Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture - Ancient, Adaptable Concept Focuses On Ecological Integration

In integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, farmers combine the cultivation of fed species such as finfish or shrimp with extractive seaweeds, aquatic plants and shellfish and other invertebrates that recapture organic and inorganic particulate nutrients for their growth. Such systems take advantage of synergistic interactions among species while biomitigation takes place for greater environmental and economic stability, as well as societal acceptability. Culture organisms must be chosen based on their complementary functions in the ecosystem, as well as economic potential.