Aquaculture contributes 43% of aquatic animal food for human consumption in 2007 and is expected to grow to meet future demand. It is diverse, dominated by shellfish and herbivorous/omnivorous pond fish. The growth of carnivorous species like salmon, shrimp, and catfish is driven by global trade and large-scale farming. Most aquaculture systems rely on low-cost environmental goods, raising concerns about their inclusion in company accounts. Climate change, resource competition, and new bio-engineering technologies are key uncertainties. Medium-term growth will require expansion in new environments, intensification, and efficiency gains. Intensive systems with monocultures remain significant contributors. Key issues include dependence on external feeds, water, and energy. New species may enter production, and policies supporting resource efficiency could lead to new developments. Aquaculture systems include freshwater ponds, cages, coastal ponds, and offshore cages. Freshwater ponds account for 60% of global production, dominated by carp. Coastal aquaculture includes brackish-water species like shrimp, which dominate 58% of brackish-water production. Offshore cages are cost-effective for high-value species, but management becomes challenging with larger cages. Marine molluscs and seaweed have long histories but have seen increased production and efficiency. Aquaculture is highly diverse, with smallholders and large companies coexisting. Resource interactions include water, energy, and feed, with significant impacts on ecosystems. Feed efficiency is a major challenge, with fish meal and oil being critical. Substitution of fish meal and oil with plant-based alternatives is ongoing, though challenges remain. Genetic management and selective breeding improve performance and disease resistance. Welfare and health management are critical, with vaccines and new therapies being developed. Engineering and systems technology, such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and offshore cages, are key to sustainable development. Aquaculture faces challenges including environmental impacts, resource competition, and the need for sustainable practices. Integration with fisheries, agriculture, and other systems is essential for sustainable development. The future of aquaculture depends on efficient resource use, technological innovation, and sustainable practices.Aquaculture contributes 43% of aquatic animal food for human consumption in 2007 and is expected to grow to meet future demand. It is diverse, dominated by shellfish and herbivorous/omnivorous pond fish. The growth of carnivorous species like salmon, shrimp, and catfish is driven by global trade and large-scale farming. Most aquaculture systems rely on low-cost environmental goods, raising concerns about their inclusion in company accounts. Climate change, resource competition, and new bio-engineering technologies are key uncertainties. Medium-term growth will require expansion in new environments, intensification, and efficiency gains. Intensive systems with monocultures remain significant contributors. Key issues include dependence on external feeds, water, and energy. New species may enter production, and policies supporting resource efficiency could lead to new developments. Aquaculture systems include freshwater ponds, cages, coastal ponds, and offshore cages. Freshwater ponds account for 60% of global production, dominated by carp. Coastal aquaculture includes brackish-water species like shrimp, which dominate 58% of brackish-water production. Offshore cages are cost-effective for high-value species, but management becomes challenging with larger cages. Marine molluscs and seaweed have long histories but have seen increased production and efficiency. Aquaculture is highly diverse, with smallholders and large companies coexisting. Resource interactions include water, energy, and feed, with significant impacts on ecosystems. Feed efficiency is a major challenge, with fish meal and oil being critical. Substitution of fish meal and oil with plant-based alternatives is ongoing, though challenges remain. Genetic management and selective breeding improve performance and disease resistance. Welfare and health management are critical, with vaccines and new therapies being developed. Engineering and systems technology, such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and offshore cages, are key to sustainable development. Aquaculture faces challenges including environmental impacts, resource competition, and the need for sustainable practices. Integration with fisheries, agriculture, and other systems is essential for sustainable development. The future of aquaculture depends on efficient resource use, technological innovation, and sustainable practices.