Fish farming means that large amounts of fish are bred and raised for the sole purpose of being food. This is called aquaculture, which has long been practiced by all types of people. You can find examples of fish farming all through out history, even as early as the Pre-columbian days. The practice spread from one place to another until it became widespread. It has become a very efficient way to produce food. The methods used are rapidly changing in fish farming, which is bringing more attention to the subject.
3 Pros of Fish Farming
Here are the following benefits that made fish farming a good thing for people.
1. It is a Good Source of Living
It provides a very secure and stable way for fisherman to earn a living. It also grants them more time at home, and a longer time frame of which they can harvest fish.
2. Fish Farms can be Made on Coastal Areas and Inland Lakes and Rivers
One of the good things about this is that fish farms can be made anywhere. The farms can be in the form of artificial ponds, enclosures within a natural setting and large tanks.
3. Keeps a Growing Supply of Seafood
Seafood provides many key nutrients and vitamins to the human body. Fish farming brings a more steady supply of seafood into areas that may not normally have this type of access. It also helps to lower the price of seafood.
3 Cons of Fish Farming
These are the following reasons that affect the industry and make fish farming also a drawback in the economy.
1. It Contributes to the Growing Issue of Water Contamination
As mentioned, fish farms can be made anywhere, where water is easy to be supplied. However, it is also for this reason that it made contaminating the natural water source easier. Often, waste products such as eaten foods, feces as well as dead fish are flushed into the water supply. Which raises large concerns about water contamination.
2. There is a Risk of Eating the Supplied Fish from Fish Farms
Even fish farms are using pesticides to avoid pest infestations. The fish are also mass treated with drugs in order to prevent sickness and disease. These are chemicals that not only affect the ecosystem, but also consumers health.
3. It Comes With an Environmental Impact
Large portions of the aquatic ecosystem have been destroyed in order to sustain fish farms.
Can Fish Farming Truly Provide a Greater Benefit?
With the issue surrounding the subject, it will never be easy to determine if the benefits of fish farming can outnumber its cons. With the pros and cons of fish farming stated, it can only help people understand both of its sides, but never really offer a resolution.
