June 14, 2024 | The fish site |
Daniel Grosse and Geri Unger recently published an extensive study on the state of aquaculture and aquaponics in the US and abroad, commissioned by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. They found that while American aquaponics businesses often struggle with investment and consumer interest, there are promising opportunities for growth. Key hurdles include securing long-term investment and managing initial overpromises. Grosse and Unger noted that many operations, such as Superior Fresh, focus on profitable crops like lettuce and cannabis, with fish serving mainly as a nutrient source.
The study highlights the low seafood consumption in the US, averaging just 14 lbs per person per year, which impacts market dynamics. Grosse and Unger advocate for a more gradual scale-up approach and better integration of business expertise in aquaculture ventures. They also call for increased government support to protect local fisheries from cheap imports and to support the sector's growth. Despite challenges, both researchers are optimistic about the potential for aquaponics and RAS systems to enhance food security and create jobs.