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 ↓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.
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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.
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.
Aquaculture Development
Developing and promoting sustainable fish farming practices that improve production and strengthen the aquaculture industry.
Fish Breeding
Research into fish breeding and improved strains to support productivity, quality and sustainable fish farming.
Population Genetics
Investigating fish populations and genetic characteristics to support breeding research and fisheries management.
Fisheries Ecology
Studying fisheries and aquatic ecosystems to improve understanding of fish populations and resource sustainability.
Environmental Assessment
Assessing and monitoring the effects of development activities on aquatic environments and fish populations.
Fisheries Enhancement
Supporting improved fishery productivity through fisheries enhancement and culture based fisheries 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.
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.
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.
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.