Aquaculture

Abstract

Freshwater aquaculture dominates finfish farming in what has become a global industry, though still based largely in eastern Asia. In 2010, nearly 400 species of aquatic animal and plant were reportedly produced on farms (not including >100 species grown commercially as ornamentals). Most important are omnivorous and herbivorous finfish of the genera Aristichthys, Carassius, Catla, Ctenopharyngodon, Cyprinus, Hypophthalmichthys, Labeo spp., Oreochromis and Pangasius. Growth rate and yield depend upon a farmer's ability to balance stocking rate and inputs against water quality. Inorganic fertilizers; manures, both green and animal; supplemental feeds; and complete diets are the main inputs that drive productivity. Aeration is used to replace oxygen consumed by the fishes, plankton and bacteria in the water column and sediments. Water exchange and biofiltration serve to remove ammonia and solid wastes. Most fishes are grown in ponds or cages suspended in an open waterbody. Negative environmental impacts of aquaculture are associated with discharge of eutrophying nutrients, use of chemicals and escape of non-indigenous or genetically altered (mostly through selective breeding) culture animals. The application of best management practices can minimize these threats, increase production and reduce risk to aquaculture.