Chapter 3

Introduction to Aquaculture

Paula Cruz e Silva

Abstract

Farmed fish have been produced for more than four thousand years, but the most significant developments only arise in the last 50 years. Nowadays, fish and crustacean obtained in aquaculture systems represent almost 45% of all the fish products placed in the global market, about 160 million tons. Aquaculture involves human intervention in the life cycle of the cultivated organisms, and requires special techniques applied to housing, reproduction, feeding, fattening, healthcare and package to market distribution. The fish farms location depends on the species, space availability, climatic characteristics and environmental impacts. Most common regimes of exploitation are intensive, especially when they are intended for productions to be placed on the global market. Different production systems have distinct requirements in terms of ecological, reproductive and sanitary management, and their control is mandatory for the economic success of the aquaculture system. Health management is a key issue for the success of animal exploitation system.

Total Pages: 45-60 (16)

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