The process of aquaculture refers to the “breeding, rearing and harvesting” of plants and animals in all types of water environments (18). Aquaculture can be conducted in natural or man-made environments and both marine and freshwater environments. In general, the most commonly “farmed” freshwater species include trout, catfish and tilapia while marine aquaculture commonly produces oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp and salmon (18).

This review of the trends in US aquaculture, with a specific focus on the Atlantic salmon industry, outlines the potential economic, ecological and health impacts of the process and highlights the need for further research on this method of seafood production.