Carp are among the most widely farmed fish globally, particularly in Asia, yet their welfare has historically received little attention. Growing evidence of carp sentience is driving welfare improvements in the industry.
The scale of carp farming means welfare improvements here could benefit more individual animals than almost any other aquaculture intervention. Evidence supports that carp experience pain and stress responses that matter morally. Stunning before slaughter - whether electrical or percussive - eliminates the prolonged distress of live handling and asphyxiation. Reducing stocking density and improving water oxygen levels during live transport also show measurable welfare improvements. The challenge is implementation across thousands of small-scale operations in low-income countries.