Atlantic halibut and turbot are premium flatfish increasingly farmed in Europe and North America. Their unusual biology creates unique welfare challenges compared to round fish species.
Flatfish aquaculture presents distinct welfare challenges because these animals evolved for life on the seabed, not in crowded tanks designed for round fish. The high rates of cataracts in farmed halibut — a condition causing gradual vision loss — represent a major welfare concern that has been partially addressed through dietary riboflavin supplementation and blue light exclusion, but not eliminated. Skeletal deformities associated with metamorphosis failures are common in hatcheries. Crowding at densities required for economic viability causes fin damage and immune compromise. The slaughter stage is particularly concerning: flatfish are often killed without stunning despite evidence they experience pain. The halibut and turbot welfare literature is less developed than for salmon, leaving significant welfare gaps in this growing sector.