Turbot farming is a significant European aquaculture sector with welfare challenges related to stocking density, handling, and the species' specific biological requirements.
Turbot welfare in aquaculture faces challenges specific to their flatfish biology - they require bottom contact that densely stocked tanks may not allow for all individuals simultaneously. The combination of high density, frequent handling for health checks and grading, and potential temperature stress creates cumulative welfare burden. Evidence-based improvements - density limits that allow all fish bottom access, minimizing handling frequency, maintaining optimal water temperature - can substantially improve welfare in turbot systems. Consumer and retailer pressure for certified welfare standards in European aquaculture creates market incentives for these improvements.