Evaluation of aquaculture in Taiwan — Status and constraints. In：J.B. Marsh (ed.)

Abstract

The objective of this chapter is to outline the culture style of the species currently under aquaculture in Taiwan, as well as the potential candidates for culture and to describe their present culture status and existing problems. The prospect for future development of aquaculture is also briefly discussed. Milkfish culture is well developed, not only in shallow water but also in deepwater ponds. However, there are still problems, such as overwintering and over-production. The eel culture industry has earned a good reputation and hundreds of millions in foreign exchange. Effective control of disease, increased research in artificial propagation, and establishment of complete and more effective marketing systems in the eel industry require full attention. In terms of quantity, tilapia is the most important cultured species produced in Taiwan. Although the future of tilapia culture is still promising, tilapia farmers have lost some interest due to overproduction and depressed market prices. Grass prawn, however, is Taiwan's most important cultured species in terms of value of production and is also regarded as the most suitable species for culture in. the world. To develop further the prawn culture industry in Taiwan, techniques for brood stock raising, proper measures of disease prevention and treatment, and management of water resources need to be established as soon as possible. Furthermore, the aquaculture industry will be benefited through further diversification of its cultured species. As in horticulture, such diversification will benefit both consumers and producers. The future of aquaculture should stress continued development of sea-ranching as well as improvements in current culture techniques.