Aquaculture Welfare

Farmed Cod Welfare

Atlantic cod aquaculture is an expanding sector with specific welfare challenges related to crowding, disease, and the species' particular sensitivity to handling and water quality.

Key Facts

Atlantic cod farming is developing as wild populations have been heavily depleted
Cod show aggressive feeding behaviour at high densities causing injury to subordinate fish
Amoebic gill disease and bacterial infections are significant welfare challenges
Cod are sensitive to handling stress and show prolonged cortisol responses
Welfare standards for farmed cod are less developed than those for salmon

Welfare Considerations

Cod aquaculture welfare requires species-specific approaches that account for cod's feeding aggression, disease susceptibility, and handling sensitivity. As the sector develops, welfare standards must be built on cod-specific research rather than extrapolated from salmon farming practices.

What You Can Do

Support research into farmed cod welfare requirements
Choose certified aquaculture products including cod where available
Advocate for species-specific welfare standards in emerging aquaculture sectors