Current knowledge of pond aquaculture is herein reviewed in 18 papers. Part I reviews the history of aquaculture development activities by U.S. Government agencies and the Peace Corps' involvement in freshwater aquaculture. Part II examines biological principles of pond culture with respect to: pond classification and dynamics; bacteria and nutrient cycling; sediment and benthos; phytoplankton and macrophytes; zooplankton; fish production; aquatic fertility (with special reference to control exerted by chemical and physical production factors); and interactions between fish and plankton. In Part III, pond production systems are analyzed as they relate to: stocking practices; fertilization and feeding practices in warm water fish ponds; water quality management; and diseases, pests, and public health considerations. Part IV reviews mathematical models pertinent to pond aquaculture systems. Major conclusions, noted in Part V, are that: much information on pond culture systems is descriptive rather than quantitative and the latter data, where available, lack standardization; the interaction of physical, chemical, and biological processes is the key technical question regarding pond productivity; due to the complexity of pond culture systems, initial research must address only those variables which appear to be most important; and mathematical models need further development. Extensive lists of literature reviewed are provided throughout.