In addition, three major types of marine aquaculture exist (European Commission, n.d.; 2012):
- Extensive brackish water aquaculture in artificial lagoons. The semi-extensive nature is characterised by introducing hatchery fry and providing additional feed.
- Intensive sea farming: Sea cages hold fish captive in a large pocket-shaped net anchored to the bottom and maintained on the surface by a rectangular or circular floating framework.
- Intensive aquaculture in tanks: Artificial shore-based tanks can be used to breed marine fish. Recirculation of the water creates a closed and controlled environment that is necessary for optimal production in hatcheries and nurseries for marine species.