Fishery is the science and business of catching, rearing and processing fish. Aquaculture is the controlled rearing of fish and other aquatic animals in ponds, tanks or cages.
Types of Fisheries
- Marine (sea) fisheries: fishing in oceans and seas (e.g. trawling).
- Freshwater (inland) fisheries: fishing in rivers, lakes and ponds.
Fish Farming Systems
- Extensive system: fish raised in natural waters with little management.
- Intensive system: fish raised in controlled ponds/tanks with feeding and management.
- Integrated system: fish farming combined with crops or livestock (e.g. fish + poultry).
Common Farmed Fish
- Catfish (most popular in Nigeria), tilapia and carp.
Management of a Fish Pond
- Prepare the pond (liming and fertilising before stocking).
- Stock with healthy fingerlings at the right density.
- Feed regularly with balanced feed.
- Maintain water quality (oxygen, pH).
- Control predators and diseases.
- Harvest at the right size.
Remember: A good fish pond should have a supply of clean water, be free of predators, and have a proper inlet and outlet for water flow.
Summary
Fisheries involve catching or rearing fish. Aquaculture rears fish in ponds and tanks. Common farmed fish include catfish and tilapia. Good pond management includes preparation, stocking, feeding, water quality control and disease prevention.
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