CSIR Water Research Institute

Aquaculture Research & Development Centre

Advancing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture through scientific research, improved fish breeding, responsible resource management and practical support for fish farmers across Ghana.

Discover ARDEC
About the Centre

Scientific research for sustainable aquaculture

The Aquaculture Research and Development Centre (ARDEC) is a specialized branch of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Water Research Institute (CSIR-WRI), located at Akosombo in Ghana’s Eastern Region.

The Centre conducts research to generate scientific knowledge and practical solutions for the sustainable management and development of Ghana’s fish, fisheries and aquaculture resources.

Through research, technology development and technical support, ARDEC contributes to improved fish production, stronger aquaculture practices and better livelihood opportunities for fishing communities and fish farmers.

Explore Fishery and Aquaculture Research
CSIR Water Research Institute
ARDEC, Akosombo Research, innovation and technical support for sustainable fish production in Ghana.
Our Mandate

Research that supports sustainable development

ARDEC's work is guided by the need to generate reliable scientific information that supports the responsible use and development of Ghana’s aquatic resources.

The Centre's mandate is to generate scientific information and promote its application in the sustainable management and development of Ghana’s fish, fisheries and aquaculture resources.

Its research covers fish farming, fish breeding, fish population genetics, aquaculture development, fisheries ecology and management. The Centre works towards increasing local fish production by improving yields from existing fisheries and advancing sustainable aquaculture and culture based fisheries practices.

Areas of Expertise

Our research specializations

ARDEC combines fisheries science, breeding research and aquaculture development to address production challenges and support the sustainable growth of Ghana’s fisheries sector.

01

Aquaculture Development

Developing and promoting sustainable fish farming practices that improve production and strengthen the aquaculture industry.

02

Fish Breeding

Research into fish breeding and improved strains to support productivity, quality and sustainable fish farming.

03

Population Genetics

Investigating fish populations and genetic characteristics to support breeding research and fisheries management.

04

Fisheries Ecology

Studying fisheries and aquatic ecosystems to improve understanding of fish populations and resource sustainability.

05

Environmental Assessment

Assessing and monitoring the effects of development activities on aquatic environments and fish populations.

06

Fisheries Enhancement

Supporting improved fishery productivity through fisheries enhancement and culture based fisheries development.

Research and Development

Our key programmes

The Centre's research and development programmes address fish production, environmental sustainability and improved management of fisheries resources.

Aquaculture Development

Improving aquaculture practices and supporting the adoption of sustainable fish farming technologies.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Examining the potential effects of socioeconomic development activities on aquatic environments and fisheries resources.

Fish Population Monitoring

Monitoring fish populations to inform fisheries management and the sustainable use of aquatic resources.

Fisheries Enhancement

Conducting research and developing approaches to improve fisheries productivity and resource management.

Culture Based Fisheries

Promoting fisheries practices that use managed fish production and stocking to support improved yields where appropriate.

Technical Support and Knowledge Transfer

Supporting commercial and community based aquaculture initiatives through technical guidance and research based information.

Our Strategic Goal

Increasing local fish production

ARDEC seeks to increase local fish production and support livelihoods by improving yields from existing fisheries and developing sustainable aquaculture and culture based fisheries practices.

Through scientific research and the transfer of practical knowledge, the Centre contributes to a more productive and sustainable fisheries sector in Ghana.

Improved Fish Production

Advancing research and farming methods that support increased and sustainable fish yields.

Support for Fish Farmers

Providing technical knowledge and support for commercial and community based aquaculture projects.

Sustainable Fisheries Management

Applying scientific evidence to improve the management and responsible use of fisheries resources.

Livelihood Development

Supporting livelihoods and contributing to the development of Ghana's aquaculture and fisheries sector.

Practical Support

Supporting fish farming in Ghana

ARDEC serves as a key centre for fish fingerling production and technical support for commercial and community based aquaculture projects. Its research and technical expertise help strengthen access to fish production inputs and promote improved aquaculture practices.

CSIR Water Research Institute

Science for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture

Learn more about our fisheries research, scientific expertise and contributions to sustainable water and aquatic resource management in Ghana.