Tilapia is one of the world's most farmed fish species, with welfare challenges in intensive systems including high stocking density and water quality management.
Despite being considered hardy, tilapia at extreme stocking densities experience chronic crowding stress, increased aggression, and physiological compromise. Welfare in tilapia aquaculture receives far less attention than salmon or trout, partly due to geographic concentration in developing countries with limited regulation. Basic welfare standards including stocking density limits and water quality monitoring are urgently needed.