Elasmobranchs including sharks and rays are challenging species to keep in aquariums, with specific welfare needs around space, water quality, and feeding that require substantial investment.
Shark and ray welfare in aquarium settings requires specific expertise and infrastructure that many facilities lack. The space requirements of larger shark species are enormous, and even large public aquariums may struggle to provide adequate swimming distances. Electrical interference from pumps and filtration equipment can overstimulate the electroreceptive ampullae of Lorenzini, causing chronic irritation. Feeding management is particularly important for social elasmobranch species, as dominant individuals may monopolise food if individual feeding is not managed. These welfare challenges must be carefully assessed before acquiring large elasmobranch species.