Source: agriculturepost.com
Mariculture, a fascinating realm within aquaculture, is making waves globally, and India is poised to ride this tide of potential. Picture this: cultivating marine plants and animals in the vast ocean or tidal waters, bolstering seafood production to meet the ever-growing demand. It’s like bringing a piece of the ocean closer to our plates!
In 2020 alone, mariculture contributed a whopping 33.1 million tonnes of food fish globally, along with 35.0 million tonnes of seaweeds. This accounted for over half of the total aquaculture production worldwide! From prized finfish to delectable crustaceans and molluscs like oysters and mussels, mariculture offers a diverse bounty.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
What’s truly remarkable is the vast untapped potential. The space needed for mariculture is a mere fraction of our vast oceans, suggesting an immense capacity for growth. For instance, the Indian region could potentially yield 8 to 16 million tonnes, yet current production barely scratches the surface at less than 0.05 million tonnes.
Embracing mariculture isn’t just about meeting seafood demand; it’s also a strategic move aligned with India’s Blue Revolution policy. By harnessing the bounty of our seas, we not only bolster food security but also stimulate economic growth and promote sustainable practices.
Imagine a future where our oceans thrive with abundance, where every tide brings forth a harvest of marine delights. With mariculture leading the charge, that future is within reach. So let’s dive in, explore the depths, and unlock the sea of opportunity that awaits us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is mariculture?
Mariculture is a specialized branch of aquaculture focused on cultivating economically important marine plants and animals in the sea or tidal waters. This includes growing finfish, crustaceans, molluscs, and seaweeds in controlled environments such as hatcheries, nurseries, and grow-out systems using seawater.
Why mariculture is gaining attention globally?
Mariculture presents a significant opportunity to meet the increasing demand for seafood while minimizing pressure on wild fishery stocks. With over half of the world’s aquaculture production coming from mariculture, its growth potential is undeniable. Moreover, the space needed for mariculture is a tiny fraction of the vast ocean, indicating ample room for expansion.
How does mariculture contribute to food production?
In 2020, mariculture contributed 33.1 million tonnes of food fish and 35.0 million tonnes of seaweeds globally, making up over half of the total aquaculture production. This diverse array of seafood, including finfish, molluscs, and crustaceans, helps meet the growing demand for protein-rich food worldwide.
What is the potential for mariculture in India?
Despite its vast coastline and marine resources, India’s current mariculture production is minimal compared to its potential. Estimates suggest that the Indian region could yield 8 to 16 million tonnes of seafood through mariculture, yet current production falls far short of this figure, highlighting significant room for growth.
How does mariculture align with India’s Blue Revolution policy?
Mariculture aligns closely with India’s Blue Revolution policy, which aims to enhance fisheries and aquaculture production for economic growth, food security, and livelihood improvement. By harnessing the bounty of the seas in a sustainable manner, mariculture supports the goals of the Blue Revolution, fostering economic development while preserving marine ecosystems.
