Aquaculture Production

Question of the day? What factors do you need to consider before starting an aquaculture program?

Productive Characteristics of Aquacrops Ectothermic animals Body density is similar to habitat Save energy in getting food Multi-dimensional environment Growth rate often rapid Efficiency of feed conversion

Ectothermic Animals Body temperature same as environment No energy used to regulate body temperature Energy goes to growth

Body Density Fish and crustaceans near that of water Less energy used to support weight More energy for growth

Search for Energy Efficiency occurs when energy is not used to search for food Some species are filter feeders

Multidimensional Environment Various space and positions used by different species Polyculture is used Aquaculture structures for space use include pens, cages and others

Rapid Growth Some species grow rapidly May be used as food by other species Some species reproduce rapidly

Efficient Feed Conversion Ratio of feed to gain is conversion Aquatic species more efficient than terrestrial species Fish = 1.4 pounds feed to 1 pound gain Beef Cattle = 4-8 pounds feed to 1 pound gain

Characteristics to Consider in Selecting an Aquacrop Reproductive habits Egg and larvae requirements Nutritional needs and feeding Polyculture ability Adaptability to crowding Disease resistance Market demand

Importance of Reproductive Characteristics Reproductive process must be understood Stable supply of seed Amenable to selection and stock improvement

Characteristics of Eggs and Larvae Need large eggs Need hardy larvae Massive quantities Frequent reproduction Amenable to artificial hatching

Characteristics of Nutrition and Feeding Selection based on: Low on food chain High on food chain

Polyculture Ability Ability to thrive with other species present Variety of organisms use different niches in system More volume produced

Crowding Adaptability Intensive systems use high population density Crowding causes potential problems Good management is essential