For every kilogram of a carnivorous fish species,
3 to 15 kg of wild fish feed is required.
These wild fish are often juveniles of other commonly consumed fish species, such as herring, sardines, and anchovies.
Some aquaculture operations may also source juvenile fish from the wild to grow out in farms.
Source: FAO SOFIA 2020, Research report on China’s trash fish fisheries Greenpeace East-Asia 2017,
The use of wild fish as aquaculture feed and its effects on income and food for the poor and the undernourished,
FAO Technical Guidelines For Responsible Fisheries
Mismanagement of aquaculture destroys and pollutes the very environment we raise our fish in.
Shrimp mariculture is responsible for 38% of the world’s mangrove loss.
Packing lots of fish together in one small space pollutes water with a mix of uneaten food pellets, dead fish, fish droppings. Overstocked pens also give rise to diseases and parasites, which are then controlled by using antibiotics and harmful chemicals.
As a new, rapidly growing sector, aquaculture is not yet managed and governed effectively.
In some countries, there are no dedicated legislation and regulations to control aquaculture practices. When there are, administration often spreads across several departments.
The enforcement of laws and regulations is also hindered by difficulties in obtaining an aquaculture license and the poor participation of local communities such as producer associations.
Reduce the amount, frequency, and variety of seafood consumption
Choose sustainably caught or farmed seafood
so fish and shellfish populations will thrive and be available for future generations.
