Atlantic halibut aquaculture is developing as a premium seafood product. Understanding the specific welfare challenges of farming these large flatfish guides better production practices.
Halibut welfare in aquaculture reflects the challenges of farming a species whose natural ecology — solitary, bottom-dwelling, ambush predation — is poorly matched to the schooling conditions of intensive aquaculture. Their tendency toward cannibalism requires careful size grading that itself causes handling stress; their bottom-dwelling preference means that conventional circular tank systems may not optimally meet their behavioral needs; their sensitivity to temperature requires careful environmental management in warming ocean conditions. The welfare of halibut during the prolonged aquaculture cycle — 3-4 years compared to 1-2 years for salmon — means that chronic welfare compromises have extended duration. Welfare-centered halibut aquaculture would prioritize appropriate tank design accommodating bottom-dwelling behavior, careful size management to prevent cannibalism, and pre-slaughter stunning.