This is the first study of social, economic and technical aspects of aquaculture in Bangladesh. The book covers three main themes. First, instead of trying to understand rural society via the different sets of actors involved in agricultural production the authors analyse rural society through the trading activities necessary in aquaculture. Second, these insights have practical implications and this book shows how it is possible to build on existing relationships and technologies and facilitate innovative poverty-focused strategies. One such initiative, the 'fry trader extension strategy' is documented. Finally, the study of the fish trading network demonstrates that a preoccupation with high technology 'quick fix' solutions in development may overlook the indigenous problem-solving strategies of local people and this book documents a particularly striking example.