Aquaculture Welfare

Farmed Shrimp Water Quality Standards

Water quality is the foundation of shrimp welfare in aquaculture. Poor parameters cause chronic stress, disease, and mortality.

Key Facts

Dissolved oxygen below 3 mg/L causes acute stress in shrimp
Ammonia accumulates rapidly in high-density ponds
Water exchange and aeration are critical management tools
pH and salinity fluctuations affect molting success
RAS systems allow precise control of water parameters

Welfare Considerations

Shrimp experience physiological stress responses to poor water quality. While their capacity for suffering remains debated, the precautionary principle supports maintaining optimal water conditions to minimize stress and promote normal behavior and growth.

What You Can Do

Choose shrimp certified to welfare and environmental standards
Support research into shrimp sentience and welfare
Advocate for water quality standards in aquaculture regulations
Reduce shrimp consumption or choose responsibly sourced options