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Fish farming is the rearing of fish in a partially or fully controlled environment to improve productivity. It is a form of aquaculture where fish are bred for food and commercial purposes. The fish are kept in enclosures either on land or in natural water bodies. On land, concrete enclosures are made and the conditions enhanced to support fish life, while in water bodies, pontoon cages are made to prevent them from wandering off to the rest of the lake or river.
It has become a lucrative industry as it provides a solution for the global market. There are ideas for profitable small-scale fish farming you can start; they are as follows.
Cod Farming
Cod farming is increasing in popularity among fish farmers due to its previous low supply globally. Since the demand was high, the prices increased tremendously, making it an advantageous option for small-scale farmers. It is primarily produced in Europe in countries like Norway, which is leading global production by about 80%. Naturally, it does not thrive in freshwater, but you can rear them in controlled freshwater tanks with recent technological advancements.
Catfish Farming
Being among the most popular sources of animal protein in America, catfish farming has several benefits to both the consumers and the farmers. It has many health benefits and is also very delicious. Catfish can be reared in tanks or ponds, depending on your capital or preferences. They can be harvested at eighteen months of age, meaning providing a fast income for your business.
The most known catfish species are flathead, blue, and channel catfish. The type you choose depends on your market. Since cages have several advantages, you can rear them in these cages to increase their profitability.
Eel Farming
Eel farming is the perfect small-scale fish farming idea you can start if you have low capital. It does not require fancy ponds or feeds to start and maintain eel. Eels are scaleless snake-like fish with smooth long bodies. Their natural habitat is usually freshwater when young and seawater when ready to breed. Japan and Taiwan are the leading producers of eel worldwide, with China following in the lead.
Eels are carnivorous, and there are two types categorized according to their breathing methods; Monopterus(air) and Anguilla(water). For additional income, you can start a floating restaurant near your farm to provide fresh eels for your customers.
Ornamental Fish Farming
Before engaging in ornamental fish farming, ensure you possess some skills in this field, as managing this business requires some basic skills and knowledge about fish rearing. It is a simple business to start, and if you don’t have space, you can even start a home-based aquarium. Examples of ornamental fish are tetras, goldfish, guppy, bloodfin, black molly, etc.
Prawn Farming
Prawns farming is a lucrative small-scale business as it can be bred in ponds, irrigation schemes, natural water, concrete, reservoirs, etc. however, for the best results, rear them in ponds. It is suitable in a tropical and subtropical climate where it is sold locally and internationally. When constructing their habitat, ensure the soil is enough, ideally clay, mixed with silt or sandy loam, to promote water retention.
Tilapia Farming
Tilapia is among the most preferred fish for consumption globally; hence tilapia farming is a rewarding business where the demand is always high. They have rapid growth making them very profitable, especially for small businesses that require frequent returns to survive. Tilapia can survive in different environments, but it thrives most in warmer climates like the tropics. Their diet is cereal-based, and they are not carnivorous, so there will be no loss if you are rearing more than one type of fish.
Tuna Farming
Tuna are saltwater fish that are reared both for consumption and commercial. They are among the biggest exports of fish. It is prevalent in Japan as they are the biggest consumers of tuna globally, with countries like Mauritius, Ecuador, Thailand, China, Indonesia, and Spain as the most prominent exporters. Tuna are large and very active, meaning it is challenging to rear them as you will need a bigger space to allow them to live optimally. The species of tuna are bluefin, albacore, and yellowfin.
Salmon Farming
Salmon is also among the most popular fish consumed globally. They are produced from egg to a matured salmon ready for the market. The most common farmed salmon is the Atlantic salmon, and the most famous Pacific salmon are Coho and Chinook. They are usually vaccinated to prevent outbreaks because they are prone to contagious diseases, and sometimes, but rarely, they need additional treatments.
Conclusion
Fish farming is a business that provides income for many people, mainly small-scale farmers who cannot afford the expensive farming. It is a necessary sector as it satisfies market demand for animal protein. Companies are involved in this industry, from packaging, transport to fish farming products. Our company Hisea Dock is specialized in pontoon manufacturing to provide floating dock systems to farmers who rear their fish in water bodies. Our products are very reliable, contact us for more information.
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