Social and biophysical dimensions of ecosystems are inextricably related such that a change in one dimension is highly likely to generate a change in the other. Although change is a natural consequence of complex interactions, it must be monitored and even managed if the rate and direction of change threatens to undermine system resilience.

"An ecosystem approach to aquaculture (EAA) is a strategy for the integration of the activity within the wider ecosystem such that it promotes sustainable development, equity, and resilience of interlinked social-ecological systems."

Being a strategy, the ecosystem approach to aquaculture (EAA) is not what is done but rather how it is done. The participation of stakeholders is at the base of the strategy.

Implementing the EAA will require strengthening institutions and associated management systems so that an integrated approach to aquaculture development can be implemented and account fully for the needs and impacts of other sectors. The key will be to develop institutions capable of integration, especially in terms of agreed upon objectives and standards.

The widespread adoption of an EAA will require a much tighter coupling of science, policy and management. It will also require that governments include the EAA in their aquaculture development policies, strategies and development plans.

FAO. Aquaculture development. 4. Ecosystem approach to aquaculture. FAO Technical Guidelines for Responsible Fisheries. No. 5, Suppl. 4. Rome, FAO. 2010. 53p.