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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
07:20
Design and Use of an Apparatus for Quantifying Bivalve Suspension Feeding at Sea
Published on: September 5, 2018
Aquaculture: global status and trends.
John Bostock1, Brendan McAndrew, Randolph Richards
1Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK. j.c.bostock@stir.ac.uk
Summary
Aquaculture is a diverse food source, with shellfish and herbivorous fish dominating production. Future growth hinges on integrating environmental costs and sustainable practices for efficient, cost-effective aquaculture.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture and aquatic resource management
- Sustainable food production systems
- Environmental economics in agriculture
Background:
- Aquaculture provided 43% of aquatic animal food in 2007 and is projected to increase.
- Production is diverse, with shellfish and herbivorous fish utilizing natural productivity, alongside growing carnivorous species production.
- Current aquaculture systems often overlook environmental costs, posing future economic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the economic implications of integrating environmental goods and services into aquaculture production.
- To identify key factors influencing the future growth and sustainability of aquaculture.
- To explore the impact of external factors like climate change and fisheries supply on aquaculture.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of current aquaculture production trends and diversity.
- Assessment of economic models considering environmental costs.
- Review of potential impacts from climate change, feed supply, and technological advancements.
Main Results:
- Aquaculture's future economic viability depends on accounting for environmental services.
- Expansion, intensification, and efficiency gains are crucial for sustainable growth.
- Dependence on external feeds, water, and energy are critical considerations.
Conclusions:
- Integrating environmental costs is essential for sustainable and cost-effective aquaculture.
- Policy support for reducing resource footprints and improving integration can drive innovation.
- Aquaculture will remain a significant contributor to future food supplies, with a trend towards intensive systems.
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