Undertaking aquaculture research

Description

Undertaking aquaculture research involves systematically investigating aquatic farming methods to improve productivity, sustainability, and environmental compatibility. This strategy addresses challenges such as disease control, resource efficiency, and species selection by developing innovative technologies and best practices. Its practical intent is to provide evidence-based solutions that enhance food security, reduce pressure on wild fish stocks, and support livelihoods, thereby remedying inefficiencies and ecological impacts associated with traditional and unregulated aquaculture practices.

Implementation

Genetic engineers have designed fish for better flavour and colour as well as for faster growth, improved disease resistance, and other traits. Two farmed species -- silver carp and grass carp -- already rank among the ten most-consumed fish worldwide. A specially bred tilapia, known as the "aquatic chicken," takes six months to grow to a harvestable size of about 700 grams. A biotech firm in Waltham, Massachusetts, has applied for government approval to commercialize salmon genetically engineered to grow four to six times as fast as their naturally occurring cousins.