Which type of aquaculture system uses less water and is more sustainable?

Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) are designed to recycle water within the system, which significantly reduces water usage compared to open water systems or traditional pond systems. In RAS, water is filtered and treated before being returned to the tanks where fish or other aquatic organisms are raised. This not only conserves water but also enhances sustainability by minimizing the environmental impacts often associated with aquaculture, such as water pollution and habitat degradation.

Moreover, RAS allows for more precise control over the aquatic environment, including parameters such as temperature, oxygen levels, and waste management. This controlled setting can lead to healthier fish and higher production rates, addressing both economic and environmental sustainability goals. In contrast, open water systems typically rely on natural water sources and can lead to depletion or contamination of those sources, while pond systems are dependent on larger land areas and may involve significant water loss through evaporation and seepage. Freshwater ranching may also have varying water requirements depending on the practices used. Therefore, RAS stands out as a leading approach for sustainable aquaculture.