Cage culture development and its role in aquaculture in China

Abstract. This paper is divided into four parts. First, history: cage culture has long been practised. The origin of cage culture world-wide should be regarded as the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, China, in the Sung Dynasty. Second, characteristics of cage culture in China. Third, influence: development of open-water fisheries is actively promoted in lakes, reservoirs and rivers. More kinds of water bodies have been employed for this purpose. Marine cages have also rapidly developed. Finally, discussion and conclusions. Cage culture is a modern development of aquaculture which has changed the long-established, fish-farming structures and, to a great extent, pushed forward fisheries development in China. Cage culture is typically characterized by intensive farming, running-water culture, high yield and great efficiency. It is generally accepted that cage culture will actively play an increasingly important role in international aquaculture.