Study Trip: Aquaculture in remote and underdeveloped coastal regions
04.10.2008
marinecultures.org’s mission is to develop sustainable aquaculture in Zanzibar. In this connection, we recently undertook a study trip to Asia and the Pacific region, where we acquired an in-depth understanding of the possibilities and limitations of aquaculture. We among other things visited enterprises for the cultivation of:
- Pearls (Vietnam, Micronesia, and Indonesia)
- Shrimp (Vietnam)
- Giant clams, fish, and mangrove crabs in Palau
- Sea cucumbers (Yap, Micronesia)
- Ornamental corals and sponges (Phonpei, Micronesia)
- Food- and ornamental fish as well as the development of artificial coral reefs with Electro Mineral Accretion (EMA) (Indonesia)
The cultivation of marine sponges is among the most promising vehicles to promote family-owned enterprises in Zanzibar: The Indian Ocean around Zanzibar is rich in marine sponges, the technical skills necessary for cultivation are easy to acquire, and it requires relatively little specialized equipment. Moreover, similar techniques have been used in Zanzibar for many years for the cultivation of seaweed. Marine sponges have many applications and the potential to generate significant revenue. Sponges are moreover light, compressible, and able to be stored in challenging climatic conditions.
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