What defines aquaculture?

Aquaculture is defined as the cultivation of aquatic organisms in controlled environments, which encompasses a variety of practices related to the farming of fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants. This practice can occur in freshwater, brackish water, or marine environments and includes techniques to enhance production and sustainability of aquatic resources. By managing the environment where aquatic species are grown, aquaculture aims to increase yields beyond what occurs in the wild, all while addressing conservation efforts and providing a reliable food source.

The other options do not accurately encapsulate the essence of aquaculture. The cultivation of plants in soil is related to agriculture, not aquaculture. Fishing in ocean waters pertains to wild capture fisheries, which is distinct from the farming aspects of aquaculture. The harvesting of wild aquatic species similarly focuses on extraction rather than cultivation, which is the central premise of aquaculture.