An interesting paper I found during my studies. Here's the abstract for those without the time to read a whole ass paper:
Abstract:
While invertebrates make up the majority of animal species, their welfare is overlooked
compared to the concern shown to vertebrates. This fact is highlighted by the near absence
of regulations in animal research, with the exception of cephalopods in the European
Union. This is often justified by assumptions that invertebrates do not experience pain
and stress while lacking the capacity for higher order cognitive functions. Recent research
suggests that invertebrates may be just as capable as vertebrates in experiencing pain and
stress, and some species display comparable cognitive capacities. Another obstacle is the
negative view of invertebrates by the public, which often regards them as pests with no
individual personalities, gastronomic entities, or individuals for scientific experimentation
without rules. Increasingly, studies have revealed that invertebrates possess individual
profiles comparable to the personalities found in vertebrates. Given the large economic
impact of invertebrates, developing certain attitude changes in invertebrate welfare may
be beneficial for producers while providing higher welfare conditions for the animals.
While the immense number and type of species makes it difficult to suggest that all
invertebrates will benefit from increased welfare, in this review we provide evidence that
the topic of invertebrate welfare should be revisited, more thoroughly investigated, and
in cases where appropriate, formally instituted