source:cmfri.in
Mariculture, the farming of marine organisms, has been steadily gaining momentum in India, thanks to significant contributions from various research institutions. The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has been at the forefront of developing mariculture technologies since the 1980s. Initially, CSIR-CSMCRI and ICAR-CMFRI laid the foundation with seaweed and bivalve culture. In 2005, ICAR-CMFRI took a significant step forward by establishing India’s first open-sea floating cage in Visakhapatnam, with support from the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Fisheries. This initiative sparked rapid adoption of cage mariculture by local communities and entrepreneurs along both coasts.
source:cmfri.in
Today, a diverse range of mariculture technologies is available, enabling the cultivation of finfish like cobia, pompano, and sea bass, as well as shellfish like mussels and oysters. Additionally, advancements in mariculture include pearl production, seaweed farming, Recirculation Aquaculture Systems (RAS), Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA), and live feed production.
These technologies not only create income opportunities but also promote employment, livelihood, and empowerment, especially among coastal communities. The widespread adoption of mariculture technologies signifies a promising future for sustainable marine resource management and economic development in India
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is mariculture and why is it important in India?
Mariculture involves farming marine organisms, and it’s gaining momentum in India due to contributions from research institutions like the CMFRI. This practice is crucial for sustainable marine resource management and economic development, particularly for coastal communities.
How did mariculture evolve in India?
Mariculture in India began in the 1970s with initiatives by CSIR-CSMCRI and ICAR-CMFRI focusing on seaweed and bivalve culture. The development escalated in 2005 when ICAR-CMFRI established India’s first open-sea floating cage in Visakhapatnam, leading to widespread adoption.
What types of marine organisms can be cultivated through mariculture?
A diverse range of marine organisms can be cultivated through mariculture, including finfish such as cobia, pompano, and sea bass, as well as shellfish like mussels and oysters. Additionally, technologies for pearl production, seaweed farming, and live feed production are available.
How do mariculture technologies benefit coastal communities?
Mariculture technologies not only provide income opportunities but also generate employment, promote livelihoods, and empower local communities. This is particularly significant for coastal regions where traditional livelihoods are often vulnerable to environmental changes.
What are some innovative mariculture technologies being utilized in India?
In addition to open-sea floating cages, India is employing technologies like Recirculation Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA) for sustainable and efficient mariculture. These advancements contribute to the overall growth and success of the industry while minimizing environmental impacts.
