Abstract

Aquaculture is the rearing of aquatic organisms under controlled or semicontrolled conditions. It involves plant and animal rearing with the objectives of providing human food, recreational fishing, enhancement of commercially valuable stocks, recovery of endangered species, and the production of bait and ornamental species. Aquaculture is conducted in ponds, raceways, cages, and net-pens. It may also involve suspending molluscs from rafts or ropes, rearing them in baskets or trays, or placing them on the bottom in the natural environment. Technology levels range considerably with the highest level being found in conjunction with recirculating systems. Culturists attempt to control water quality, reproduction and diseases. They also employ feeds specifically designed for the animals being produced. Most species are maintained in captivity throughout the life cycle. Selective breeding is often used as a means of improving stocks of cultured organisms. Diseases can pose significant problems for aquaculturists. Avoidance of stress reduces disease incidence, but treatments, including drugs and vaccines are available for at least some aquatic animal diseases. The final task of the aquaculturist is to ensure that the product reaches the processor in the best possible condition. Careful handling during harvest helps ensure product quality.