Stocking density is one of the most important determinants of farmed salmon welfare. Research has identified welfare indicators that correlate with crowding stress and guide management decisions.
Stocking density in salmon farming directly affects welfare through multiple pathways including aggression, reduced access to feed, and stress-induced immune suppression. Research has validated a suite of welfare indicators that can be measured at slaughter or through in-pen cameras to assess conditions without disturbing fish. Producers who operate at lower voluntary densities demonstrate that welfare improvement is economically compatible with commercial salmon production.