Abstract:

Aims: Conflict between aquaculture development and waterbird conservation is a widespread issue globally. The expansion of aquaculture occupies waterbird habitats, particularly in coastal areas, and waterbirds feed on aquatic products, potentially increasing the risk of cross-pond disease transmission. This may lead to non-selective lethal control of waterbirds by farmers, creating a vicious cycle that threatens the survival of waterbirds and the ecosystem services they support. To address this issue, promoting the adoption of effective, non-lethal bird control strategies among farmers is essential for achieving sustainable aquaculture. This study systematically evaluates the efficacy of various bird control measures implemented in aquaculture areas. 

Methods: This study examined experimentally validated bird control measures and their associated behavioral stimuli on a global scale from 1950 to 2024. The assessment of their effectiveness was conducted using the vote-counting method. 

Results: The findings indicate that the overall efficacy of existing bird control measures was 66.7%, with composite measures (80.9%) and physical barrier measures (76.7%) being more effective, while single visual disturbance measures have relatively low effectiveness (46.9%). The efficacy of bird control strategies was shaped by various factors, and no single solution could entirely mitigate associated losses. Presently, research in this domain revealed significant imbalances in geographical focus and aquaculture species. Over 80% of documented cases originated from North America and Europe, with only 2.8% reported in Asia. Furthermore, research efforts were predominantly concentrated on fish farming, accounting for 73.1% of cases, while other aquaculture species, such as crustaceans, receive limited attention. 

Conclusion: As the leading global producer of aquaculture, China currently has only one case study examining crustacean farming scenarios. Drawing on international experience and considering its domestic context, this study emphasizes the urgent need for China to conduct effectiveness evaluation experiments in conflict-prone areas, such as coastal aquaculture ponds. Additionally, it is crucial to enhance ecological and behavioral research on waterbirds within aquaculture settings and to develop innovative bird control measures using advanced technologies. These efforts will promote the sustainable growth of aquaculture while reinforcing China’s critical role in the global network for migratory bird conservation.

Key words: aquaculture, aquaculture pond, bird control measures, effectiveness, waterbird conservation