What is brackish water aquaculture primarily characterized by?

Brackish water aquaculture is primarily characterized by a mix of fresh and saltwater. This type of aquaculture operates in environments that have salinity levels between those of freshwater and seawater, typically ranging from 0.5 to 30 parts per thousand (ppt). The blending of these two types of water allows for the cultivation of species that thrive in these unique conditions, such as specific types of fish, crustaceans, and plants suited to brackish environments.

Utilizing brackish water is advantageous as it can provide a habitat for organisms that are not well-suited for purely fresh or saltwater conditions. Many aquaculture practices take advantage of estuarine systems where freshwater from rivers meets ocean saltwater, creating ideal growing conditions for various aquatic species.