Importance and Types of Aquaculture

by Akash Sharma Akash Sharma

Aquaculture is farming fish, algae, aquatic plants, and other organisms in controlled aquatic environments. It is different from commercial fishing, which involves catching fish in their natural habitat. It produces algae and other plant organisms for animal feed, hence supporting the food chain.

Presently, the demand for seafood has increased. This means that it is possible to grow food in oceans and marine waters. Therefore, aquaculture serves a lot of purposes. Here are some reasons why it is crucial.

1. Food Production

An increasing amount of healthy and nutritious food can be produced due to the huge potential that comes with aquaculture. There is a huge demand for seafood presently. Half of the seafood that is consumed today is due to aquaculture. 

When compared to other meat-producing animals, fish are easier to keep. This is because they can convert more feed to protein, hence reducing the overall costs as well.

2. Fuel from Algae

Aside from being an alternative source of food, it can be a source of fuel as well. There have been slow developments leading to algae being a source of fuel, and they could replace fossil fuels. Algae are small aquatic organisms that trap sunlight and store them in the form of oil. When extracted, these lipids or oils can produce a fuel that has only water as a by-product.

This could be greatly beneficial for the environment.

3. Increase in Jobs

As the production from this industry increases, it can be deduced that more labor would be required. Pools need to be maintained, and the grown organisms need to be harvested.

This is more significant in developing countries. Aquaculture provides both a source of food and labor for people who live in these countries. Moreover, aquaculture saves a lot of time as fishers aren't required to wait long hours fishing.

4. Great for the Environment

Mollusks and seaweed act as filters. As the water carried by the current passes through them, they sift through it. This cleans the water and protects the remaining part of the sea from the pollution produced on land. 

Aquaculture has a minimal impact on the environment, according to research. The impact that it does have is temporary and restricted.

5. Good for Health

Seafood is an excellent source of protein. However, they also have immense nutritional value. This means that natural oils are included in the diet, such as Omega3 and fatty acids.

Additionally, they offer white meat, which is much better for reducing cholesterol levels when compared to red meat. It is also learned that seafood can help fight cancer, Alzheimer's, and cardiovascular diseases. This makes them all the more popular, increasing demand.

There are various aquaculture services that you can avail of. A good example would be the KCT Group, which is led by Varun Thapar. One of the leading business conglomerates in India, it has a major interest in aquaculture and fisheries.

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Created on Nov 16th 2021 02:46. Viewed 275 times.

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