akvakultúrája

Akvakultúra, also known as aquaculture, is the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants. It involves cultivating these organisms under controlled or semi-controlled conditions, distinguishing it from commercial fishing which harvests wild populations. The practice can take place in freshwater, brackish water, or saltwater environments.

The primary goals of aquaculture are to produce food for human consumption, but it also serves purposes like restocking depleted wild fisheries, producing ornamental fish for the aquarium trade, and cultivating shellfish for pearl production or the restoration of marine habitats. Common species farmed include salmon, trout, tilapia, shrimp, oysters, mussels, and seaweed.

Aquaculture systems vary widely, ranging from extensive ponds and raceways to highly intensive recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Extensive systems typically involve large bodies of water with minimal intervention, relying on natural productivity. Intensive systems use tanks or cages with high stocking densities and require more sophisticated management of water quality, feeding, and waste removal.

Globally, aquaculture has grown significantly as a source of seafood, helping to meet the increasing demand for aquatic products. However, the industry faces challenges such as disease management, environmental impacts, feed sustainability, and the responsible use of antibiotics and chemicals. Sustainable aquaculture practices aim to minimize these negative effects and ensure the long-term viability of the industry.