Grouper aquaculture is a major industry in Southeast Asia, with welfare concerns including high stocking densities, disease pressure, and use of wild-caught juveniles.
Grouper farming represents a significant welfare concern at multiple stages of production. The continued reliance on wild-caught fry involves high mortality during capture and transport. High stocking densities cause chronic stress and aggression. Disease pressure causes mass mortality events associated with significant suffering. The live fish trade involves transport and holding conditions that are inherently stressful. Developing welfare-positive grouper aquaculture requires closed-cycle production, reduced stocking densities, and humane handling throughout.