The rapid development of the Chinese aquaculture has stimulated the development of a significant feed industry. Fishmeal imports have remained relatively static as formulations have improved and due to substantial culture of filter-feeding species. Representative species have been selected for systematic nutritional studies to determine their requirements and the efficiency of feed ingredients. These studies are being used to develop a database on nutritional requirements and bioavailability of feed ingredients to aid efficient feed formulation design.

Cambodians are among the largest consumers of fish in the world with per capita consumption of 63 kg/person/year. At present 90% of production is from freshwater systems. Low value "trash" fish from both freshwater and marine resources are used as an important feed input to the sector. Both imported pellets and on-farm feeds are of mixed quality, storage protocols inadequate and feeding strategies often wasteful. There is much scope to improve the efficiency of feed use.

Aquaculture production in Bangladesh is growing rapidly, resulting in increasing demand for feeds. In response, the government has formulated the Fishfeed and Animal Feed Act, 2010 and Fishfeed Rules, 2011, to assure the quality of feed inputs. The legislation mandates licenses for the establishment and operation of feed factories, for import/export of feeds and ingredients, and for sale of feed. Minimum minimum standards for feeds have been established and officials are empowered to test feed samples for compliance.

This publication is the major output of a regional programme jointly implemented by FAO and NACA in 2015 to document and disseminate successful practices that contribute to the sustainable intensification of aquaculture in the Asia-Pacific region. Twelve practices are described that contribute to at least one of the following: Improved production and resource use efficiency (land, water, feed, energy); improved environmental benefits; strengthened economic viability and farmers' resilience; and improved social acceptance and equity.

In this issue:

Aquaculture feed supply chain attracting scrutiny. Pond beauty contest, Ram Kumar and social development. Culture modes of giant freshwater prawn in Yangtze River Delta for early harvest. Fish marketing in Kashmir, India - a case study of Srinagar. Community-based integrated fish-duck farming: A boon for rural development in agro-climatic conditions of Assam, India. Gastropod and bivalve fishery of Kakinada Bay, Andhra Pradesh, India: Management and conservation issues.