Biotechnology in aquaculture

Aquaculture, or the farming of aquatic animal and plants species, represent s one of the fastest-growing food production sectors with an annual average growth rate of almost 10%. Along with important issues including environme ntal impact concerns and the promotion of aquaculture as a successful long- term industry, producers are increasingly examining the role biotechnology can play in sustained growth. Appropriate research areas include disease co ntrol, and reproduction, growth, development and nutrition of the cultured species. Potential commercial applications include enhanced growth rates, a ppropriate stock maturity regimes, more efficient food conversion, improved disease resistance and control, and efficient selective breeding programme s. Although it is important to consider the diversity of species exploited in aquaculture and the worldwide range of these activities, including both developed and developing nations, biotechnology holds much promise for the production of both new and improved products to meet consumer demands.