blue-green algae blooms, pollution, and poor product storage 

 techniques. To ensure the public of a high-quality product, 

 grading standards are needed. 



Introduction of Nonindigenous Species 



A number of successful imports of nonindigenous aquatic animals 

 into the U.S has occured in connection with aquaculture. For 

 example, culture of the imported Malaysian pravn has developed 

 rapidly in Hawaii and Guam and shows promise for expansion in other 

 warm areas of the U.S. and its territories. 



Another example has been large-scale development of the Pacific 

 oyster ( Crassostrea gigas) in the estuarine waters of Washington, 

 Oregon, California, and to a lesser extent, Alaska. 



However, uncontrolled movement of nonindigenous species from one 

 area to another can transmit exotic disease and parasites to 

 indigenous populations or cultured organisms. Introduction of the 

 new species for aquaculture could impact the environment. 



Disease organisms carried by transplanted aquatic species have 

 included viruses, bacteria, and protozoans. Examples of accidental 

 introduction of adverse species include the walking catfish, oyster 

 drills, and the water hyacinth. Nevertheless, the record shows 

 that under controlled conditions, certain species can be introduced 

 to expand and develop aquaculture. Rules for control should be 

 based on sound biological and ecological considerations. 



Inadequate Pilot-Scale Testing and Demonstration Facilities 



A deterrent to successful development of some aquaculture species 

 is the lack of pilot testing and demonstration facilities to 

 accomplish an orderly transition from laboratory research to 

 commercial production. Such facilities are one of the most 

 effective ways to transfer technology. 



Limited research projects and demonstration facilities particularly 

 hinder the commercialization of many marine species. In addition, 

 some segments of aquaculture will be hampered unless prototype 

 production systems can be tested for technical and economic 

 feasibility. 



Legal Constraints and High Start-Up Costs 



A significant amount of U.S. effort in aquaculture is still in the 

 research and early development stage. However, financial data are 

 sufficiently available on scaled-up systems to be helpful in 

 pinpointing some economic problems. 



Few laws or regulations are designed specifically to promote or 

 protect aquaculture. Many existing land-use restrictions and 

 environmental regulations reduce economic incentives to aquaculture 



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