Aquaculture - a sustainable source of protein
Queensland Aquaculture is Environmentally Responsible
All aquaculture in Queensland is closely regulated to reduce environmental impacts. For this reason all producers require licenses and must meet strict environmental standards.
The Australian Prawn Farmers Association also has an Environmental Code of Practice approved under the Queensland Environment Protection Act.
Queensland aquaculture is diverse and operates a range of species in different geographic locations. Hence a wide range of environmental practices are used depending on circumstances.
Proximity to the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef requires special care is taken with meeting standards to ensure there are no adverse impacts.
Much of Queensland aquaculture occurs in fresh water. This includes much of the large Barramundi farming sector, red claw crayfish, and species such as silver and jade perch. As these production systems discharge fresh water that can be used to irrigate crops, the environmental impacts can be positive as they allow multiple use of scarce water and provide the nutrient to crops and pasture.
Some other forms of aquaculture, notably oyster growing and scallop ranching actually improve water quality as these are filter feeders that clean large volumes of water as they feed and grow.
Research and Development
Recognising the importance of environmental management, one of the highest priorities for research and development supported by the aquaculture in Queensland is into remediation systems.
Fish Meal in Aquaculture
A concern often raised about aquaculture is the use of fish meal. This provides protein and oils that are essential to a healthy diet for growing fish.
Fortunately, the fish mainly used in fish meal are bony small fish that tr5aditionally have been used in animal feeds. The high value aquaculture industry is providing a more valuable market for these meals. Overall, the fish meal harvest is sustainably managed.
The Australian Prawn Farmers Association has prepared an article with more detail about this issue. To see that article click here.