Aquaculture Welfare

Aquaculture: Turbot Welfare in Flatfish Systems

Turbot are a high-value flatfish species farmed in recirculating systems, with welfare requirements differing significantly from round fish species.

Key Facts

Turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) lie flat on the tank bottom, requiring significant bottom area
High stocking density in turbot tanks limits bottom area access, causing welfare stress
Turbot are aggressive towards each other and bite wounds are a significant welfare problem
Water quality requirements for turbot are exacting, with sensitivity to dissolved oxygen and ammonia
Welfare research on turbot is limited compared to salmonids despite significant production volumes

Welfare Considerations

Turbot have species-specific welfare requirements from their flatfish body plan that are not met by round-fish tank design. Adequate bottom surface area per fish is a primary welfare standard that is frequently violated in intensive systems. Aggression and bite wound management requires lower stocking densities and tank design features that reduce competitive interactions.

What You Can Do

Support welfare research specific to flatfish aquaculture species
Advocate for species-specific welfare standards for turbot farming
Choose turbot from certified sources with documented welfare monitoring
Learn about the species-specific welfare needs of flatfish aquaculture
Raise awareness that flatfish welfare differs fundamentally from round fish