From feeding to flourishing: Aquaponics strategies and their impact on Taiwan

Abstract

Over the past twenty years, global research on aquaponics has shown steady growth, particularly in areas such as system performance optimization, wastewater treatment, nutrient balance, and the efficiency of plant and animal production. In Taiwan, about 80 commercial-scale aquaponics producers are operating, with the top 20% occupying most of the production area. Recent trends over the past decade reveal four key inferences: (1) A decline in annual aquaponics research output in Taiwan; (2) An increase and diversification of aquaponics farms, with rapid growth among system vendors, though stable, large-scale commercial operations are still lacking; (3) Ongoing challenges like poor summer crop growth and increased winter market competition; and (4) Broad agreement on the social value of aquaponics, despite lagging administrative support. The aquaponics industry in Taiwan, despite varying system designs, emphasizes sustainable practices and their benefits to environmental and social well-being. Strong community support persists, yet challenges like extreme temperatures, winter competition, administrative hurdles, and difficulties in leasing land and obtaining licenses remain. As aquaponics contributes to both food production and community nourishment, diversified models are essential for food security. To ensure sustainable growth, enhanced administrative support and better understanding of consumer preferences and industry dynamics are crucial.