Document Type

Report

Publication Date

2024

Abstract

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is the second-most widely farmed fish species globally, playing a critical role in food security and livelihoods, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. With the increasing global focus on the ethical and sustainable production of animal-source foods, the assessment and improvement of fish welfare in aquaculture systems has become a priority. This report provides a structured review of operational welfare indicators (OWIs) that can be used to assess the on-farm welfare of Nile tilapia across various production systems. Drawing on a broad range of scientific literature and industry practices, the report categorises OWIs into four key domains (health, environmental, nutritional, and behavioural) based on adapted versions of the Five Domains model and established welfare assessment frameworks used in other species.

The review highlights OWIs currently available for tilapia, evaluates their validity, feasibility, and relevance to commercial operations, and identifies significant knowledge gaps, particularly in the development of indicators related to positive welfare. Several indicators, such as skin and fin condition, water quality parameters, and feed intake, are shown to be both practical and informative, yet underutilised. Challenges in standardising welfare assessments across diverse aquaculture environments are also discussed. The report concludes by emphasising the need for further research into species-specific welfare metrics and for integrating OWIs into certification and management protocols. By advancing a science-based approach to welfare assessment, this work supports efforts to promote responsible aquaculture, enhance the wellbeing of farmed aquatic animals, and aligns with broader efforts to ensure ethical treatment of aquatic animals.

Download

Share

COinS