The process of pond-based fish farming, or freshwater aquaculture faces far fewer technical and economic resource constraints and offers greater potential for innovation. At the same time, it contributes significantly more to enhancing food security, at both regional and global levels, than marine fishing and aquaculture.
While intensive fish farming often relies on protein-rich feed derived largely from heavy-metal-contaminated fishmeal or genetically modified soy, extensive freshwater fish production strives for more natural solutions. As previously mentioned, in our fish farming operations, intended for both consumption and angling, we aim to work in harmony with nature wherever possible.
It is also worth noting that while intensive (recirculating) fish farms can raise their products in as little as eight to nine months, extensive fish farms may require up to six years to produce a final product (as seen, for example, with carp raised to "boilie" size).
The Conversation, an independent news portal featuring articles written primarily by experts from universities and research institutes, has reported to its readership that freshwater aquaculture has seen uninterrupted growth over the past three decades. Currently, Asia - accounting for nearly ninety percent of global aquaculture production - lies at the heart of this continuous boom. However, this cost-effective and relatively simple form of freshwater fish farming also provides a vital livelihood for numerous small entrepreneurs and farms.
Alongside population growth, the demand for protein-rich fish products is also expected to rise rapidly. Beyond commercial production and sales, extensive fish farms contribute significantly to the preservation of natural ecosystems.
In contrast to fishing for populations that reproduce under natural conditions, the purposeful breeding and harvesting of fish in ponds, marine environments, or aquaculture facilities offers a more environmentally friendly and sustainable solution. Furthermore, aquaculture is considered one of the fastest-growing food production sectors in the world.
While wild-capture fishing depends heavily on weather conditions and the climate, fish farming allows for greater planning and control (e.g., setting up pools and tanks; raising fish to specific sizes; the freedom to choose the species for cultivation and sale; providing farmed fish with appropriate feed, etc.).
Although fish farming under controlled conditions involves intervention in natural processes (rearing, regular feeding, protection against predators, etc.) and serves commercial purposes, this type of activity has a significantly smaller ecological footprint than fishing without stock replenishment.
Notably, an article published by the World Economic Forum in April 2021 highlights several studies in which scientists point out the sustainability and ecological benefits of freshwater fish farms, their low economic and resource constraints, and their potential for research and development.