Welfare and diseases under culture conditions

Abstract

This chapter reviews the welfare and diseases that have been reported since cephalopods are maintained, reared or cultured in captivity. Although cephalopod welfare is only going to be assured in terms of the European Union (EU) legislation from January 2013, it has long been enforced in other regions or countries all over the world. Pathologies registered under captive conditions derive, most of the times, from bad welfare practices. A revision of cephalopods' immune system and the most important pathologies are presented, which are divided into viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic pathogenic agents as well as chemical and mechanical damages. In addition, information regarding healing, antibiotics application and surgery is provided. Welfare under research and commercial culture conditions is discussed in terms of the use of anaesthesia and euthanasia agents and their assessment in terms of effectiveness. Further research on the different aspects considered is suggested.