3 Fish Farm Systems You Need To Know About

Fish farming is perhaps the most popular form of aquaculture, thanks to the consistently growing demand for fish and fish protein. While overfishing in wild fisheries tend to deplete our natural resources and mess the balance in our ecosystem, aquaculture is developed to answer our needs while preserving nature. Are you planning to become a fish farmer? If yes, then you ought to know the top three types of farming systems:

Cages

This is the most popular and convenient aquaculture system in off-shore sites such as oceans, freshwater lakes, and ponds. In this system, durable cages are constructed and stocked with fishes. Once filled, the fishes are fed artificially and then sold or used once they reach market standards.

The caging system is relatively easy to handle and allows you to raise a wide variety of fishes. These reasons make it a good option for both beginner and expert farmers. Some things you have to be wary of in this system, however, are the spreading of disease and poaching.

Ponds

For farmers who want to start out small, this is the best option. To create a pond farm, you will need a ditch or pond that is able to retain water. Some bentonite clay for lining the pond will be needed as well as an irrigation system, preferably above ground, although you can opt to use buried pipes with headers. In this farming system, you can easily raise fishes, but you will have to be wary of their environment. For optimum results, you must:

• Control the water's quality---regularly check the water's clarity and pH levels. Fertilize the pond, if needed, but make sure the oxygen levels remain stable.
• Provide sufficient fish food---you can rely on commercial fish food or the algae growing on your fish pond.

Recirculation

Otherwise called the "close-loop" system, this method uses water tanks for raising fish. Basically, water circulates and recirculates through the tanks, passing through different filters to ensure that:

• The water remains clean and clear
• Oxygen is replenished
• Waste products are turned to beneficial organisms

Although this farming system is known to provide high yields, it is also known to require significant installation and maintenance costs.

Starting a fish farmer is not easy as there are numerous things that must be considered such as the types of fish and food to use and your location. Nevertheless, you can successfully do so by learning everything about the business and carefully considering your options. Learn more about the farming systems introduced here, get in touch with aquaculture organizations in your community, and start your own fish farm today.