Abstract

Integrated livestock and fish farming, particularly the combination of poultry and aquaculture, is a traditional practice in India and many parts of Asia. This method, known as agro-pisciculture, enhances productivity by reducing production costs and utilizing agricultural by-products efficiently. In India, where farm sizes are shrinking, many farmers adopt this mixed farming system to diversify activities and mitigate risks. Poultry farming, in particular, is widely integrated with fish farming due to its economic benefits. Poultry droppings serve as a natural fertilizer for fish ponds, fostering the growth of natural food sources, such as phytoplankton and zooplankton, which fish consume. This practice reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and feed, cutting costs by up to 60%. Moreover, it provides a sustainable solution to the challenge of feed expenses in intensive fish farming. The integration of poultry with aquaculture boosts resource efficiency, enhances labour use and generates multiple products, such as chicken meat, eggs and fish, from the same piece of land. This model promotes food security by increasing the availability of animal protein, improving rural livelihoods and supporting sustainable agriculture. Key considerations for success of this model include selecting resilient fish species and maintaining optimal pond conditions for water retention, soil pH and weed control.