Tilapia is among the most farmed fish species worldwide, but rapid expansion has often outpaced welfare standards, particularly in tropical producing countries.
Tilapia farming illustrates the gap between species popularity and welfare attention. Because tilapia tolerate crowding and poor water quality, producers often exploit this tolerance rather than invest in optimal conditions. Research shows tilapia still experience stress, pain, and behavioral compromise under intensive conditions. Welfare-conscious tilapia farming is possible and associated with better growth and lower mortality.