Farmed Pangasius Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Pangasius catfish is a major farmed fish species in Southeast Asia. Welfare standards in the sector vary enormously and warrant greater consumer attention.

Key Facts

Vietnam is the world's largest pangasius producer, exporting over 1 million tonnes annually
Pangasius farming at high density in river pens and earthen ponds is common
The species is tolerant of poor water quality due to labyrinth organ air breathing capacity
This physiological tolerance has enabled extremely high stocking densities in some systems
Welfare certification schemes for pangasius are limited compared to salmon and shrimp sectors

Welfare Considerations

Pangasius farmed at extreme densities experience crowding stress, elevated cortisol, and suppressed immune function despite physiological tolerances that allow survival. The use of high stocking densities because the fish can tolerate them does not mean good welfare is maintained. Handling, transport, and slaughter practices vary widely across the sector. Consumer demand for welfare-certified pangasius could drive faster adoption of better standards if certification schemes expand in the sector.

What You Can Do

Choose pangasius certified by sustainability and welfare schemes where available
Ask retailers about welfare standards in their pangasius supply chains
Reduce consumption of uncertified pangasius from unknown sources
Support expansion of welfare certification programmes to cover pangasius farming
Stay informed about welfare standard developments in Southeast Asian aquaculture