What sustainable practices can boost yield in aquaculture?

Sustainable practices such as polyculture, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, and using organic feed can boost yield in aquaculture.

Polyculture is a practice where different species are farmed together. This method can increase yield as it utilises the farming space more efficiently. Different species have different feeding habits and occupy different niches in the farming environment. For example, carp and tilapia can be farmed together as carp feed on the bottom of the pond while tilapia feed on the surface. This reduces competition for food and space, allowing for a higher overall yield. Additionally, polyculture can also reduce the risk of disease spread as the diversity of species can break the disease cycle.

Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) is another sustainable practice that can boost yield. IMTA involves farming different species from different trophic levels together, such as fish, shellfish, and seaweed. The waste produced by one species serves as food for another, creating a closed-loop system that mimics natural ecosystems. This not only reduces waste and the environmental impact of aquaculture, but also increases yield as more species are farmed together. For instance, the waste produced by fish can be used to feed shellfish and seaweed, which in turn purify the water, creating a healthier environment for the fish to grow.

Using organic feed is another sustainable practice that can increase yield. Traditional fish feed often contains fish meal and fish oil, which are derived from wild-caught fish. This is not sustainable as it contributes to overfishing. Organic feed, on the other hand, is made from plant-based materials or insects, which are more sustainable sources. Organic feed can also improve the health and growth rate of farmed fish, leading to a higher yield. Moreover, organic feed can improve the taste and nutritional value of farmed fish, making them more appealing to consumers.

In conclusion, sustainable practices such as polyculture, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, and using organic feed can significantly boost yield in aquaculture. These practices not only increase yield, but also reduce the environmental impact of aquaculture, making it a more sustainable industry.