Development of an integrated aquafarming system

The integration of aquaculture into agricultural production systems to intensify profitable food production without environmental degradation appears to be a promising option for small farmers in developing countries. However, for the adoption of novel production systems, economic considerations are the main driving force. The farmer has to be convinced of the long- and short-term benefits and profits of different farming systems options. The potential farmer-aquaculturist needs site-specific holistic information packages of different production options in order to combine traditional knowledge with modern scientific results. The possible production intensities, profits and risks have to be quantified, and the impacts on the environment, the family and society have to be determined. The multifaceted obstacles to developing a sustainable integrated aquafarming system are presented for a case in the Philippines. -from Author