Stone loach and other small freshwater fish face overlooked welfare challenges from water quality degradation, physical barriers and collecting pressure.
Small freshwater fish like stone loach are often overlooked in welfare discussions, yet they show stress responses to handling, poor water quality and habitat disturbance. The evidence for fish sentience and pain perception has grown substantially, suggesting these animals can suffer. Water quality improvements that benefit large fish species also benefit small fish like loach. Collecting wild fish for ponds is a welfare concern and may be illegal for protected species. Supporting clean water campaigns protects fish welfare at scale.