AQD is one of the four departments of SEAFDEC, a treaty organization founded in 1967 to promote fisheries development in southeast Asia. AQD was established in 1973 to conduct research, develop technologies, disseminate information, and train people in the farming of fishes, crustaceans, mollusks, and seaweeds for food, livelihood, and sustainable development. AQD's first major breakthrough was the induced spawning, fish seed production in the hatchery, and completion of the life cycle of the tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) in captivity.

Fernandez, R. A. (1999, April 5). Research breakthrough boost fisheries development in RP. The Philippine Star, p. 34.