Farm Animals

Farmed Eel Welfare Challenges

European eel farming relies on wild-caught glass eels, with the species itself critically endangered and farming welfare compromised by the species' specific biological requirements.

Key Facts

European eels are critically endangered - their farming exacerbates pressure on wild populations
Glass eels (juveniles) are collected from rivers for stocking aquaculture systems
Eels are air-tolerant and have been kept alive in conditions other fish could not survive
European glass eel collection is regulated but illegal trade remains a problem
Closed-cycle eel aquaculture has not yet been achieved at commercial scale

Welfare Considerations

Eel farming presents a dual welfare and conservation challenge. The species is critically endangered, and farming depends on wild capture that threatens recovery. Even in captivity, eel welfare is compromised by handling and conditions that exploit their air-breathing tolerance. Reducing demand for farmed eel is the most impactful welfare and conservation action.

What You Can Do

Reduce or avoid consuming farmed European eel given its endangered status
Support campaigns for better enforcement of glass eel collection limits
Advocate for investment in closed-cycle eel aquaculture research
Choose sustainable seafood alternatives to European eel
Engage with conservation organisations working on European eel recovery