Pisciculture is the practice of raising fish for commercial or recreational purposes. The word is spelled as /ˈpɪskɪkʌltʃər/, with the first syllable pronounced as "pisk" (not "pis"), the second syllable pronounced as "kull" (not "kulture"), and a stress on the third syllable. The spelling of the word originates from the Latin word "pesce" meaning fish and "cultura" meaning cultivation. Pisciculture has become an important industry worldwide and plays a significant role in meeting the global demand for fish.
Pisciculture is a noun used to describe the practice of rearing and breeding fish species in controlled conditions for commercial or recreational purposes. It is a branch of aquaculture that focuses specifically on the cultivation of fish rather than other aquatic organisms such as shellfish or algae.
In pisciculture, various techniques are employed to manage fish populations, including selecting specific species with desirable traits, controlling water quality and temperature, providing appropriate nutrition, and regulating breeding and reproduction. These practices are intended to optimize fish growth, health, and overall productivity.
This specialized form of agriculture is often carried out in constructed ponds, tanks, or cages, where fish are raised from eggs or juveniles to marketable size. Pisciculturists may also rear fish for stocking purposes, which involves raising fingerlings to be released into natural bodies of water to enhance fish populations for conservation or recreational fishing.
By practicing pisciculture, individuals and commercial enterprises contribute to the sustainable production of fish, reducing the reliance on wild fish stocks and potentially alleviating overfishing in natural ecosystems. Furthermore, it provides a viable means of food production, creating economic opportunities and supporting the global demand for fish as a significant source of protein.
Overall, pisciculture plays a crucial role in meeting the world's growing population's increasing need for fish, promoting food security, conserving natural fish populations, and contributing to the overall welfare of human societies.
An artificial method of propagating fish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pisciculture" is derived from the Latin words "piscis" meaning "fish" and "cultura" meaning "cultivation" or "growing". Therefore, when combined, "pisciculture" essentially means the cultivation or growth of fish.