Advanced aquaculture systems designed around halibut flatfish biology can substantially improve welfare outcomes compared to standard round tank designs.
Advanced aquaculture system design for halibut represents the application of species-specific behavioral science to welfare improvement. Standard aquaculture infrastructure designed for round-bodied species like salmon or trout performs poorly for flatfish that have fundamentally different spatial, lighting, and substrate needs. Modified systems including raceways with appropriate floor space, substrate provision, and low-light management have demonstrated measurable welfare improvements through reduced malpigmentation, lower cortisol, and better feed behavior. These represent practical, economically viable welfare improvements that require investment in species-specific research and willingness to adapt infrastructure beyond generic aquaculture templates.