Aquatic Animal Welfare

Farmed Cod Aquaculture Welfare

Atlantic cod aquaculture has faced significant welfare challenges including vertebral deformities, cataract development and handling stress that have limited commercial success.

Key Facts

Cod aquaculture expanded rapidly in Norway and Iceland in the 2000s before commercial failure
High rates of spinal deformities and cataracts were associated with intensive rearing
Photoperiod manipulation to accelerate growth caused cataracts in farmed cod
Cod are stress-sensitive species with elevated cortisol responses to handling
Limited demand and competition from wild catch also contributed to industry difficulties

Welfare Considerations

Farmed cod experienced significant welfare problems including painful deformities and visual impairment. These challenges highlight the importance of welfare assessment before scaling intensive aquaculture of new species. Research continues to address deformity causes before commercial revival.

What You Can Do

Support seafood certification schemes that assess new species welfare standards
Advocate for pre-commercialisation welfare assessment requirements in aquaculture
Choose responsibly sourced cod from certified sustainable fisheries