THE FUTURE OF CAPTURE-BASED AQUACULTURE

Capture-based aquaculture has social and economic advantages and disadvantages compared to full-cycle aquaculture. In many situations, especially in developing countries, capture-based aquaculture can provide income and livelihoods to sectors of the population that may otherwise be excluded from aquaculture. However, it can also result, among others, in loss of societal benefits from the loss in yield from the wild stocks and conflict.

Markets have been the driving force behind the development of capture-based aquaculture and will continue to be in the future. It is anticipated that capture-based aquaculture will continue to expand in the short-term, both for those finfish and non-finfish species currently being cultured and possibly with others that may be selected for aquaculture in the future. However, the main constraint to expansion is “seed” supply. Wild seed supply has not been able to keep up with the increasing demand from farms. The capture of wild seed is being increasingly regulated. It is important that means be found to rear these species throughout their full life-cycle that are economically viable. Farmers will also need to reduce their production costs to meet changing market demands. Any future expansion of capture-based aquaculture will also need to address damage to the environment caused by its activities and regulate itself in a more sustainable manner. In all cases, there will be positive and negative social and economic impacts that will need to be managed more strategically.