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Study finds evidence that crabs can feel pain
The reserachers recorded brain activity in reponse to both physical and chemical stimuli.
Researchers call for more humane treatment of shellfish. 

Scientists have said that the way shellfish are killed needs to change, following a new study that suggests that shore crabs can feel pain.

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, used EEG-style measurements to test the response of shore crabs to different stimuli.

Although previous observational studies had suggested that crustaceans might feel pain, the researchers were the first to study the brain activity of shore crabs to test for signs that they can feel pain.

Eleftherios Kasiouras, lead author of the study, explained: “We could see that the crab has some kind of pain receptors in its soft tissues, because we recorded an increase in brain activity when we applied a potentially painful chemical, a form of vinegar, to the crab's soft tissues. The same happened when we applied external pressure to several of the crab's body parts”

Although the crabs responded to both forms of stimuli, the researchers recorded a shorter and more intense response to physical stress than chemical stress.

Shellfish are not currently covered by animal welfare legislation in the EU despite being widely used in science and
aquaculture. In the UK, decapod crustaceans such as lobsters, octopuses and crabs were recognised in 2021 as sentient beings under the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill.

Lynne Sneddon, zoophysiologist at the University of Gothenburg, said: “We need to find less painful ways to kill shellfish if we are to continue eating them. Because now we have scientific evidence that they both experience and react to pain.”

The study has been published in the journal Biology.

Image © Shutterstock)

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.