Assessing fish welfare in aquaculture

Lars Helge Stein*, M.B.M. Bracke, Chris Noble, T.S. Kristiansen

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

A framework for assessing the welfare of fish in aquaculture must have a suite of different welfare indicators that describe how well their welfare needs are met and thus their quality of life. The framework should utilise both input- and outcome-based welfare indicators. Input-based welfare indicators are parameters that describe the conditions the fish are subjected to, e.g. their environment. In many cases, input-based welfare indicators can give the farmer or assessor an early warning of deteriorating conditions, which can then be mitigated before they become too severe. However, it can be very challenging to have a complete overview of all the possible input parameters the fish are subjected to, at all times, and at all possible positions in the rearing facility that the fish may occupy. Further, their effects on welfare can also be subtle, delayed and also be dependent upon an array of complex interactions with other parameters and factors. It is, therefore, necessary to also include outcome-based indicators. These are parameters that are normally directly related to the animals, e.g. describing the animals themselves or their behaviour. A simple rule of thumb can be that as long as the fish look good, are doing well, are in good health, show normal behaviour and are thriving, it is not unreasonable to assume that the rearing system or operation is fulfilling, or has not markedly impacted upon, their welfare needs. If not, there is something wrong and this should be investigated further.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe welfare of Fish
EditorsT.S. Kristiansen, A. Fernö, M.A. Pavlidis, H. van de Vis
PublisherSpringer
Chapter13
Pages303-321
ISBN (Electronic)9783030416751
ISBN (Print)9783030416744
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Jul 2020

Publication series

NameThe Welfare of Fish
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Number1
Volume20
ISSN (Electronic)1572-7408

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