What fish are farmed the most?

With wild fish stocks under pressure, the world is turning to aquaculture. This shift is essential for our global food security, but it raises important questions about what we farm.

Globally, carp, tilapia, and salmon are the most farmed fish, prized for their rapid growth and adaptability. Aquaculture production has now surpassed wild fisheries, highlighting its critical role in meeting the world's protein demand, with output exceeding 180 million tons in 2022.

As someone who has worked with aquaculture operators for years, I've seen this industry's explosive growth firsthand. The sheer volume is staggering, but the real story is in the details. Knowing which fish lead the pack is just the first step. To truly understand the opportunities, we have to look at which species work best in different regions, which ones to be wary of, and ultimately, which ones can build a profitable business. It's a complex picture, but one that's crucial for anyone involved in feeding our planet.

What is the most farmed fish?

You hear about different farmed fish, but it's often unclear which one truly dominates the global market. This makes it hard to understand industry trends and investment opportunities.

Carp is the most farmed fish species in the world, largely due to its dominance in Asia where it is a dietary staple. Following carp, tilapia and salmon are massively popular for their fast growth, resilience in various farming systems, and widespread consumer appeal.

When I look at the global numbers, the scale of carp farming is immense, but the rapid expansion of tilapia and salmon farming¹ tells a story about modern aquaculture. These species have become global commodities because they are incredibly efficient to produce. They represent the intensification and technological advancement of an industry that is racing to keep up with demand. Each of these fish has unique characteristics that make them suitable for different environments and markets, which is key to their success.

The Unseen Champion: Carp

In many parts of the world, especially Asia, carp² is the undisputed king of aquaculture³. It's a hardy fish that thrives in a variety of conditions, from traditional, low-tech ponds to more complex integrated farming systems. Its resilience makes it a reliable choice for farmers, and its long-standing place in regional diets ensures there is always a constant, stable demand. While it may not have the global glamour of other species, carp is the quiet workhorse that forms the backbone of the global aquaculture industry, providing essential protein for millions.

The Global Commodities: Tilapia and Salmon

On the other end of the spectrum are tilapia and salmon, which have become true global commodities. Tilapia, often called the "aquatic chicken," is prized for its incredibly fast growth cycle in warm water environments. Salmon, with its high market value, has spurred massive investment and innovation in both offshore sea-cage farming and cutting-edge, land-based Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)⁴. These two species represent the commercial, high-tech face of modern aquaculture, engineered for efficiency and tailored to meet the tastes of a worldwide consumer base.

What type of fish is commonly farmed in the US?

The global aquaculture scene is one thing, but the U.S. market operates with its own set of leaders. Focusing on the wrong species can be a costly mistake for American farmers.

In the United States, the most commonly farmed fish are catfish, tilapia, and rainbow trout. These species are perfectly suited to the nation's climate, consumer tastes, and the well-established pond-based aquaculture systems that are prevalent in the Southeastern states.

I've seen firsthand how regional factors shape the industry in the U.S. It's not just about what can be grown, but also about what Americans want to eat. Catfish has a deep cultural connection in the South, making it a reliable market. At the same time, the versatility of tilapia and trout allows them to be farmed in different systems across the country, from ponds in the south to indoor tanks in the north. This specialization is a hallmark of the American aquaculture industry⁶.

America's Catfish Heartland

The Southeast is the undisputed heartland of American aquaculture⁷, and catfish is its star. The region's warm climate and vast expanses of flat land are ideal for the large, traditional pond systems where catfish thrive. This isn't just an industry; it's a culture that has been perfected over generations. The deep connection to catfish in Southern cuisine provides a stable, local market, making it a reliable foundation for the nation's seafood production. For these farms, durability is key, and our robust liners⁸ are essential for maintaining the integrity of these extensive pond systems.

Adaptable and In-Demand: Tilapia and Trout

Beyond the catfish belt, tilapia and rainbow trout have carved out significant niches. Tilapia's incredible adaptability makes it a prime candidate for various farming methods, from traditional ponds in the south to advanced, indoor Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) across the country. This flexibility allows it to be farmed closer to urban centers. Trout, on the other hand, prefer the cooler waters found in states like Idaho, where they are commonly raised in concrete raceways. Their popularity in restaurants ensures consistent demand, making them another pillar of the U.S. industry.

What farm raised fish to avoid?

Not all farmed fish are created equal; some can carry health and environmental risks. Choosing the wrong fish can expose you to contaminants or support unsustainable farming practices.

I advise consumers to be cautious with certain imported fish, such as some varieties of Asian sea bass or tilapia, where farming practices may involve the overuse of antibiotics or result in the accumulation of contaminants. To ensure you're making a safe and sustainable choice, always look for certification from the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC).

From my perspective as an equipment supplier, I know that clean water and responsible management are everything. When corners are cut, it not only harms the environment but can also impact the quality and safety of the final product. This is why I always steer my clients and friends toward certified sources¹¹. A certification isn't just a label; it's a guarantee that the producer is following best practices for water quality, feed, and animal welfare. It's the most reliable way to protect your health and support responsible farmers.

The Risks of Unregulated Farming

In some parts of the world, aquaculture operates with minimal oversight, which can lead to significant problems. The routine use of antibiotics to prevent disease in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions is a major concern, contributing to antibiotic resistance¹². Furthermore, fish raised in polluted waters can accumulate heavy metals and other contaminants, posing a direct health risk to consumers. These are not just abstract risks; they are real threats found in some imported seafood products. As I see it, avoiding fish from these sources isn't just a preference, it's a necessary precaution for your health.

The Power of Certification

This is where third-party certification becomes an essential tool for consumers. Organizations like the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC)¹³ and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP)¹⁴ establish and enforce strict standards for responsible farming. When you see their logo on a package, it's a clear signal that the fish was raised without the misuse of antibiotics, in clean conditions, and with respect for the environment. From my experience, supporting certified producers is the most effective way to vote with your wallet for a safer, more sustainable aquaculture industry. It provides peace of mind that you are not exposing yourself to unnecessary health risks.

Which fish farming is most profitable?

Starting a fish farm is a major investment, and you want to be sure you'll see a good return. Choosing a low-profit species can lead to financial struggles despite all your hard work.

Shrimp (specifically vannamei) and Atlantic salmon farming are typically the most profitable ventures in aquaculture, driven by high market prices and strong global demand. However, these sectors require very large initial investments and a high level of technical expertise to manage successfully.

I've worked with both small family farms and large commercial operations, and the path to profitability looks very different for each. While the high prices for shrimp and salmon are tempting, the operational complexity is a huge barrier. For many, the more reliable, if less spectacular, profits from farming carp or catfish¹⁶ are a much safer bet. The key is to match the species to your budget and expertise. I also stress that profitability isn't just about market price; it's about efficiency. Reducing loss from leaks with a quality tank or improving water management can have a massive impact on the bottom line.

The High-Stakes Game: Shrimp and Salmon

Shrimp and salmon are the high-rollers of the aquaculture world¹⁷. They command premium prices in global markets, making them incredibly lucrative. However, this profitability comes with significant risk and expense. These species are highly sensitive to water quality and disease, meaning a single outbreak can be financially devastating. Furthermore, the initial investment in facilities¹⁸—whether it's for offshore salmon cages or intensive shrimp ponds—is substantial. I've seen many entrepreneurs drawn to the high rewards, but success in this segment requires deep technical expertise and a significant capital buffer to weather the inevitable challenges.

The Steady Performers: Catfish and Carp

In contrast to the high-stakes world of salmon and shrimp, catfish and carp farming¹⁹ offer a more stable and predictable path to profitability. These species are the opposite of fragile; they are hardy, resilient, and much cheaper to raise. Their market price is lower, but so are the input costs and the risks. This makes them an ideal and accessible entry point for smaller, family-run businesses or those new to the industry. For these farmers, profitability is less about hitting a jackpot and more about operational efficiency. This is where our products, like durable and leak-proof tanks²⁰, play a crucial role by minimizing loss and maximizing the return on every cycle.

Conclusion

From carp to catfish, farmed fish are essential to feeding the world. The key to a successful future for aquaculture lies in choosing the right species and investing in reliable, efficient equipment.