Aquaculture is often viewed narrowly as intensive culture of salmon and shrimp to provide high value products for luxury markets and is often associated with environmental degradation. The promotion of aquaculture for rural development has had a poor record in many developing countries, especially in Africa. This paper shows that aquaculture does contribute to the livelihoods of the poor, particularly in areas of Asia where it is traditional practice, although a number of constraints prevent its expansion. Recent adoption of new technology suggests that, with adequate support, aquaculture could also contribute significantly to rural development in countries where it is neither a traditional nor widespread practice.