Aquaculture is the production of marine and freshwater organisms under controlled conditions. Hundreds of different species of aquatic animals are raised in aquaculture and include fish and aquatic invertebrates cultured for food, the aquarium hobby, bait, recreational fisheries, research, private ponds, and stock enhancement of wild populations. Animal aquaculture was valued at $137.7 billion (USD) worldwide in 2012, with China’s production valued at $66 billion and the USA’s at $1 billion. Within the USA, major commercial commodities include channel catfish, centered around the Mississippi Delta; rainbow trout in the north/northwest, including Hagerman Valley, Idaho; Atlantic salmon in the Pacific northwest and Atlantic northeast; aquarium fish with production centered in Florida; baitfish in Arkansas; and goldfish and koi production scattered throughout the USA. In addition, other public and private entities, including research facilities, public aquaria, and hobbyists, are breeding numerous other species.
OTHER TOPICS IN THIS CHAPTER
Aquaculture
Overview of Aquaculture
Production Methods in Aquaculture
Production Medicine and Biosecurity in Aquaculture
Necropsy and Diagnostic Techniques in Aquaculture
The National Aquatic Animal Health Plan
Reportable Diseases and Regulatory Concerns in Aquaculture
Therapeutic Considerations in Aquaculture
Infectious Diseases in Aquaculture
Parasitic Diseases in Aquaculture
Bacterial Diseases in Aquaculture
Mycotic Diseases in Aquaculture
Viral Diseases in Aquaculture