Aquaculture and water environment

Aquaculture, as a sustainable method of fish farming, plays a pivotal role in addressing global food security challenges while necessitating careful management of the water environment. By cultivating aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, and mollusks in controlled environments, aquaculture systems reduce pressure on wild fish stocks and support livelihoods in coastal and inland communities. However, its growth must be balanced with environmental stewardship, as intensive farming practices can lead to water quality degradation through nutrient runoff, chemical pollution, and habitat disruption. Innovations in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), and eco-friendly feed formulations are key to minimizing ecological impacts while enhancing productivity. Ultimately, the future of aquaculture depends on harmonizing economic viability with the protection of water ecosystems, ensuring that fish farming remains a viable, low-impact solution for meeting humanity’s protein needs.