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Fishes
Special Issues
Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings
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Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings

A special issue of Fishes (ISSN 2410-3888). This special issue belongs to the section "Welfare, Health and Disease".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 June 2026 | Viewed by 8405

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Luis André Luz Barbas

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Tropical Species Aquaculture Laboratory, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Pará, BR 316, Km 63 S/N, Castanhal 68740-970, PA, Brazil
Interests: fish anaesthetics; essential oils; antioxidant activity; fish physiology; oxidative stress; haematological analysis; bioactivity of plant extractives; fish behaviour; fish transport; aquaculture water quality
Dr. Marcelo Ferreira Torres

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Tropical Species Aquaculture Laboratory, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Pará, BR 316, Km 63 S/N, Castanhal 68740-970, PA, Brazil
Interests: ichthyology; fish anaesthesia; fish stress; ornamental fish farming
Dr. Martina Bortoletti

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Italy
Interests: fish physiology and welfare; fish morphology and anatomy; fish stress response; aquaculture

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue of Fishes aims to explore the critical aspects of fish health and welfare in both aquaculture and research environments, highlighting advances in stress physiology, behavioural indicators, ethical considerations, and welfare assessment tools and the impacts of environmental, nutritional, and husbandry practices on fish well-being. This Special Issue focuses on developing innovative methodologies and practical solutions that promote sustainable aquaculture and ethical research practices while prioritising fish welfare. Within the existing literature, fish welfare has gained recognition as a multidisciplinary concern that bridges physiology, behaviour, and aquaculture production. While past research has provided valuable insights into the assessment and management of fish welfare, gaps remain in the standardisation of welfare indicators and the practical implementation of welfare-friendly methodologies. This Special Issue seeks to bridge theoretical knowledge with industry applications while incorporating emerging trends such as precision aquaculture, advanced monitoring technologies, and holistic welfare frameworks. We invite contributions from researchers in aquatic animal health, aquaculture, veterinary sciences, and related fields in order to foster discussions that enhance scientific knowledge, industry standards, and regulatory policies.

Prof. Dr. Luis André Luz Barbas
Dr. Marcelo Ferreira Torres
Dr. Martina Bortoletti
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Fishes is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • advanced monitoring technologies
  • aquaculture sustainability
  • behavioural indicators
  • environmental and nutritional impact
  • ethical aquaculture
  • fish welfare
  • husbandry practices
  • precision aquaculture
  • stress physiology
  • welfare assessments

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

21 pages, 9544 KB  
Article
Effects of Different LED Lights on the Growth Performance and Serum Lysozyme Activity of Common Carp Cyprinus carpio and Bacterial Communities in a Closed Recirculating System
by Phan Trong Binh, Satoshi Hori, Nguyen Thi Dang, Katsuhisa Uchida and Yousuke Taoka
Fishes 2026, 11(4), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11040234 - 15 Apr 2026
Viewed by 176
Abstract
We evaluated the effect of our light-emitting diode (LED) light treatments (blue, peak at 468 nm; green, peak at 537 nm; red, peak at 630 nm; and white light) on the growth performance and serum lysozyme activity of the common carp Cyprinus carpio [...] Read more.
We evaluated the effect of our light-emitting diode (LED) light treatments (blue, peak at 468 nm; green, peak at 537 nm; red, peak at 630 nm; and white light) on the growth performance and serum lysozyme activity of the common carp Cyprinus carpio and bacterial communities in a closed recirculating system under an average power intensity of 1.29 ± 0.18 mW/cm2 of LED light on the water surface of a circulating rearing system for 70 days. The specific growth rate, weight gain and K-factor were improved when carp were cultured under green or blue light. The specific lysozyme activity in the plasma of the common carp was significantly promoted under blue light compared to the green, white and red light conditions after 70 days. Compared to the other types of LED lights, the blue light treatment resulted in the lowest number of heterotrophic bacteria in the rearing water and the highest heterotrophic bacteria in the carp’s gut contents (both p < 0.05). The phyla Fusobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Tenericutes, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were abundant in the carp’s gut contents after culturing with any of the four types of LED light. In short, the blue LED light can be considered a potential tool in sustainable aquaculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings)
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16 pages, 1784 KB  
Article
Analysis of Respiratory Behaviour of Thicklipped Grey Mullet (Chelon labrosus) Juveniles Under Different Rearing Conditions
by Daniel Salazar, María de los Ángeles Egea, Jorge León, Javier Parra and Felipe Aguado-Giménez
Fishes 2026, 11(3), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11030128 - 24 Feb 2026
Viewed by 418
Abstract
Thicklipped grey mullet (Chelon labrosus) shows potential as an appealing species for aquaculture in the EU. Knowledge of its metabolic requirements is essential for species management and control of environmental conditions. We examined routine and postprandial oxygen consumption (OC) [...] Read more.
Thicklipped grey mullet (Chelon labrosus) shows potential as an appealing species for aquaculture in the EU. Knowledge of its metabolic requirements is essential for species management and control of environmental conditions. We examined routine and postprandial oxygen consumption (OC) in juveniles as a function of body weight (Bw: 2–85 mg) and temperature (T: 14–26 °C), as well as OC and ventilatory frequency (VF) under gradual hypoxia as a function of T (14–22 °C). Multiple regression analyses determined the effects of Bw and T on mean daily (OCmean), postprandial (OCSDA), routine (OCroutine), and maximum (OCmax) levels, as well as on OCmax/OCroutine ratio (MSF), postprandial OC duration (DSDA) and time to reach maximum activity (Dpeak). The effects of dissolved oxygen (DO) and T on OC and of T on initial VF (VFini), maximum VF (VFmax), critical DO threshold (%DOcrit), and VF change threshold (%VFch) were also analysed. All OC levels increased with T and Bw, except MSF, DSDA, and Dpeak, uninfluenced by Bw. Under gradual hypoxia, OC decreased with falling DO, more sharply at higher T, consistent with oxyconformer behaviour. VF remained stable until 50% DO, then rose progressively, reaching higher VFmax at higher T. Simulations using derived equations estimate C. labrosus respiratory response and water flow requirements under aquaculture conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings)
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18 pages, 5114 KB  
Article
Therapeutic Window of Morphine on Cardiac and Respiratory Parameters of Juvenile Tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum
by Brenda Maria Pereira Alho da Costa, Joelson da Silva Farias, Rodrigo Gonçalves dos Santos, Clarissa Araújo da Paz, Luana Vasconcelos de Souza, Luciana Eiró Quirino, Murilo Farias dos Santos, Marcelo Victor dos Santos Brito, Marcelo Ferreira Torres, Moisés Hamoy and Luis André Luz Barbas
Fishes 2026, 11(2), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11020109 - 10 Feb 2026
Viewed by 737
Abstract
Morphine is widely used as an analgesic in vertebrates, yet its cardiorespiratory safety and effective therapeutic range remain poorly explored in fish. This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of morphine on cardiac and respiratory parameters of juvenile tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum). Juveniles [...] Read more.
Morphine is widely used as an analgesic in vertebrates, yet its cardiorespiratory safety and effective therapeutic range remain poorly explored in fish. This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of morphine on cardiac and respiratory parameters of juvenile tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum). Juveniles (25.95 ± 4.08 g) were randomly assigned to control, sham (0.9% saline) or morphine groups (24, 28, 32, 36 and 40 mg kg−1, i.p.). Electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings were used to assess heart rate (HR), PQ, RR and QT intervals, and QRS amplitude, while opercular beat rate (OBR) and opercular beat intensity (OBI) were measured to evaluate respiratory responses. Morphine induced a significant dose-dependent bradycardia and QT prolongation, without affecting QRS amplitude or conduction integrity. Respiratory frequency and intensity also decreased with increasing doses, with responses plateauing above 32 mg kg−1. The EC50 for HR reduction was 27.18 mg kg−1, aligning with a safe therapeutic range of 24–32 mg kg−1. By establishing this dose–response dynamic, the study provides the first characterization of a physiologically safe therapeutic window of morphine in tambaqui and highlights its safety profile for cardiorespiratory parameters. Moreover, the present results demonstrate that the opioid system of juvenile tambaqui is functionally developed, providing a physiological basis for future studies on nociception and analgesic efficacy, with relevance to welfare-oriented practices in aquaculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings)
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18 pages, 1437 KB  
Article
Three Non-Invasive Tests Reveal Anxiety-like Responses During Food Anticipation in Rainbow Trout
by André Barany, Miguel Gómez-Boronat, Lisbeth Herrera-Castillo, María J. Delgado, Nuria de Pedro, Ana M. Larrán and Esther Isorna
Fishes 2025, 10(11), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10110564 - 5 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 917
Abstract
Anxiety-like behavior in fish is commonly assessed using non-invasive behavioral paradigms such as the Light/Dark preference, Novel Tank, and Open Field tests. In this study, we validated these three assays in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), a species of commercial relevance, to [...] Read more.
Anxiety-like behavior in fish is commonly assessed using non-invasive behavioral paradigms such as the Light/Dark preference, Novel Tank, and Open Field tests. In this study, we validated these three assays in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), a species of commercial relevance, to characterize their anxiety-related responses. To explore behavioral changes associated with feeding anticipation and satiety, we implemented a feeding schedule consisting of two daily meals and conducted behavioral tests at specific times before and after feeding. Trout exhibited clear patterns of scototaxis, geotaxis, and thigmotaxis, consistent with anxiety-like behavior described in other teleosts. Our results showed a significant increase in anxiety-like responses before feeding, coinciding with food anticipatory activity observed prior to expected feeding schedules, which diminished after food intake, as evidenced by each test individually. Moreover, multivariate analysis combining parameters from all three tests improved discrimination between anxious and relaxed fish. The behavioral states before and after feeding resembled anxiety-like and anxiolytic conditions reported in other species, supporting that food anticipatory activity reflects an anxious state in rainbow trout as well. These findings endorse using a multi-test behavioral battery to assess anxiety-like states and provide a framework for studying neurobiological mechanisms of emotional regulation related to feeding in teleosts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings)
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17 pages, 1438 KB  
Article
Impact of Stocking Density on Growth, Feeding Behavior, and Flesh Quality of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) in Coupled Aquaponic Systems
by Marco Birolo, Veronica Trabacchin, Paolo Sambo, Stefano Triolone and Carlo Nicoletto
Fishes 2025, 10(11), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10110552 - 2 Nov 2025
Viewed by 2108
Abstract
Stocking density is a key driver of performance in aquaponics, affecting both fish welfare and crop yield. This study evaluated the impact of three initial stocking densities (3.1, 4.1, and 6.2 kg/m3) on survival, growth, feeding behavior, carcass and filet quality [...] Read more.
Stocking density is a key driver of performance in aquaponics, affecting both fish welfare and crop yield. This study evaluated the impact of three initial stocking densities (3.1, 4.1, and 6.2 kg/m3) on survival, growth, feeding behavior, carcass and filet quality of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), as well as on the yield of lettuce (Lactuca sativa), sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), and Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla) cultivated in vertical coupled aquaponic units. A total of 184 fish (109 ± 28 g) were reared for 176 days in nine independent recirculating systems. Fish reared at the lowest density achieved the highest final live weight and specific growth rate, with a better feed conversion ratio, whereas performance declined at higher densities despite similar survival rates. Feeding behavior was generally consistent across groups, although feed intake rate was reduced at the highest density. Carcass and filet quality traits were unaffected by stocking density. Vegetable yield was enhanced by higher fish biomass, with significant increases in lettuce production and a positive trend for basil. These findings indicate that intermediate stocking densities may represent the most sustainable compromise, ensuring fish welfare and acceptable growth while supporting efficient plant production in largemouth bass–based aquaponics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings)
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16 pages, 589 KB  
Article
Use of Essential Oil from Aloysia citrodora Paláu in Anesthesia and Simulated Transport of Tambaqui Colossoma macropomum (Cuvier 1826) at Two Different Cargo Densities
by Orlando Pinto de Almeida Castro Neto, Patrick Jordan Correia-Silva, Isabelle Santos Silva, Aline dos Anjos Santos, Aline da Silva Rocha, Ricardo David Couto, Erick dos Santos Silva, Denise Schmidt and Carlos Eduardo Copatti
Fishes 2025, 10(9), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10090448 - 3 Sep 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 950
Abstract
This study evaluated the effectiveness of essential oil from Aloysia citrodora (EOAC) (48% citral and 19% limonene) for use in anesthesia and simulated transport of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) juveniles at two cargo densities (CDs). Concentrations of 0 (control), 10, 25, 50, [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the effectiveness of essential oil from Aloysia citrodora (EOAC) (48% citral and 19% limonene) for use in anesthesia and simulated transport of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) juveniles at two cargo densities (CDs). Concentrations of 0 (control), 10, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 µL EOAC L−1 were tested for use in anesthesia induction and recovery, while 0 (control) and 20 µL EOAC L−1 were tested for their effects on the ventilatory rate (VR) and during 6 h simulated transport at a low CD (LCD, 65 g L−1) and standard CD (SCD, 130 g L−1). Fish were anesthetized at EOAC concentrations above 50 µL L−1, with the optimal anesthesia (141.83 s) and recovery times (160.00 s) at 250 µL L−1. The water unionized ammonia was lowest in the EOAC-LCD group. Using 20 µL EOAC L−1 during transport minimized changes in the hematological parameters (erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit, total leukocytes, and heterophils) and reduced the liver aspartate aminotransferase activity at both CDs. Transport at an SCD, regardless of EOAC use, increased the plasma glucose, hepatic glycogen, and alanine transaminase activity. The VR was higher with 20 µL EOAC L−1 than in the control group. In conclusion, our findings confirm that 20 µL EOAC L−1 can effectively be used to transport tambaqui for up to 6 h without impairing fish health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings)
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Review

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30 pages, 1926 KB  
Review
Noise Sources and Music Stimuli in Teleost Fish Aquaculture Systems—A Review
by Bianka Tóth, Péter Bársony and Szilvia Kusza
Fishes 2025, 10(11), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10110565 - 5 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1398
Abstract
A less-explored stressor in intensive recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs) is noise exposure. The noise profile of RASs, including the level and type of noise sources, can influence fish production. In such systems, creating an environment that enhances fish performance via improved welfare is [...] Read more.
A less-explored stressor in intensive recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs) is noise exposure. The noise profile of RASs, including the level and type of noise sources, can influence fish production. In such systems, creating an environment that enhances fish performance via improved welfare is recommended. One possible environmental enrichment method is the use of music. This study aimed to review the effects of acoustic noise as an environmental stressor and music as a potential performance-enhancing tool in teleost fish. As complete elimination of sound sources is not feasible, technological solutions may help improve acoustic environments by considering the perceptual abilities of fish and potential positive responses to music. It is advisable to design systems in which acoustic stimuli have beneficial effects on fish welfare and productivity. Given the limited existing research, further studies are needed to better understand the impact of noise and music in RASs. Insights from such research could lead to welfare improvements and increased economic yields in intensive aquaculture, a critical element of future global food security. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Health and Welfare in Aquaculture and Research Settings)
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