Resource-use efficiency in US aquaculture: farm-level comparisons across fish species and production systems

Understanding farm-level efficiencies of resource use is critical in comparisons the sustainability aquaculture production systems. We developed a set practical resource-use efficiency metrics to calculate and compare with resource-cost across major species systems US aquaculture. Results showed that no one system used all resources most efficiently. Intensive pond channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus demonstrated greatest water, energy, labor, management, capital resources, while RAS was efficient terms land feed use. Among wide array scenarios examined, more intensive generally were several metrics, but economic also depends upon business models effectively meet differing demand requirements customers. Thus, less economically sustainable areas relatively abundant water available at lower cost. Labor varied widely analyzed. Given increasing concerns related availability labor for farming USA, greater attention on farms warranted. The aligned common farm management tools (e.g. enterprise budgets) allow ease by researchers assess effects comparative new practices technologies under development.