The Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences (XMAS 2025)

Ecological aquaculture refers to a type of sustainable aquaculture whereby ecological principles are integrated in order to mitigate environmental impacts while maintaining economic viability. This study focuses on the feasibility of promoting of ecological aquaculture amongst small-scale farmers using the successes of China as a basis, whether historical or ongoing. The results presented in this study are also shown according to some identified ecological aquaculture systems like polyculture; rice-fish culture; mitten crab pond culture; and culture-based fisheries of filter-feeding carps. Among the key findings were that systems such as mitten crab and culture-based fisheries of filter-feeding carps can be profitable, and although complex and labor-intensive, they are limited in adoption by small-scale farmers. Critical factors for adoption among small-scale farmers are profitability, labor productivity, and the practicality of the system. The study proposes site-specific adaptations, technological integrations, and certification and branding to optimize economic and ecological benefits. In addition, with continuous improvement and supportive policies, ecological aquaculture will further promote the huge contribution to sustainable food systems and environmental conservation.

Small-scale Farmers,ecological aquaculture,Sustainable Farming,Integrated Systems,Development Policy