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FAI's new course, Tilapia Behaviour and Welfare Indicators: from foraging to humane slaughter, is the latest addition to the organisation's series of free online training materials, focussing on animal welfare within aquaculture operations.
Available through FAI’s learning portal, FAI Academy, and accessible globally, the new course seeks to empower aquaculture professionals to improve tilapia welfare, boost farm productivity, and promote sustainable practices.
"The course is specifically tailored for fish farmers, veterinarians, and seafood supply chain professionals, providing practical insights into critical welfare areas. Participants will gain hands-on skills to assess tilapia behaviour, recognise welfare indicators, and humane slaughter methods, all grounded in the latest scientific research and best practices," explains Dr Sara Barrento, FAI’s e-learning and aquaculture programme manager, in a press release.
"Importantly, the course also addresses the widespread misunderstandings about what humane slaughter truly means, offering practical examples to help distinguish humane methods from inhumane ones. By advancing these practices, we’re not just improving fish well-being, we’re driving a more ethical and informed approach to food production," she added.
Topics covered in the new course include measuring behavioural indicators such as swimming and foraging using a three-score system, recognising signs of pre-slaughter stress and adopting humane slaughter methods.
"This is more than just learning theory. Farmers gain actionable skills to actively monitor and assess the welfare of their fish, allowing them to take control of welfare outcomes on their farms. Focussing on welfare enables farmers to enhance productivity, improve meat quality, and strengthen their farm’s reputation," Barrento continues.
"While this course is specifically focused on the behavioural aspects of tilapia welfare it is essential for welfare practitioners to assess all welfare indicators across the different domains: environmental, nutrition, and health. When all our courses are completed together, they provide a comprehensive toolkit for learners to become effective welfare practitioners on their farms and ensure their fish thrive," she concluded.
