Aquaculture, often referred to as aquafarming, is the practice of cultivating aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants under controlled conditions. This method encompasses the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of species like carp, trout, freshwater crayfish, clams, oysters, and various seaweeds. It is distinct from commercial fishing, which involves harvesting wild fish, and mariculture, a subset of aquaculture focusing specifically on marine environments.
The adaptability of aquaculture to these environments allows for a wide range of species to be farmed, catering to diverse market demands.