Are you a saltwater aquarium hobbyist? If so you’ve likely heard of “captive bred” or “tank-raised” fish. Many aquarists prefer these captive-bred fish over wild-caught marine life because they are healthier and adapt better to their new home.
In this article, we will explain what salt water aquariums are and why salt water fish farming is so beneficial.
What Is Saltwater Aquaculture?
So, what is aquaculture? It’s the farming of aquatic organisms. It’s also a form of agriculture. It has become the fastest-growing food production system in the world. It accounts for more than half of all seafood consumed globally, according to NOAA.
Aquaculture provides jobs for millions of people worldwide who raise fish and shellfish on land or in coastal areas.
Why Aquaculture or Captive-Bred Marine Fish?
Aquaculture is the farming of fish and other aquatic organisms. It is a good way to meet the growing demand for fish. Aquaculture dates back thousands of years, but only in the last century has it become an industry with its science and technology.
Aquaculture falls into two main types. Extensive or commercial aquaculture. This includes cage culture, pond culture, and mariculture. Intensive or industrial aquaculture. This involves recirculation systems such as raceways or tanks.
The benefits of using fish from aquaculture include better growth rates than wild caught species (due to their being fed properly). They have less chance of disease transmission. This is because they have not been exposed to wild parasites. They also have better survival rates due to their being raised in captivity.
In addition, captive-bred marine fish are generally healthier than wild-caught specimens. This is because they will usually have undergone health checks before being released into the public aquarium trade
Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish Are Adapted to Captive Life
Tank-raised saltwater fish are used to living in a tank. This means they’re accustomed to a specific water temperature, water quality, and diet. Tank-raised fish have never been exposed to other types of food sources. Therefore it’s best if you stick with what they’re used to eating.
Breeding aquarium fish can also save lives by preserving the great coral reefs from destruction.
In the wild, some species will adapt their diets based on whatever food is available. However, this process can take several generations for most species.
The majority of tank-raised fish are captive bred (also known as “captive born”). These fish come from breeders who raise them in tanks specifically designed for that purpose—which means they don’t know how to survive outside of captivity!
If you introduce a tank-raised saltwater fish into your home aquarium after having fully cycled it yourself (see our previous article on how long it takes an aquarium cycle), then there’s no need to worry about adding any kind of supplement–you’ll be fine!
Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish Are Healthy and Disease Resistant
You can be confident that your tank-raised saltwater fish are healthy and disease resistant. The stress of capture and transport, exposure to parasites, disease, pollution, chemicals, and toxins are all avoided by purchasing a fish from a reputable source.
Conscientious breeders will make sure their stock is free of parasites before sending them out into the world, so you can expect that your newly purchased tank-raised specimen will arrive in tip top condition, ready for its new home.
Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish Are Easier to Care For
As you can imagine, a wild-caught fish is not used to living in a tank. A tank-raised fish has grown up knowing nothing other than its current environment. As such it is much more adaptable and will be much easier to care for.
One example of a saltwater fish bred in a tank is the captive-bred mandarin which you can find here by following the link.
Wild caught fish will require more work on your part when you first get them, as they need time to adjust to the new water conditions before they become comfortable enough to eat or play with their tank mates. Tank-raised fish will have already made this adjustment and are ready for fun!
Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish Have Better Coloration Than Wild Caught Species
If you’re looking for vibrant colors, tank-raised fish are a better choice. Tank-raised saltwater aquarium fish have higher survival rates than wild-caught species and therefore tend to be more colorful and full of life when they reach your home.
Wild caught saltwater fish can be stressed from being captured and transported to your local pet store. This can cause them to lose their coloration or hide in less visible areas of the tank. In addition, many captive-bred saltwater aquarium fish are bred with specific traits in mind (such as different fin types) that make them more attractive than their wild counterparts.
How Do I Find Captive Bred or Farm Raised Saltwater Fish?
In addition to finding captive-bred fish at your local fish store, you may also be able to find them online. Look for reputable online retailers who offer captive-bred and farm raised fish. For example, LiveAquaria offers captive bred clownfish and dragonets, along with other saltwater species that are available only in certain regions due to environmental factors.
The best way to ensure that you’re getting a healthy saltwater aquarium fish is by purchasing one that has been specifically bred in captivity or on a farm rather than caught in the wild.
Salt Water Aquariums Are Great for Your Saltwater Fish
If you’re thinking of adding salt water aquariums to your home, then captive bred fish are a great option. The main reason? They’re healthy.
Captive bred salt water fish are generally cheaper than their wild-caught counterparts, which makes them easier on your wallet as well as the environment. Plus, with tank-raised fish, you can make sure that all of your animals have good genes and aren’t carrying any diseases—especially important if you plan on breeding them later!
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