Aquaculture refers to what occurs when people farm fish for food. It makes seafood circulate. There are two main forms of fish farming: land-based and ocean-based. Now both have their own pros and cons. We will discuss the differences between land-based and ocean-based fish farming and their implications for the environment and the economy.
Discussion: Comparison of Environmental Impacts
Land-based fish farming is on land in tanks or ponds. In this way, farmers can regulate the environment of the fish. They have control over the temperature, quality of food, and quality of water tolerated. This helps to maintain the aquaculture fish healthy as well as reduce the incidence of disease. It also reduces the chance that fish would escape and wreak havoc with wild fish.
Marine fish farming, though, raises fish in pens or cages in the sea. It may permit fish to have a natural lifespan, but it might be dangerous for the environment as well. Fish waste will pollute the water and kill other marine life. Escaped fish that get out may blend with the wild fish, which is detrimental to the species of the fish.
Seeing the Economic Perspective
It can be more expensive to set up and operate land-based fish farms than ocean-based fish farms. Land, equipment and power for aquaculture industry or tanks can be expensive. But land-based farmed fish can also fetch a higher price, maybe because they have space to grow bigger and healthier.
The initial investment of fish farming in the ocean is typically less expensive since it uses ocean water and currents. However, farmers may have problems, including adverse weather and water quality. If left uncorrected, it can ill the fish and affect the bottom line of the farm.
New Technologies for Terrestrial Farming
Land-based farming aquaculture is evolving, with new technology enabling it to be improved and more sustainable. Aquaponics is one of the ways that involve rearing fish in conjunction with growing plants without the use of soil. The fish waste serves to fertilize the plants, in a cycle that benefits the fish and the crops.
Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) is another technology applied in land-based fish farming. The systems purify and recycle water in the tanks so that they use less fresh water and produce less waste. This will conserve resources and reduce negative growth on the environment.
