Atlantic halibut farming is a growing sector with significant welfare challenges linked to the species' unique biology and sensitivity to crowding, light, and handling.
Atlantic halibut present distinct welfare challenges at each production stage. Larval welfare depends on precise environmental management for successful metamorphosis. Juvenile welfare is compromised by cannibalism in crowded systems, requiring size sorting and density management. Adult halibut in sea cages face crowding stress and temperature sensitivity that require careful monitoring. As a relatively new farmed species, welfare standards for halibut are less developed than for salmon. Investment in halibut-specific welfare research and certification standards is needed to ensure welfare improves alongside the growth of this sector.