International Programs

Aquaculture is the process of farming aquatic organisms either in natural or man-made bodies of water. The use of aquaculture dates back several thousands of years to the ancient Egyptians and the Chinese who created family fish ponds. Aquaculture is emerging as means of supplementing the dwindling natural stocks of aquatic organisms, and perhaps also as a means of providing nourishment from struggling nations. Today almost any aquatic species can be cultivated through aquaculture. Species most commonly used from aquaculture are tilapia, salmon, various bivalves, mussels, shrimp and aquatic plants. The aquaculture industry is based on demand, and the species which offers the largest profit are the ones being the cultivated. Shrimp are generally a luxury food enjoyed in restaurants around the world. Their increasing popularity has increased the demand far beyond what can naturally be provided and has created a niche for shrimp aquaculture. As the value of shrimp as a cash crop increased, so did the number of farms in production and their consumption of natural resources. Environmental organizations have since begun a campaign toward a more ecologically friendly shrimp farming process. In recent years several non-profit organizations have been formed as advocates for the farmers to retain and reeducate the workers toward more sustainable processes. Many countries have written into law, regulations and environmental standards for public and private aquaculture ventures. Practices differ between neighboring countries based upon regulations and prosperity of the nation.