A new plan to build an octopus mega farm has scientists sounding alarms. Here’s why.
Over 90 million octopuses are caught and killed every year through commercial fishing processes. Now, a fishing company in Spain has proposed to build an octopus mega farm that would produce 3,000 tons of octopus meat a year or 1 million octopuses.
While those in favor of this plan state it will lessen the pressure on wild marine stocks, activists and scientists argue otherwise. Aquaculture has not contributed to fewer fish caught or reductions in overfishing, thus there is no proof that “mass production” of octopus would do the same.
Not only that, studies indicate octopuses are capable of experiencing pain and distress. Additionally, octopuses become aggressive and territorial when grouped, sometimes leading to cannibalism and even self-cannibalism. Reports suggest that the proposed octopus farms would have 10-15 animals per cubic metre.
Another argument to stop the farms from going ahead is the method by which the octopuses are killed. The octopuses would be put in containers with below-zero water. This method known as “ice slurry” is a slow and stressful death.
Octopuses are currently not protected under EU law. Supporting organizations that are working towards sustainable and human fishing practices helps protect these sentient beings from a life of suffering.
Support leading marine conservation organizations with VAKOVAKO. Set up a monthly donation today.
