Farmed Eel Welfare - European Production

Welfare challenges in European eel (Anguilla anguilla) aquaculture and wild capture, including elver sourcing and electrofishing.

Key Facts

European eel is critically endangered in the wild while farmed production relies on wild-caught elvers
Capture of elvers using nets and electrofishing causes significant stress and mortality
Eels are vulnerable to density-related aggression and require structured environments for welfare
Current European eel farming relies entirely on wild-sourced juveniles as captive breeding has not been achieved
The ethical tension between farming a critically endangered species and wild population conservation is unresolved

Welfare Considerations

This topic has significant welfare implications for the animals involved. Evidence-based management approaches and appropriate veterinary care can substantially improve outcomes.

What You Can Do

Consult your veterinarian for guidance specific to your situation
Follow evidence-based management protocols
Monitor animals closely and intervene promptly when welfare concerns arise
Stay updated with current research and best practices
Share knowledge with others to improve welfare across the sector