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About the Aquaculture Team
Fish are a major source of food for people throughout the world and the main source of protein for 1 billion people. Demand for fish is on the rise. From 1960 to 1996, world fish production for human consumption increased from 27 million to 91 million metric tons (mmt) and it is predicted that the demand will continue to rise. Over fishing and degradation of oceanic ecosystems have resulted in a decline of ocean fishing stocks. Aquaculture is one means to meet the increasing demand for fish. Currently, one quarter of the fish consumed by humans come from aquaculture, and this share is increasing.
With the increasing demand for aquaculture products, aquaculture can have an important in improving farm diversity, increasing profitability and improving financial stability. While some farms in the Commonwealth have converted to aquaculture operations, others are adding fish-growing components to their existing operations.
With the growth of the aquaculture in the region, there is an increasing need for research and education to support the industry. The mission of the Aquaculture Team is to provide this support.
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