Genetic Improvement - There has been limited genetic improvement of aquaculture stocks so there are major opportunities for improvment through traditional animal breeding, broodstock development, germplasm preservation, molecular genetics, and allied technologies. Research will address improvement of growth rates, feed efficiency, survival, disease resistance, fecundity, yield, and product quality; genetic characterization and gene mapping; and conservation and utilization of important aquatic germplasm for use by producers.

Integrated Aquatic Animal Health Management - Despite progress in aquatic animal health, significant losses to diseases still occur. Research will address improvement of survival, growth, vigor, and well-being of cultivated aquatic animal stocks through integrated aquatic animal health research; improved technologies and practices, such as population health management; and development of health management products, including vaccines and therapeutics, and disease detection/diagnostic techniques.

Reproduction and Early Development - There are major opportunities for improved reproduction and early development of cultivated aquatic organisms. Research will address year-round maturation and production of gametes and fry of economically valuable species; development of specialized broodstock and grow-out stock; and improvement of systems to enhance reproductive efficiency.

Growth, Development, and Nutrition - There are substantial opportunities to improve the growth, development, and nutrition of cultivated aquatic organisms. Research will address improving survival, growth rates, feed conversion, environmental tolerances, and feed formulations and feeding strategies to reduce dependence on marine fish-based protein in aquaculture diets.

Aquaculture Production Systems - There are opportunities to improve the performance of aquaculture production systems through development and application of innovative engineering approaches and technologies. Research will address development and successful application to aquaculture of new technologies as well as relevant existing technologies and engineering presently employed in other sectors of the economy.

Sustainability and Environmental Compatibility of Aquaculture - The goal is to protect and conserve the nation's water resources and natural environments by conducting research and technology transfer to improve the sustainability and environmental compatibility of aquaculture production systems. Of primary concern is the protection and conservation of the nation's water resources.

Quality, Safety, and Variety of Aquaculture Products for Consumers - The goal is to improve the quality, safety, and variety of aquaculture products through research and technology transfer. Research will address improvement of the safety, freshness, flavor, texture, taste, nutritional characteristics, and shelf life of cultivated fish and shellfish; and development of new value-added products and processes.