Finding the “golden stocking density”: A balance between fish welfare and farmers' perspectives

The effects of stocking density on fish welfare are complex and involve many interacting parameters. This relationship between welfare, influencing factors make it challenging to define a specific optimal (“golden”) density. Indeed, previously published recommendations for different species aquaculture interest incredibly variable even at the same life stage, can also vary widely within rearing unit. Production be estimated quite accurately if farmer has good biomass control known water volume, but is difficult set minimum maximum levels that will protect welfare. However, there little doubt densities too low or high have negative impacts and/or production. Here, we propose how select captive monitor its potential integrating 1) solid assessment based operational indicators 2) management practices. Regulation directly limiting likely unworkable ineffective, more rational option might prescribe acceptable (e.g., quality, health, nutritional condition behavioral indicators), which together with positive economic balance company, allow estimate most suitable range each particular species, life-stage production systems.