Aquaculture: Past to Now and Beyond

Aquaculture operations can supply food to meet part of the demand for certain species, thereby relieving fishing pressure on some wild populations. Herbivorous species (such as tilapia) are preferred for aquaculture because they do not require protein for food. Oysters, clams and mussels are good aquaculture species because they do not require supplemental feeding. Properly implemented, aquaculture also has minimal impacts on the environment. Recirculating water systems in ponds and tanks reduces waste discharge to the environment. These designs will also allow operations to be moved inland away from the vulnerable coastal areas.

Some aspects of aquaculture can reduce sustainability or have adverse environmental impacts. Some operations use many pounds of wild fish protein to produce a few pounds of farmed fish protein with a higher market value. Organic wastes, chemicals and pharmaceuticals discharged from enclosures can be harmful to the environment. Construction of ponds can damage coastal wetlands or disturb natural water flows.

Seafood Savvy is brought to you in partnership with Monterey Bay Aquarium.