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Regulation

What is Aquaculture?

As defined in Canadian law, aquaculture is “the cultivation of fish.”

More generally, aquaculture is the cultivation of aquatic organisms, including finfish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic plants. Aquaculture implies some form of intervention in the rearing process to enhance production, such as regular stocking, feeding and protection from predators and disease. Thus, aquaculture is more akin to farming than it is to fishing.

Aquaculture operations are found in all Canadian provinces and the Yukon Territory.

Fisheries and Oceans is responsible for developing and implementing policies and programs that support Canada’s scientific, ecological, social and economic interests in oceans and fresh waters.

Regulating Canada's Aquaculture Industry

Canada’s aquaculture industry operates under some of the world’s strictest acts and regulations. Fisheries and Oceans Canada partners with federal, provincial and territorial governments, and the aquaculture industry itself to ensure aquaculture is well managed and sustainable. Scientific advice provides the foundation for Canada’s federal and provincial governments to make informed decisions on aquaculture practices, regulations and environmental performance measures.

Date Modified: 2011-04-27

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