European seabass exhibit significant aggression at high stocking densities, creating welfare challenges in Mediterranean aquaculture operations.
Seabass suffer measurable harm from overcrowding: chronic stress suppresses immune function, increases disease susceptibility, and causes persistent pain from fin and scale injuries. Subordinate fish are often excluded from feeding, leading to growth stunting and malnutrition alongside dominant conspecifics. Welfare improvements are achievable through density reduction, structured tank environments that break line-of-sight, and feeding systems that distribute food across larger areas to reduce competition.