Recent development of aquaculture rose interest for fish welfare in aquaculture farms

The recent development of aquaculture has raised interest in fish welfare. It is debatable whether fish can feel pain, although there is a certain consensus that fish can perceive harmful stimuli. However, it is still difficult to evaluate how this information is integrated as a subjective experience. When exposed to stress, fish develop the same physiological and behavioural responses as terrestrial vertebrates. Analysing this information using a multiparameter approach has enabled fish welfare to be defined. Several activities involved in fish farming put fish welfare at risk. Deterioration of water quality can be a major cause of welfare problems with regards to specific characteristics of the species. Other parameters such as fish density, handling and transport are also likely to impact on welfare. Control of these stress factors by fish farmers is essential for successful production. In addition to experience acquired by fish farmers, better knowledge of the biological basis of fish welfare is required.