The demand for high quality fish products is increasing.  Likewise, world supplies of wild fish stock are decreasing.  So, aquaculture represents an alternative means to meet the increased demand for fish products.

To date, aquaculture is the most rapidly growing segment of the agricultural sector in most Asian countries.  In Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Indonesia some of the more established species currently produced on fish farms include catfish, pangasius, carps, eels, snakeheads, and tilapia.

Catfish

Catfish or hito is valued for food and sport.  It lives in many freshwater streams, and they are mostly nocturnal scavengers, living near the bottom in shallow waters.  Catfish usually measures less than 18 inches long.  The largest catfish, reportedly reaching a weight of 290 kg (650 lb) and a length of almost 13 feet is a European species, the sheatfish.

Pangasius

The giant Mekong Catfish or Pangasius which lives in the Mekong River, easily reaches 2.5 metres in length and is an important food resource.  Successfully cultured by the Thais, it now reaches the Philippines aquaculture.

Carps

Carp is reputed to be the most efficient plant eating fish and it has been used to control aquatic vegetation in China, the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.  It is an important food fish in many countries.  The grass carp (native to China) can weigh up to 32 kgs and feeds on water weeds.

Eels & Snakeheads

Eels & Snakeheads are naturally hardy and tough fishes, being able to survive transportation with limited water.  Their flesh are said to have medicinal powers.    Their resilience seems to endear them to Chinese and even Malay medicine.  Soups and dishes made from these fishes are reported to be able to cure many ailments.

Tilapia

Tilapia is a fast-growing tropical fish native to Israel.  They are prolific breeders and can be produced in outdoor ponds and indoor systems.  Tilapia can survive on a diversity of food.  Tilapia is extremely hardy they can withstand a relatively greater amount of disease and temperature variability.  Key factors in the success of tilapia farming are: appropriate ponds with concrete sidewall, water quality & availability, stock quality, feed quality and financial backing.

 

When you have all of the above, market viability is the next preference.