The aquaculture industry is facing an urgent need to address animal welfare concerns due to high morbidity and mortality rates across various production systems worldwide. These issues impact different aquatic species raised and
slaughtered for human consumption in intensive settings. Consequently, a comprehensive definition of animal welfare is essential for planning and executing effective, relevant, and impactful interventions in the aquaculture industry.
A crucial aspect of animal welfare is improving psychological experiences. Through this presentation, we aim to summarize the current evidence supporting environmental enrichment as an effective intervention to enhance aquatic animal welfare outcomes in 15 species, including Atlantic salmon, Nile tilapia, grass carp, rainbow trout, and others. We also highlight the need for increased investment in research, both in academia and farm settings, to further develop environmental enrichment interventions and strategies.
The primary goal of environmental enrichment is to enhance animal well-being by providing sensory and motor stimulation through structures and resources that facilitate the expression of species-typical behaviors. This approach promotes psychological health through physical exercise, manipulative activities, and cognitive challenges tailored to each species. We present examples demonstrating how suitable enrichments allow for animals to live in good health, with properly functioning biological systems, and engage in a variety of behaviors typical of their natural habitat.
We share results from various studies on how environmental enrichment interventions, such as enclosure coloration, substrate provision, lighting enhancements, water complexity, structures, shelter, and feeding systems, can be low-cost and effective options for producers to implement on their farms. These interventions also offer flexibility and creativity in utilizing available resources based on geographic location and cultural context, ultimately improving animal health and welfare.