Introduction
The following topic contains sensitive imagery and information on methods for humane harvest and animal welfare in the crustacean field of aquaculture. Please be aware that the assignment includes images that some may find disturbing. However, we are having this discussion to examine the very real considerations that go with the harvesting of animals for food and the conditions in which they are raised. For many years, this type of study has been excluded for invertebrates and has focused more on vertebrate animals. For this reason and more we will examine that disparity and discuss methods for harvest and captive animal care that consider animal behavior and welfare. Prior to this discussion board, read the following publications Invertebrate welfare: An overlooked issue Download Invertebrate welfare: An overlooked issueand Humane Killing and Processing Download Humane Killing and Processing.
Since aquaculture also serves as a food system, the methods behind harvesting organisms must be explored. In an effort to consider animal welfare and humane harvesting, considerable study is done to examine animal behaviors in a captive setting and their perception of pain.
Initial Post
Due Date: 3 AM ET, Thursday
In your initial post describe one consideration for animal welfare for crustaceans and how they have often been overlooked in the area of animal research and humane harvesting. In addition, describe a possible method of humane harvest? Give your opinion on what constitutes animal welfare in an aquaculture setting. What considerations should be made? Do you agree or disagree with the context of the articles?