Barramundi is a premium aquaculture species farmed extensively in Australia and Southeast Asia, with welfare considerations including water temperature management, stocking density, and cannibalism.
Barramundi welfare in aquaculture is affected by multiple management factors. As a naturally territorial predatory fish, barramundi in high-density systems experience chronic stress from competition and aggression. Size grading to reduce cannibalism is essential but involves repeated handling stress. Water temperature management is critical, as temperatures outside the optimal range impair immune function and increase disease susceptibility. Barramundi welfare science is less developed than for salmonids, creating gaps in evidence-based management standards.