This bibliography lists (in alphabetical order) 457 books, journal articles, conference proceedings, etc., relating to the subjects of aquaculture economics and management. These are then indexed by author and subject.

"This book attempts to assess the usefulness of aquaculture or the farming of aquatic animals and plants in helping to increase world protein.. It attempts to discern areas of the world that suffer from food shortfall, but at the same time have high potentials for adopting aquaculture because of climate, availability of land, or coastal shore and relatively low prices of inputs. We have directed our research toward the small farmer in developing areas who has found that the prescriptions of developmental economics have not proven to work in the short run." [from Preface]

"The FAO study and other similar efforts can help decision-makers to avoid spending resources on programmes and projects based on inappropriate premises. This article attempts to illuminate a few of the many facets of the problem and to draw the attention of Ceres readers to the need for new and perhaps more realistic approaches to aquaculture development." [from article]. In particular, employment, investments, marketing constraints, and social aspects are discussed.

"Economic investigations of fish farm operations are necessary to assess the efficiency of operations and provide bases for entrepreneurial decisions. It is suggested that such investigations should be carried out in three stages, namely: (i) an overall survey of the industry; (ii) detailed study of sample fish farms; and (iii) study of pilot farms. If a common book-keeping system is followed by fish farming industry, comparison of data will be possible. The contribution method of book-keeping seems to be simpler and better suited to fish farming. Based on this, some key indicators should be worked out for rentability, liquidity, solvency, etc.

A detailed chart of accounts for use in fish farm book-keeping is presented. Calculating production, budgeting of operations, income and cost, assets, liabilities and equity, are illustrated with examples. The key values to be calculated are the degree of contribution, break-even point and security margin. An outline of financial analysis is described and an economic model of a fish farm is presented along with illustrative examples. The ‘internal rate of interest’ and ‘present value’ are the two most precise methods for evaluating investment projects." [from Abstract]

5. Blakely, D.R. and Hrusa, C.T. 1989. Inland aquaculture development handbook. Oxford, UK, Fishing News Books Ltd.

"What is most needed to insure the success of aquaculture operations is a comprehensive source of aquaculture information. This source should be of practical value and contain information which the local fish farmer or extension agent can understand and apply.

This book is an attempt to compile, in a concise and readable manner, all facets of freshwater aquaculture operations in developing nations. To this end we have focused on the culture of fish most common to these countries, important environmental considerations, management and business advice and, particularly, the integration of aquaculture with land farming systems. Our goal in writing this handbook is to provide the farmer or local extension agent with a comprehensive source-book which he or she can use to improve the efficiency and profitability of a fish culture operation. A comprehensive bibliography is included at the end of the book for those individuals desiring a more thorough analysis of a particular topic. A glossary is also included to aid those individuals unfamiliar with aquaculture terms. It is our hope that this book, while providing little ‘new’ information on aquaculture, will disseminate standard and proven aquaculture practices to fish farmers of all countries." [from Preface]

This text looks at aquaculture production in 31 countries worldwide, from western and eastern Europe to Asia and the South Pacific.

"Economic data, which are difficult to obtain, are presented when possible for production systems by species. Producer prices, marketing margins, and consumer prices appear; and data on imports and exports are presented when possible. An attempt has been made to present the most recent and pertinent information available." [from Preface]

"Despite its recognized practical importance, the fishery socio-economics literature is widely dispersed and often inaccessible. This report presents the results of an international effort to compile this literature and to assess the ‘state of the art’ in socio-economic research on developing fisheries and aquaculture. The report consists of two key elements: (i) an extensive annotated bibliography, containing over 1 100 references from across the developing world; and (ii) a series of regionally-based assessments of fishery socio-economics research, for Africa, Latin America and Asia/Pacific." [from Abstract]

"The objective of this book is to describe how the concepts and practice of modern marketing management can be applied in the fish industry.

The early chapters focus on the philosophy and mechanism of market need identification and satisfaction. This is followed by a review of how the information from this activity can provide the basis for the correct product positioning, new product opportunities and the development of appropriate marketing strategies." [from Preface]

"In the first section, the status and potential for development of coastal aquaculture in selected African countries are presented. A general review of this development in the continent as a whole introduces individual country studies (Egypt, Ghana, Madagascar, Mauritius, Nigeria, and Tunisia).

The second section presents selected aspects of coastal aquaculture development: socio-economic aspects related to its planning and implementation; some of the particular problems encountered with the development of penaeid shrimp culture; review of the experience gained in the Mediterranean countries; brackishwater pond culture and fish-pen aquaculture in Far Eastern Asia; and coastal marine cage culture of fish based on the recent technology developed in Malaysia." [from Abstract]

"A bibliographic list of 451 selected books providing information related to freshwater aquaculture in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. Author, geographic, taxonomic and subject indexes provide further assistance in locating the information required." [from Abstract]

"A bibliographic list of 423 selected books providing information related to marine aquaculture in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. Author, geographic, taxonomic and subject indexes provide further assistance in locating the information required." [Abstract]

"Four lists of selected publications related to aquaculture contain: (i) 152 titles of regular serials and 88 titles of irregular serials/annuals, with information on location, date, frequency, and languages of publication; (ii) 92 titles of newsletters and similar information; (iii) 18 references for the proceedings/reports of regular meetings and 252 references for meetings held in 1966-1990; and (iv) 191 references for bibliographies/ directories/glossaries. Author, geographic and subject indexes provide further assistance in locating the information." [Abstract]

"A bibliographic list of 418 selected FAO documents published during the period January 1966-December 1989 and related to aquaculture. Author, geographic, taxonomic and subject indexes provide further assistance in locating the information required." [Abstract]

"Four lists of selected publications related to aquaculture contain: (i) 121 titles of regular serials and 87 titles of irregular serials/annuals, with information on location, date, frequency and languages of publication; (ii) 44 titles of newsletters and similar information; and (iii) 15 references for the proceedings/reports of regular meetings and 141 references for meetings held in 1966-1982. Author, geographic and subject indexes provide further assistance in locating the information required." [Abstract]

"This bibliography lists about 900 titles relating mostly to the cultivation of finfish and crustaceans in cages, both in marine and in inland waters. The titles are indexed separately from the taxonomic, geographic and subject points of view." [Abstract]

"In the development of aquaculture methods throughout the world, knowledge about the economics of the various methods is essential. High-density culture, such as in cages, raceways, and enclosures, is becoming more widespread and information about the economics is scattered and fragmented. The present study brings together the economic aspects of these methods of high-density aquaculture." [from Abstract]

"This report embodies the findings of the Working Party on the Research Needs of Tropical Aquaculture Development. The Working Party conducted its deliberations in two sessions. Session 1 examined research needs from a development perspective and formulated general principles on research priorities. Session 2 dealt with research opportunities from the scientific viewpoint. It also reviewed potential applications to aquaculture that may arise from future scientific developments. Current weaknesses affecting national research capacities and approaches to enhance international co-operation in aquaculture research were also discussed during the two Working Party sessions." [Abstract]

Economics and sociology are discussed as areas needing research for tropical aquaculture development. The ways in which theoretical economics and applied economics can make potential contributions to aquaculture are discussed.

"An attempt is made in this publication to create a framework for a truly interdisciplinary approach to research and education in integrated farming - a fusion of agricultural and aquacultural sciences." [from Preface]

"This manual presents a simple method of keeping fish records and describes the methods of analysing the information recorded. Also included is a simple description of practical economics relevant to small fish farmers. This manual is primarily meant for aquaculture extension workers who are expected to assist and train fish farmers individually or collectively.

The text is divided into two parts: Part I deals with simple economics for fish farmers and Part II with bookkeeping for fish farmers. This manual is based on the information contained in the FAO Fisheries Circular No. 763. The original manuscript for this manual was prepared by Mr. Colin Williams and edited by Mr. P.C. Choudhury." [from Foreword]

"Growth in food production through aquaculture between 1975 and 1980 has been substantial, but varying from country to country and product to product. This paper addresses the problem of analyzing the causes of such differences in growth in aquaculture production in order: (i) to predict future growth; and (ii) to better understand how a rapid and rational growth of aquaculture industries can be promoted nationally, regionally and globally.

The study concludes that the data currently available to FAO are quite inadequate, as yet, to make the required analyses. It nevertheless demonstrates that useful indications can be obtained even from the information presently available, and elaborates several approaches that could be usefully applied as soon as better data are available. The report calls attention to the utility of comparing changes in aquaculture to both the capture fisheries and agriculture in analyzing local, national and regional differences. Noting the markedly different levels of production among countries in relation to a variety of commonly employed indicators of agricultural resources, and corresponding differences in the problems of encouraging growth at different levels of intensity production, the authors define and contrast Aquaculturally Developed Countries and Aquaculturally Developing Countries. The resulting classification cuts across the more general Developing/Developed Country contrast.

Finally a method is explored for assessing the relative importance of constraining factors based on a relatively subjective ‘expert rating’ system, and an indication given of how a useful analytical model of trend analysis could be developed." [Abstract]

"This bibliography aims to facilitate access to recorded experience and data regarding the costs and earnings in fisheries and livestock industry, to stimulate the sharing of information and to broaden knowledge of the field." [Abstract]

"This bibliography aims to facilitate access to recorded experience and data regarding fish marketing development, to stimulate the sharing of information and to broaden knowledge in the field." [Summary]

"As aquaculture production can be increased to a considerable extent, properly planned and managed development should be able to contribute considerably to an increase in food supplies. By improving the physical well-being and quality of life of the rural poor, their productivity and ability to contribute to the national economy may be enhanced. Viability is the leading principle on which aquaculture development should be based and a variety of yardsticks should be used. The socio-economic importance of aquaculture may be assessed by the added ‘value’ which is produced and that portion of which is retained in rural areas. To this end, adequate marketing must also be arranged.

In order to achieve maximum results, the various factors of production and their interplay must be studied and appropriate steps taken for both vertical and horizontal integration of the operative enterprises. In the majority of developing countries probably all factors will be taken into account with a strong bias towards small-scale and labour-intensive enterprises. At the government level, care must be taken in establishing realistic ‘quantified objectives’ with regard to labour renumeration, quantity to be produced, employment and ownership, etc. Government participation will normally have to include surveys of natural resources, the provision of national and international technical assistance and general and special services and infrastructures." [from Abstract]

Part I of this book discusses farm-level optimization models; Part 2 addresses farm-management applications; and parts 3 and 4 contain articles on econometric industry models and marketing applications.

This article discusses the environmental damage caused by the large demand for freshwater by aquaculture and then attempts to calculate a value for the water resource.

"Although the global production-ratio fish to meat approximates 0.6, the role of fish in many developing countries is more important than this ratio suggests. Since it is becoming more and more obvious that capture fishery resources are not unlimited, emphasis has been given to enhancement of aquaculture in order to close the increasing gap between demand for and supply of fish. Total international assistance to the aquacultural sector amounted to some $US 370 million over the period 1978-84. Such an investment is only justified as ‘a means to an end’, e.g., as a means to ultimately contribute to the autonomous growth of the industry. Against this background the role of aquacultural research is discussed. It is argued that aquacultural research should not only be production oriented, e.g., related to fish, to fish husbandry systems, and to fish farming systems, but that research should also be resource oriented and take into account the market (purchasing power and consumer behaviour), the socio-economic feasibility and viability, as well as the adequacy of target groups as future producers. The major challenge to the researcher lies in contributing to the development of those aquacultural operations, which are socially acceptable, economically feasible, and which have a high scope for multiplication in the target area." [from Abstract]

These worskhop proceedings are divided into three sections: (i) micro-economic analysis of existing production systems; (ii) micro-economic analysis of experimental production systems; and (iii) socio-economics of aquaculture. As well as individual country case studies, each section contains theoretical articles on basic concepts and definitions.

"This report, containing 111 entries, is a selective working bibliography of sources of economic data and of previous economic analyses relating to the aquaculture of certain crustaceans and molluscs. It is primarily concerned with the Northern (American) lobster but it includes references for the spiny lobster and for some crabs, oysters, shrimps and prawns." [Abstract]

"The subject material [in this book] flows easily from initial concepts on the role of aquaculture into production economics, management, marketing, and governmental policy. Basic economic principles for each are explained with ample illustrations. There is a mix of examples taken from the United States and other countries of the world. Thus, the student completing the study should be able to understand a wide variety of subjects and/or problems related to the economics of aquaculture." [from Preface]

This article explores the issue of developing a fish culture industry to provide food for low-income households. Issues such as technology, markets, purchasing, policy, and costs and profits are discussed with examples given from countries in the developing world.

"Coastal culture of mussels (Mytilus spp) is an efficient method of converting marine pytoplankton into nutritious and palatable food. The total world production of mussels is

30 000 - 400 000 t (weight in the shell), with Spain and the Netherlands being the leading producers. Increased production is possible although there are several constraints to rapid increases in production.

The economic components for five examples of different systems of mussel farming, including bottom culture (the Netherlands), bouchot culture (France), raft culture (Spain), rack culture (Italy), and a system of submerged collectors (the Philippines) are reviewed. For each system, information is provided on rent, inventory items, expendable items, labour, sales and production.

The cost for each component in different systems varies considerably, depending generally on the degree of mechanization within the culture system. The costs of labour and raw materials required for culture also affect production costs. The amount of capital required to establish mussel culture is lowest in the Philippines, where considerable potential also exists for increasing mussel production through culture." [from Abstract]

"The recent history of crustacean farming is beset with failures as well as successes and it is this that has stimulated the preparation of this book. In it we attempt to provide the technical information required, and to address some of the problems faced by those new to the industry. The information will be relevant not only to all students of aquaculture but also to those who have responsibility for advising or making policy decisions concerning feasibility, investment, financing or implementation of crustacean aquaculture projects." [from Introduction]

This book places integrated fish farming in a global context, reporting on case studies of successful operations, experiments to enhance performance, bio-economic survey and modelling analyses, research on farm-waste utilization and pond ecology, socio-economic elements of extension and adoption, and the biotechnical and economic aspects of adapting to reservoirs, marshlands, rice paddies and marginal habitats. The book contains evaluations of developments in Asia, Africa and Europe, with coverage of social, economic, organizational, and ecological perspectives.

"This book might be considered a farm management text for those in aquaculture. It is intended to provide an introduction to management, including business and people management, micro-economics, and the concepts of efficiency and productivity." [from Preface]

This document aims to provide a starting point in a field in which little bibliographic work has been done: credit in the fisheries sector. It is intended to facilitate the retrieval of information on the introduction of appropriate credit facilities for small-scale fishing communities. It compiles basic research conducted on the basis of FAO databases, the Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), the Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux (CAB) and the International Information System for the Agricultural Sciences and Technology (AGRIS).

The first chapter of this book outlines this report of the Pond Dynamics/Aquaculture Collaborative Research Support Project (PD/ACRSP). Chapter 2 discusses the social and economic factors in aquacultural development and Chapter 3 discusses modes of tilapia production. The research methodology used in this study is outlined in Chapter 4, an economic analysis is given in Chapter 5 and the survey results are given in chapters 6 and 7. The institutions for tilapia technology in Rwanda, Honduras, the Philippines and Thailand are mentioned, and in conclusion, the impacts of PD/ACRSP are discussed.

"The first part (Chapters 1-4) concerns Aquaculture Sector Planning. The first chapter provides an overview of the sector. It identifies a framework of all its diverse forms, and briefly describes the many systems and practices available for producing aquatic animals and plants. This is followed (Chapter 2) by summarizing the many environmental, social and market factors which influence the sector’s growth. Chapter 3 deals with the sector planning process, describing the many components of planning, and the problems, before ending with a description of regional planning. The first part concludes (Chapter 4) with the practical aspects of preparing a national sector plan, and the formulation of strategies for development.

The second part (Chapter 5-9) deals with aquaculture sector management. It begins (Chapter 5) by identifying the roles of the public and private sectors in management, and their seperate responsibilities, followed by the typical organizational frameworks in which they operate. It ends with the practical issues of organization and management, specifically identifying the management tools available to any government. Chapters 6, 7, and 8 describe in detail the three principal management tools, namely the policy instruments of legislation, fiscal measures and support services, and development projects, respectively. The second part ends (Chapter 9) with a description of the fourth important management tool, namely monitoring and evaluation.

The final part of the book (Chapter 10 only) concerns project planning and management." [from Preface]

An outline is given of economic prospects for the aquaculture industry in order to aid donors in setting priorities for planning purposes. Trends and development prospects are examined for: Africa, Asia, Latin America, Mediterranean and Near East, Caribbean and Oceania. The report states that future assistance to aquaculture has to be highly selective; it will be most valuable when provided in conjunction with development of biotechnical and socio-economic and in-country policy and management skills.

The proceedings of the Workshop on Women in Aquaculture includes discussions on the role of women in different parts of the world, including Latin America, West Africa, Asia, and Oceania.

"Although freshwater prawn farming forms only about 5% of the global aquaculture production of shrimps and prawns it is of considerable local importance, particularly in Southeast Asia. Recent entry into global markets is likely to stimulate renewed interest in Macrobrachium culture. This review summarizes the status of freshwater prawn culture globally, in terms of research, rearing technology, marketing and economics." [Abstract]

Bio-economic modelling is an analytical tool to help integrate the various biological, economic and social factors in fisheries and aquaculture. Its actual and potential applications in a tropical context are discussed in this paper.

"This paper reviews the basic concepts of welfare economics and focuses on market failures and possible remedies. It is aimed at non-economists and provides examples of market failures from aquaculture and suggests areas where policy changes and research are necessary. Aquaculture in Asia and Southeast Asia is characterized as an infant industry that requires a major research effort coupled with government assistance to realize its full potential. It is suggested that these efforts, however, should be confined to those areas where the market fails to produce a socially optimal allocation of resources." [Abstract]

"Aquaculture is an economic activity which is characterized by great dependence on environmental conditions. Therefore, aquaculture development is obliged to conform to an institutional context which defines the rules for use and conservation of the environment. This paper analyses the impact of marine environment regulations on the economic operating of aquaculture enterprises and on industrial dynamics.

Because aquaculture enterprises use a collective good, an economic approach of aquaculture has to take into account not only the relations between enterprises and environment, but also the relations between the enterprises themselves, through production externalities. In this study several economic tools are considered for encouraging enterprises to integrate part of the cost of their effects on the environment. But public policies have to take into account the youth of the activity, the specific economic situation of each enterprise, and the place of aquaculture in global coastal management." [from Abstract]

"This book is an attempt to bring together available information pertinent to environmental consequences of aquaculture development, with a view to assisting in the evaluation of future projects." [from Preface]. One chapter is devoted to examining the socio-cultural and economic impacts of aquaculture.

Part I of this book focuses on the principles of aquaculture. Subjects include the history of aquaculture, selection of sites and species, nutrition and feeds, as well as marketing, economics and financing, and management. Part 2 details the aquaculture practices of various fish, molluscs, and seaweeds.

"This text is an attempt to examine the basic considerations in planning aquaculture development and is intended to assist administrators and investors in making appropriate decisions on the form and level of the industry to be supported, the infrastructure to be developed and the investments to be facilitated." [from Introduction]

The first part of this paper applies a generalized model of socio-cultural factors influencing the diffusion of innovations to the problem of aquaculture development. The second part looks at potential problems associated with a shift from marine capture fisheries to mariculture. It examines the socio-cultural aspects of introducing aquaculture systems into communities adapted to small-scale marine capture fishery.

"In order to increase the low standard of living (or more specifically the low incomes) of small-scale fishermen a number of development alternatives have been presented. These alternatives include upgrading vessels and gear, restricting fishing effort, subsidizing the industry, improving marketing and postharvest technology, and rural development programmes. The benefits and costs of each of these alternatives has been examined in a number of studies and it is agreed that no single alternative can solve all the problems faced by small-scale fishermen. It is commonly accepted that any successful development programme will involve a combination of alternative solutions to deal with the complex and interwoven problems faced by small-scale fishermen.

In this paper only one alternative solution will be discussed, that of switching and/or integrating small-scale fishing with aquaculture. This alternative will be presented in the context of rural development programmes which provide an alternative income source and food supply to fishermen and their families. The provision of alternative sources of income, whether aquaculture, cottage industry or agriculture, reduces fishing effort and provides a long-term solution to raising the incomes of small-scale fishermen." [from Abstract]

"On a worldwide basis, pond culture of finfish produces about 75% of the production in weight and utilizes about 90% of the area devoted to aquaculture. It is estimated that it has stimulated a capital expense investment of about $ US 3 500 million. The potential for increasing aquaculture production through expanding pond culture of finfish is high. An analysis is made of the economics of finfish pond culture in order to: (i) establish improved management practices that will make the industry more profitable; and (ii) guide the formulation of policies and programmes which affect development of the aquaculture industry. The species considered in this study are; milkfish, common carp, Chinese carps, Indian major carps, catfishes (channel, Clarias, pangasid), tilapia, grey mullet, eel and rainbow trout. The profitability of the use of monoculture versus polyculture and the use of extensive versus intensive techniques are explored with respect to a number of these species.

The economic profitability of aquaculture can be improved not only by increasing productivity and reducing production cost, but also by improving prices received by pond operators. This can be achieved by initiating improvements in the quality of fish and by better marketing strategy and channels." [from Abstract]

"With improved global transport, fish can be harvested in one hemisphere and sold as ‘fresh’ in another. An example is salmon, which is cultivated by countries in the southern hemisphere and sold as ‘fresh’ to North America. This paper examines the trade in salmon, and uses cost data to analyze competitive advantage. The paper concludes that salmon produced in the southern hemisphere will be serious competition for North American producers." [from Abstract]

"The principal components of a resource systems paradigm for analyzing the human ecological consequences of aquaculture development in developing countries are presented, specifically for freshwater pond aquaculture, based on examples from eastern Central Africa, southern China and Panama. Aquaculture as an innovative food production technology is examined in terms of the main perceptions in forming policy design, and the innovation adoption process by small-scale farm households. The principal social characteristics that influence the manner in which any innovation is received are discussed and, in terms of those, the impacts at the household, community and governmental-international agency level of the adoption of aquaculture, as well as major administrative changes within an old-established system, are examined." [Abstract]

"The paper outlines briefly the potential role of coastal aquaculture in integrated rural development and emphasizes the relevance of socio-economic aspects for adequate planning and implementation. As a first step of planning it suggests a comprehensive study of the socio-economic and socio-cultural determinants of the rural society for which the introduction of coastal aquaculture is considered. This analysis is expected to examine the structural deficiencies of the social system and to identify the actual needs of the target population groups for which the development of aquaculture appears viable. Concluding from the findings of the socio-economic analysis, the paper suggests to formulate a social postulate which, followed throughout planning and implementation, would ensure the development effort to yield a significantly positive socio-economic impact.

The process of studying a socio-economy and formulating the social postulate is outlined using a case study undertaken by the author in Kenya. Additionally, the importance of a legal framework and of marketing is emphasized, using as an example the shrimp culture industry in Ecuador.

The last part of the paper discusses the process of implementing coastal aquaculture and proposes the active and responsible involvement of the people as one of the decisive factors for its success. Additionally, it stresses the relevance of vertical and horizontal integration for coastal aquaculture." [from Abstract]

"This book consists of three parts: (i) production economics; (ii) marketing economics;and (iii) economic feasibility of investment analysis.

Production economics consists of seven chapters: basic principles, cost-return, partial budget, cash flow, production function, linear programming and risk and uncertainty. Three chapters cover marketing economics: basic marketing principles, market demand analysis, and marketing infrastructure and systems. Economic feasibility of investment analysis is discussed in three chapters, including the methods of analysis, financial analysis, and economic analysis. The concluding chapter reviews the modern tools for economic analysis applied to aquaculture. In the chapters dealing with methods of analysis, the usefulness of the analysis, the data needed, and the procedures/methodology of analysis are provided and followed by examples and case studies. Chapters 2 and 9 dealing with basic economic principles are included mainly for those readers without an economics background. For readers interested only in investment assessment, chapters 3, 4, 5, 12, 13 and 14 would be useful." [from Introduction]

"Economic research on aquaculture can be broadly classified into four categories: (i) production economics, consisting of budget analysis, production function, linear programming, bio-economic modeling; (ii) market studies, containing demand function analysis, market survey, market structure, conduct and performance study; (iii) project evaluation, comprised of social benefit-cost analysis and internal rate of return analysis; and (iv) development policy, such as economic impact analysis.

The major constraints for an economic study in aquaculture are: insufficient economic data, lack of cooperation among aquaculture experts, diversity of aquaculture research, and the use of inappropriate data and/or methods for analysis." [Abstract]

"The economics of aquaculture is reviewed on two levels: micro and macro. Micro-economics in aquaculture deals mainly with the management measures and elements affecting the efficiency of operation at the farm level, while macro-economics addresses the assessment of social benefits and costs of an aquaculture project. If aquaculture is socially beneficial but unattractive to private investors, public support to credit, marketing, extension, training, and research may be appropriate, especially during the early stages of development. The importance of economic analysis is emphasized since it provides a basis not only in the decision making of the individual farmer, but also in the formulation of aquaculture policies. Thus, greater attention should be focused on the improvement of economic data for analysis." [Abstract]

"The main objectives of this paper are to outline: (i) the basic biotechnical means that can be used to increase production of a given area, which relate to inputs and costs: (ii) the components of biotechnical development that should be subject to economic analysis: and (iii) the basic economic tools for analysis of experimental projects (costs and return, partial budgeting, discounting method, sensitivity analysis, etc.)." [Abstract]

"This paper examines the extent to which protein from selected aquatic herbivorous species is less costly to produce than from aquatic carnivorous and omnivorous species. It will also attempt to answer the question of whether the culture of high-market value species leads to a higher rate of return." [from article]

"This book consists of four parts (that include eight chapters): (i) introduction to the economics of aquaculture; (ii) tools of research; (iii) economic analysis for aquaculture investment decisions; and (iv) policies for aquaculture development.

Part 1 reviews the importance of aquaculture, the kinds of aquaculture, and the factors affecting the economics of aquaculture. A summary of the basic principles of production economics applicable to aquaculture is also included. This part may be useful to those who are interested in aquaculture economics but do not have adequate elementary knowledge of the field. Part 2 reviews the importance of research on the economics of aquaculture and introduces the methods of fish farm record keeping and the socioeconomic survey. It is written mainly to guide those who are responsible for economic research and for fish farmers and extension agents. Part 3 discusses market-potential studies for public and private investors, the methods of investment planning, and an economic feasibility analysis. Part 4 discusses the strategies for and methods of promoting aquaculture development. This part provides guidance for public officials who are responsible for aquaculture development. Overall, this book is a basic reference for students interested in this relatively new area of study." [from Preface]

"The manual presents the considerations pertinent to marketing of aquaculture products with particular concern for the requirements of fish farmers producing small volumes. The topics discussed include: choosing products and markets; aquaculture economics and marketing decisions; distribution; pricing; communications with customers; quality; displaying fish; marketing cooperatives; planning and recording for marketing decisions." [from Abstract]

"This review is restricted to the culture of finfish and shellfish for food. The difficulties of collecting reliable and comparable data are discussed; Israel is noted as exceptional in these respects. Aquaculture is likened more to agriculture than to conventional fisheries, and a distinction is made between biological and economic efficiency of protein conversion. Accounting costs and profit margins are considered insufficient, there being a need for sensitivity analyses and opportunity costs. Capital intensity is a major constraint, especially in developing countries, but this situation may change as conventional fishing declines. More mathematical models are expected as data accumulates. A flow chart indicates decisions in appraising trout culture." [Abstract]

"The paper focuses on the role of relative prices in farmers production behaviour and presents a model for explaining output variations among farmers. In the context of this production mode, the concepts of output elasticity, economies of scale, and technical and economic efficiency are explained using illustrative examples. The type of data used and the estimation techniques are briefly described and the distinction between average and frontier production functions is emphasized." [Abstract]

"Aquaculture may not be the panacea for the world’s food problems, but it has the potential to make important contributions to diet and incomes in some areas. This book, intended to improve planning for further development of aquaculture, examines the factors that can determine the success or failure of aquaculture projects in developing countries. Focusing on Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East, the authors give specific examples of social, economic, and political constraints on aquaculture development, consider the acceptability of aquaculture products for consumption, look at income, production, and technology allocation, contrast fishing and aquaculture activities, and discuss appropriate organization of aquaculture enterprises. The case studies investigate aquaculture planning and projects in Costa Rica, Mexico, Sierra Leone, Botswana, Israel, and Egypt." [from Abstract]

"Aquaculture - raising marine or freshwater animals and plants in controlled environments - has been suggested as a partial solution to world food problems. Development projects in the Third World have been supported by international, national and private agencies interested in improving the quality and quantity of food throughout the world. Some of these projects have failed: some because of inadequate attention to social, economic, and political factors; others because of inadequate understanding of the mechanics of fish culture. Learning from these mistakes, developers of Third World aquaculture can plan future projects more carefully." [from article]

"The objective of this paper is to describe the role of women in the handling, processing, and marketing of aquaculture products. In the absence of adequate statistics, this paper relies heavily on studies of the role of women in processing and marketing in general, and of fish in particular. The performance of ‘fishmammies’ is highlighted to gain insight into the abilities, capacities, and constraints of women as fish processors and traders." [from Introduction]

"Fishery products represent one alternative to improve nutrition levels for low-income consumers. Governments and aid organizations in less developed countries often attempt to help low-income consumers and simultaneously to improve fishery marketing operations. Increased market stability beneficial to sellers and/or high-income consumers of fishery products may have serious distributional consequences in an equity context which completely eliminate low-income consumers from purchasing products. Aquacultural alternatives are discussed as means to satisfy low-income demands and raise incomes of sellers of fishery products." [Abstract]

"On the basis of information to date, the economic aspects of giant clam farming appear to be favorable. Further data on price and production parameters are required to increase confidence in that conclusion. Property rights considerations to clams and to areas of seabed will be critical to the success or otherwise of clam farming. Regardless of the profitability of clam farming, limited hatchery stocks and the growth rate of clams imply a 10-year delay in the flow of large numbers of clams onto the market." [Abstract]

A discussion is presented on the private-sector approach to aquaculture development in developing countries, describing a case history from a project being implemented in northeast Thailand, with the objective of increasing both production and consumption of fish by the rural poor. The study covers the sociological aspects of the project.

This bibliography contains references under the following four headings: (i) micro-economic analysis of existing aquaculture production systems; (ii) micro-economic analysis of experimental projects of new aquaculture production systems; (iii) socio-economics of aquaculture production systems; and (iv) periodicals regularly containing articles on the economic aspects of aquaculture.

"This aquacultural economics bibliography includes recently published and some unpublished United States and foreign literature (originally in or translated into English). Based upon US aquacultural activity and interest, the 262 entries are listed alphabetically within eight categories: catfish; trout; salmon; oysters and other molluscs; shrimp and other crustaceans; other animal species; seaweeds; and general. Included literature concerns production economics, methodology, demand, supply, markets and marketing, institutions, constraints, state of the art, investment analysis, data and other subjects. Some entries are general, or primarily descriptive, or of primarily non-economic content." [Abstract]

This article examines the question of why aquaculture development and increased production do not necessarily lead to increased equitable distribution, but may actually lead to further poverty for the rural poor.

"Many of the prawns that arrive on tables in Northern countries come from prawn farms in Asia or Latin America. These farms are the most conspicuous element of a recent surge in aquaculture production worldwide. Aquaculture is seen by many as a major source of food for the future, particularly since supplies of marine fish have started to decline. But whereas traditional fish farming has supplemented the diet of farmers and coastal communities for centuries, the new wave of aquaculture is increasingly commercial, producing luxury products for export at the expense of local people. Prawn farming is of particular concern because of the extensive environmental and social problems it is causing in some Southern countries." [Abstract]

"A simple outline of practical economics relevant to the lives of small fish farmers is described. Methods of designing simple book-keeping forms and of analyzing the recorded information are also included. This publication is primarily meant for aquaculture extension/training officers who are expected to assist the small fish farmers in designing and maintaining appropriate record-keeping formats." [Abstract]