ABSTRACT
Confining fish and other aquatic organisms at high densities is usually necessary for economically viable aquaculture. Integration of agriculture and aquaculture is also practiced in industrialized countries where wastes or cultivated crops are used directly as fish feeds or in their manufacture. The environmental aspects of aquaculture have become important considerations in its development. Fish diseases and parasites often cause great losses in aquaculture operations. Bacterial fish diseases have become very serious problems in aquaculture systems. A selective breeding program should consider the needs of both the industry and the consumer. Local fish and shellfish consumption customs are likely to be the key factors in determining market demand. The integration of aquaculture and conventional terrestrial agriculture can maximize profitability under the proper conditions. The legal aspects of aquaculture are sometimes complicated. Various socio-economic conditions will greatly influence the accepted price of an aquaculture product.
