Freshwater aquaculture in China: ecosystem management for survival [fish farms, fish polyculture]

Freshwater fisheries in China are well-established, long-standing traditions. A great diversity of aquacultural practices occupy a highly significant place in the overall food production strategy. These practices exemplify the country's ecological approach toward use of available resources to sustain her enormous population. Annual fish production exceeds one million metric tons. The majority is derived from fish-farm ponds, natural lakes and reservoirs. The key to China's capacity to sustain her population centers lies in the traditional design of her agricultural landscape and, where ample freshwater resources exist, the role of aquaculture within it. In recent years, a number of newly devised methodologies and socio-economic incentives have been implemented. Some of these innovations are efficient while others require further evaluation.