Aquaculture

Farmed Atlantic Cod Welfare Challenges

Atlantic cod aquaculture is a developing industry with welfare challenges around cannibalism, disease, and the complex behaviour of this large predatory fish.

Key Facts

Cod aquaculture is much smaller than salmon farming but growing in Norway and Scotland
Juvenile cod are highly cannibalistic requiring careful size grading to prevent predation
Cod are visual predators that respond strongly to light conditions affecting behaviour and welfare
Vibriosis and other bacterial diseases cause significant welfare and production losses
Cod exhibit complex foraging behaviour that is poorly expressed in intensive cage systems

Welfare Considerations

Cod welfare in aquaculture is challenged by their predatory nature, cannibalistic tendencies, and complex behavioural needs. Early size grading to prevent cannibalism is essential, but also stressful. Developing welfare standards specific to cod requires significant research investment.

What You Can Do

Support research into cod-specific welfare standards for aquaculture
Advocate for inclusion of cod in aquaculture welfare certification frameworks
Choose certified sustainable cod where welfare information is available
Learn about cod biology and its implications for aquaculture welfare