature fluctuations, and pollution. Traditional slaughter for roe extraction is stressful; non-lethal extraction methods that aspirate eggs without killing the fish are more humane and economically sustainable as they preserve the reproductive female. Certification schemes that require high water quality, appropriate stocking density, and humane slaughter can drive welfare improvements across the sector.