Fish welfare matters: Why science and ethics must align?

Fish welfare has gained increasing attention in both aquaculture and fisheries management due to ethical considerations and its impact on production efficiency. The well-being of fish is influenced by a range of physiological, behavioural, and environmental factors that determine their health and survival. Scientific research has identified stress indicators such as elevated cortisol levels, suppressed immune function, and behavioural abnormalities as key measures of welfare. Poor water quality, high stocking densities, and inadequate handling practices contribute significantly to stress in both farmed and wild fish populations. Ethical concerns regarding the sentience and capacity of fish to experience pain have further driven the need for humane treatment in fisheries and aquaculture. Studies indicate that improving welfare through optimal water management, reduced stocking densities, and humane slaughter methods enhances both productivity and sustainability. By integrating scientific findings with ethical principles, aquaculture and fisheries can adopt welfare-friendly practices that minimize suffering while ensuring economic viability. This paper reviews key aspects of fish welfare, emphasizing the importance of aligning ethical considerations with scientific advancements to promote sustainable and humane management. The discussion highlights welfare challenges in aquaculture and capture fisheries, presenting strategies to improve conditions based on empirical evidence. Achieving sustainable fish welfare requires collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to develop standardized welfare assessment tools and best practices. The present attempt underscores the necessity of a holistic approach, where scientific progress and ethical responsibility converge to enhance fish welfare across diverse aquatic systems.