Organic aquaculture has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional fish farming, offering a system that produces high-quality protein while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. While startup costs for organic systems can be higher, a three-year study published in Nature’s Scientific Reports evaluating Indian major carps suggests that organic production can deliver both strong yields and financial returns.

Researchers compared a conventional culture system with an organic culture system from 2017–2019 using ponds stocked at identical densities and feeds formulated to the same protein level. The organic system integrated vermicomposting, organically grown maize and soybeans, and earthworm-based feed inputs, creating a neat closed-loop production model.

Over the culture period, the organic system achieved higher individual fish weights and greater total production. Fish raised organically were harvested at larger average weights and demonstrated favorable growth metrics, including a lower feed conversion ratio. Economic analysis over a projected 10-year period revealed notable financial advantages for the organic system. While both systems were financially viable, the organic culture system consistently produced higher income due to greater yields and a ~30% market premium for organic fish. 

Importantly, the organic system demonstrated that productivity gains can be achieved without synthetic fertilizers, antibiotics, or chemical inputs typical in conventional aquaculture systems. By integrating fish culture with vermicomposting and organic crop production, the system also demonstrated an innovative practice in ecological cycling while maintaining economic performance. These findings suggest that organic aquaculture of Indian carps represents a scalable and economically feasible model that producers can look to as a pathway toward both environmental stewardship and long-term profitability.

Photos by Tapan Kumar Choudhury and Parth Tendulkar on Unsplash