Aquaculture Welfare

Farmed Pangasius Catfish Welfare

Pangasius (tra catfish) farming in the Mekong Delta produces millions of tonnes annually with significant welfare implications in intensive systems.

Key Facts

Vietnam produces over 1 million tonnes of pangasius annually for global export
Stocking densities can exceed 100 kg per cubic meter in intensive cage systems
Pangasius are obligate air breathers tolerant of poor water quality but still welfare-compromised at extremes
International certification is improving standards for some pangasius producers
Worker welfare in processing facilities is also a concern alongside fish welfare

Welfare Considerations

Pangasius catfish in intensive systems experience chronic crowding stress, water quality challenges, and handling stress at harvest. As one of the most widely consumed farmed fish globally, welfare improvements would benefit enormous numbers of animals.

What You Can Do

Choose pangasius certified under welfare-conscious aquaculture standards
Ask retailers about the specific farms supplying their pangasius products
Support research into welfare-optimized pangasius production systems