Abstract

Aquaculture, also known as fish farming, has emerged as a vital industry in meeting the growing global demand for seafood while ensuring sustainability and reducing pressure on wild fish populations. This article highlights the importance of aquaculture in addressing the seafood supply-demand gap and explores sustainable practices implemented to mitigate environmental impacts. Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) are discussed as effective approaches to minimize waste, promote ecosystem health, and conserve water resources. Certification programs, such as the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), are crucial in setting standards for responsible aquaculture. Furthermore, advancements in fish feed formulation, including plant-based feeds and alternative protein sources; contribute to reducing dependence on wild-caught fish. The socio-economic impacts of aquaculture, including employment generation and poverty reduction in coastal communities, are also emphasized. As aquaculture continues to evolve through innovation and technology transfer, it holds great promise in addressing food security challenges and promoting sustainable seafood production while preserving marine ecosystems.