Aquaculture

European Seabass and Gilthead Seabream: Mediterranean Aquaculture Welfare

Seabass and seabream are the most important farmed fish in the Mediterranean with significant welfare challenges in intensive cage systems.

Key Facts

Over 250,000 tonnes of seabass and seabream are produced annually in Mediterranean aquaculture
Stocking densities of 25 to 30 kilograms per cubic metre are common in cage systems
Sea cage production exposes fish to weather extremes and parasite transmission
Gilthead seabream are prone to cataract development associated with diet deficiencies
Both species show evidence of chronic stress in high density cage conditions

Welfare Considerations

Mediterranean cage systems for seabass and seabream create welfare challenges from high stocking density that prevents normal space use and social behaviour. Chronic stress from crowding suppresses immune function and increases vulnerability to disease. Cataract development in seabream causes vision impairment affecting feeding behaviour. Sea lice and other parasites cause skin damage. Slaughter methods including live chilling are slow and cause suffering.

What You Can Do

Choose seabass and seabream with welfare certification from responsible aquaculture schemes
Support research into lower density systems and improved slaughter methods for Mediterranean species
Advocate for EU and UK aquaculture welfare regulations to include seabass and seabream
Reduce consumption or choose alternative species with better welfare records
Engage with importers and retailers to improve welfare standards in their Mediterranean supply chains