Overview
This lecture covers the background of aquaculture, its relationship to fisheries, types of aquaculture systems, and its importance for food security and resource protection.
Aquaculture and Fisheries Background
- Aquaculture is the breeding, raising, and harvesting of fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants.
- Historically, people relied on wild fish until overfishing and population growth led to fish scarcity.
- Fish culture began in China, with advancements in netmaking and fish farming since 2953 BC.
- The Romans valued fish as delicacies, but scientific progress in aquaculture was slow until later.
- Key pioneers in aquaculture include Jacob of Westfailia (England), Leonard Mascll (USA), and Mikamoda (Japan, pearl oysters).
- In the Philippines, fishponds likely started with Malay immigrants, with major developments in the 1940s and 1960s focused on milkfish.
- Modern aquaculture research centers exist in Southeast Asia and the Philippines, supporting local fish farming.
Importance of Aquaculture
- Aquaculture helps sustain the food supply and supports future generations by reducing pressure on wild fish stocks.
- It provides a means to produce fish sustainably and protect aquatic resources.
Types of Aquaculture Systems
- Pond Culture: Fish are raised in enclosed areas created by building dykes or bunds.
- Cage Culture: Fish are grown from juveniles to commercial size in water enclosed on all sides.
- Pen Culture: Fish are raised in enclosures open at the bottom, blending features of ponds and cages.
- Raceway Culture: Fish are reared in flowing water systems, allowing high-density populations.
- Recirculating Aquaculture System: Water is treated and reused, with less than 10% replaced daily, making it efficient and sustainable.
Fish Species and Environments
- Freshwater species include tilapia, carp, catfish, mudfish, and gorami.
- Brackish water species mainly include milkfish and prawns.
- Marine fish culture is experimental, with few species successfully reared in ponds and pens.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Aquaculture — breeding, raising, and harvesting aquatic organisms.
- Brackish Water — a mix of fresh and salty water.
- Hatchery — facility for artificially hatching fish or eggs.
- Wararf — platform extending into the water, supported by piles.
- Fakundation — process of making soil fertile with fertilizer or manure.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review types of aquaculture systems and their characteristics.
- Read about local aquaculture practices and identify key species farmed in your area.