SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE: WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT, FISH HEALTH, AND ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Aquaculture has become an important component of global food production, providing fish and other aquatic products for human consumption, employment, and economic development. However, the expansion of aquaculture has created challenges related to water quality deterioration, disease outbreaks, excessive nutrient discharge, feed management, and the environmental effects of intensive production systems. Sustainable aquaculture seeks to address these challenges through responsible resource use, improved fish health management, efficient feeding practices, and effective waste treatment. This paper reviews the major factors influencing sustainable aquaculture, with particular emphasis on water quality, aquatic animal health, feed efficiency, waste management, and emerging production technologies. It examines the potential of recirculating aquaculture systems, biofloc technology, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, and biological approaches to disease prevention. The paper also considers economic limitations, technical barriers, regulatory requirements, and opportunities for small-scale fish farmers. The literature indicates that successful aquaculture management requires a coordinated approach that considers production efficiency alongside environmental protection and animal welfare. Although modern technologies can improve resource efficiency, their effectiveness depends on appropriate design, energy availability, technical knowledge, and regular monitoring. The paper concludes that locally adapted management strategies, stronger biosecurity, responsible feed practices, and improved access to training can contribute to resilient and environmentally responsible aquaculture systems.