This section contains a profile on the status of aquaculture in each of the countries visited, based on existing documentation which was verified, complemented and up-dated by the mission.
The quality of the information presented herewith is not homogeneous because of the differences existing among the countries themselves as far as size, aquaculture development, and available information are concerned.
In fact, for some of the countries, the present profile is the only specific document on the status of its aquaculture and therefore it is somewhat more detailed. On the other hand, considerable information is available for some of the other countries, gathered through surveys and studies carried out in the past both by national institutions and international organizations. The simple and complete up-dating of this information would have exceeded both the purpose and the time available to the mission.
Therefore, the profiles below only contain the summarized information, duly checked with the national institutions concerned, relevant to the scope of the mission which were basically the programming of AQUILA II activities and the identification of a regional project for Caribbean aquaculture development.
At the end of each country profile, a list of documents collected and analysed by the mission is provided which, even if not annexed to the present report, are to be considered as an integral part of it and are available at AQUILA II headquarters in Mexico City.
The content of each country profile is as follows:
General Information
Fisheries Data
Status of Aquaculture Production
Aquaculture Statistics
Policy Making, Planning and Management
Technical Capabilities
Technical Assistance and Extension
Potential for Aquaculture Development
Finance
Fish Handling, Processing and Marketing
Conclusions and Future Developments
Background Information
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I. General Information
Geography and Economy
| • Area | : | 13,935 sq.km |
| • Length of coastline | : | 3,000 km (est.) |
| • Shelf area | : | 116,550 sq.km |
| • Terrain | : | Flat |
| • Climate | : | Sub-Tropical |
| • Population | : | 255,095 (1990) |
| • Annual growth rate | : | 1.8% |
| • Languages | : | English (official) and some Creole among Haitian immigrants |
| • Work force | : | 124,320 (1988) - Majority employed in government, hotel and restaurant, and financial sectors. |
| • Unemployment rate | : | -NA- |
| • GDP | : | US$ 1,755 million (1988) |
| • GDP growth rate | : | 2% (1988) |
| • GDP per capita | : | US$ 9,000 (1991) |
| • Central Gov.nt revenue | : | US$ 581 million (1990 est.) |
| • Currency unit | : | Bahamian Dollar US$ 1.00 = B$ 1.00 (June 1992) |
| • Agriculture | : | Exports: US$ 34,4 million (1989). Products: vegetables, lobster, fish. |
| • Industry | : | Types: tourism, banking, petroleum, pharmaceuticals, rum. |
| • Trade | : | Exports: Non-oil exports US$ 1 billion (1988) - salt, aragonite, timber, beverages, chemicals. Oil exports US$ 2.3 billion (1988). Imports: US$ 1.6 billion (1988) - manufactured goods, oil, chemicals, machinery and transport equipment, food, live animals, beverages, tobacco. |
Fisheries Data
- Commodity balance (1989):
| Production | Imports | Exports | Total supply | Per caput supply | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| '000 mt live weight | kg/yr | ||||
| Fish for direct human consumption | 8.10 | 1.10 | 2.2 | 7.0 | 27.4 |
- Estimated employment (1986):
- Gross value of fisheries output: (at ex-vessel prices - 1986) US$ 28.00 million
- Trade (1986):
Species Cultured and Technologies
- Inland aquaculture
At present, tilapia is the only freshwater species cultured in The Bahamas although the total annual production remains rather low. Most of the firms that started tilapia ventures in the mid-80's have now moved towards marine shrimp farming possibly due to the more attractive returns and a larger market. With specific regard to tilapia, considerable research efforts have been channelled by a number of companies (e.g. Caribbean Marine Research Center) to develop a technology for the marine culture of this freshwater species. However, although the above mentioned firm feels that their research has demonstrated the technology and feasibility of culturing tilapia in seawater, no commercial projects have since been established.
- Coastal aquaculture
Most of the interest expressed by the private sector is on the culture of marine shrimp for
both the local and export markets. At present all of the existing commercial aquaculture
operations, employing marine organisms, are land-based. This is possibly due to the
insufficient tidal range that permits filling and drainage of ponds as well as the lime
composition of the land.
The Bahamas Marine Farms Limited, which originally developed a commercial above-ground-tank
tilapia farming venture in 1985 and then shifted to shrimp farming (Penaeus
vannamei) in 1990, is one of the private firms presently operating in the sector. The
company has also recently engaged itself in the culture of oysters (Crassostrea gigas) using
effluent waters from its shrimp operation. Although some technical difficulties have been
encountered, the firm demonstrated that the oysters performed rather well and that additional
research is required to investigate the possibility of culturing the bivalve at a larger scale.
Maritek Bahamas Limited began its shrimp (P. vannamei) and red drum (Sciaenops
ocellatus) farming venture in Long Island during 1988. Two years later the company had
established almost 50 hectares of earthen ponds. However, due to the lack of investment
capital, the operation in 1991 remained on a maintenance only programme. A third
company operating in the sector is the Aqualife Research Corporation (ARC). In March
1985, ARC opened a large marine tropical fish farm on Walker's Cay, Abaco. Although
in 1991 the company was seriously affected by water quality problems, which resulted in
below target fish production, it maintains the leading operation in the aquarium fish trade.
Several other companies operating in the sector are registered in The Bahamas which
include the Bahamas Mariculture Research Institute, Ocean Technologies Bahamas Limited
and Abaco Mariculture Co. Ltd. The latter company submitted in 1989 a proposal for the
establishment of a crawfish ranching venture at Logger Head Creek, Abaco. The proposed
project which involved the capture, confinement and maintenance of juvenile crawfish, was
approved in 1990. By 1991, the facilities were completed and stocked with approximately
2,000 juvenile specimens.
- Aquaculture technologies
The technology available to the private sector involved in commercial aquaculture operations, particularly shrimp, is rather refined considering that most operations are using the intensive method. However, applied and adaptive research is still required to improve production outputs as well as to encourage and attract additional investors into the industry. As a result of the present strong interest in the culture of marine shrimp, the Department of Fisheries with its newly constructed shrimp culture facility and with the technical assistance and expertise of the Taiwanese (Taiwan, Province of China) mission, hopes to improve the technology presently available as well as to develop and/or adapt to local condition culture technologies for other commercially interesting marine species.
Aquaculture Statistics
Reliable overall aquaculture production statistics in The Bahamas are presently not available, although some indicative production figures are available for some of the commercial operations. The Bahamas Marine Farms Ltd. in 1990, when still culturing tilapia, produced almost 36 metric tonnes of the freshwater fish, while in 1991 they marketed some 1.5 metric tonnes of head-on shrimp. The Aqualife Research Corporation in 1991 exported to the USA a total of 77,500 farmed raised Pacific clown fish and Atlantic neon gobies valued at approximately US$ 39,000. This was some 194% less than their export sales during the previous year due to the severe water problems they experienced.
III. Policy Making, Planning and Management
The Department of Fisheries (DOF), which falls under the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), is responsible for the management of the fishery industry and for the implementation of fisheries policies and developmental objectives. The Department's objectives for fisheries management are:
to ensure the optimum utilization of the fisheries resources for the benefit of the Bahamian people;
to promote the development of local fisheries; and
to improve the technical capabilities and social well-being of the local fisherman.
The Department of Fisheries is divided into four technical units (Research and Development,
Resource Management, Resource Utilization, and Law Enforcement) and one administration
unit. Presently the Department has no office dealing exclusively with aquaculture matters,
although high priority has been attached to the development of this sector of the fishery
industry. The policy of the Government of The Bahamas is not to invest directly into
aquaculture production. However, through the regulatory role of the DOF, it promotes the
development of aquaculture mainly through technical assistance and incentives (e.g. duty
free concession on imported equipment). The Department of Fisheries is headed by a
Director supported by a total staff of about 50, out of which only two have a background
in aquaculture training and field work. The above mentioned officers are responsible for
all matters related to aquaculture within the Department.
The aquaculture industry is presently not regulated, however, a draft Aquaculture Act was
prepared in 1984 with the assistance of FAO. The act was prepared at a time when
aquaculture in The Bahamas was at an early stage of development, and although it would
have provided the Government with the legal framework for controlling and directing the
development of the industry, it was not introduced as part of the overall fisheries
regulations.
IV. Technical Capabilities
Education and Training
The only higher education institute in the country is the University College of The Bahamas, where a two year programme on general biology is available. No specific programmes are available in marine biology or related aquaculture subjects. No informal education and training in aquaculture can presently be obtained through the Fisheries Department, due to the lack of research facilities of any kind. In early 1990, however, a Technical Cooperation Agreement was signed between the Government of The Bahamas and the People's Republic of China, under which a Chinese mission would set-up a pilot shrimp hatchery and grow-out operation. The facilities, constructed at the Fish Landing Complex in Potter's Cay (which was never used), are expected to be in full operation by the end of 1992. The Shrimp Project will produce post-larvae of P. vannamei (hatchery capacity: 10 million/yr) for sale to the private sector, as well as conduct applied research on various hatchery operations. The facility will also be used to conduct research on other commercially important shrimp species (e.g. Penaeus monodon) as well as a training center for technical assistance and transfer of shrimp culture technology to the private sector.
Research
Up to very recently, the Department of Fisheries was unable to assist the private sector in terms of aquaculture research to improve the performance of the industry as well as to attract additional local and foreign investors. However, the recent completion of the pilot shrimp hatchery and grow-out facility at the Fish Landing Complex in Nassau, as a result of a two year technical cooperation agreement signed between Taiwan (Province of China) and The Bahamas, will certainly enable the DOF to conduct some basic culture research on P. vannamei as well as other marine shrimp of commercial value (e.g. P. monodon). Prior to the construction of the above mentioned aquaculture centre, most of the research on commercially important aquatic organisms had been conducted by the private sector (e.g. the research carried out by the Caribbean Marine Research Center on marine culture of tilapia).
Technical Assistance and Extension
Little government support in terms of technical assistance and extension services has been provided to the private sector operating commercial aquaculture ventures. Although the Department of Fisheries has been encouraging the promotion and development of the industry in The Bahamas though attractive investment conditions (e.g. land and sea areas lease/purchase agreement, duty free importation of equipment and fish feed, etc.), the shortage of technical staff and the absence of a research/training facility made it almost impossible for the Department to provide technical support to interested parties. However, the Government hopes that the newly completed shrimp culture centre will enable the staff of the DOF to acquire technical experience, particularly in shrimp culture, so that an extension and technical assistance service can be provided to local and foreign investors.
V. Potential for Aquaculture Development
Physical Potential
With regard to its natural resources, Bahamas enjoys a number of important advantages
which favour the establishment of aquaculture operations.
The land form is generally acceptable for aquaculture since large areas of level or gently
sloping land above the water table occur in many of the islands. Factors which may
constrain pond construction are: (i) the insufficient tidal range to permit filling of ponds at
high tide and drainage at low tide, and (ii) the composition of land which is almost pure
limestone. These constraints could be overcome by using pumps to manage water supply
and by constructing lined earthen ponds, which would, however, considerably affect the
initial investment cost as well as running expenses of the ponds, respectively.
Freshwater is available in sub-surface lenses ranging from 20–40 metres in depth in the
northern Bahamas to 3–12 metres in the drier southern islands. Apart from these freshwater
lenses, no rivers and few ponds exist, therefore significantly reducing the possibility of
rearing freshwater species on a large commercial scale. Good quality seawater, on the other
hand, is available in abundance, either from the surrounding sea or from wells.
In addition to the above resources, The Bahamas is rich in bays and channels of moderate
depth (also relatively well protected from surf and storms), where floating culture structures
could be installed and maintained.
In summary, it appears that the essential natural resources for marine aquaculture are
abundant, while the potential development and expansion of freshwater aquaculture is
limited by the lack of large supplies of freshwater.
Species
An increased interest in aquaculture projects is presently being manifested by the private sector. However, most of their attention is directed to the culture of marine shrimp. On the other hand, taking into account a number of geo-physical factors which determine the possibility of commercial aquaculture activities in The Bahamas, it appears that the potential exists mainly for mariculture operations. Although research would still be required to improve the culture technology of some species (e.g. dolphin fish, pompano, grouper, snapper, sponges), the culture of other species such as Gracilaria, Eucheuma, queen conch (the latter for restocking depleted areas) and brine shrimp could be attempted as a result of favourable environmental conditions and relatively well known culture technologies applied in other countries around the world (e.g. Eucheuma culture in the Philippines).
Finance
To date the Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) has not financed any aquaculture operations, although one loan application was submitted for a project in Freeport. Although the above loan application has not yet been approved, the BDB appears to be willing to support the aquaculture industry at normal commercial rates. So far the Bank has been approached mainly for loans for fishing vessels and processing plants.
VI. Fish Handling, Processing and Marketing
Most of the products derived from aquaculture practices are presently for the local fresh market and sold mainly to restaurants (shrimp) through a very simple marketing system. However, locally produced shrimp is currently facing a marketing problem as it appears that the market is somewhat monopolized by one company that imports into the country frozen shrimps produced elsewhere in the region. With regard to processing, most of the existing plants efficiently handle and process products derived from the capture marine sector for the export markets. No plant is specifically handling aquaculture products possibly due to the small and unreliable quantities presently produced. However, should the production from aquaculture considerably increase, the present facilities might be willing to purchase the raw material for processing.
VII. Conclusions and Future Developments
Aquaculture in The Bahamas has attracted a number of investors. However, although its large areas of level land, good sources of saltwater, shallow seawater free from pollution, favourable temperature and good export market potential in the United States, it appears that the development of the sector has progressed rather slowly. The reasons which may have affected the growth of the industry may have been multiple, possibly including lack of technology, shortage of investment capital, lack of freshwater and a rich capture fishery industry. It seems that the aquaculture sector in The Bahamas, although yet to became an important industry in terms of production output and revenue, has a good developmental potential particularly with regard to mariculture operations.
Aquaculture in The Bahamas seems to be attracting the attention of both local and foreign (mainly from the USA) investors. However, although a number of environmental and socioeconomic factors would favour its development, the industry as a whole is still at an early stage of development. In order to further promote and encourage investments in the sector, the following actions should be promoted in the short term:
formulation of a national aquaculture policy and action plan;
up-grading the public sector in order to better assist the private sector with regard to information and technical assistance as well as extension services;
identification of suitable inland and coastal areas for aquaculture projects in terms of their physical characteristics and economic suitability;
promote and establish links with other countries in the region more advanced in the development of their aquaculture industry; and
promote research and information exchange on marine finfish culture utilizing land-based and marine facilities (e.g. tanks, raceways, floating and submerged netcages, etc.).
VIII. Background Information
Background notes: Bahamas - April 1990. United States Department of State. Bureau of Public Affairs, Office of Public Communication, Washington D.C. 4 pp.
FAO Fishery Country Profile: Bahamas - January 1984. FID/CP/BAH/Rev. 2. 4 pp.
Department of Fisheries 1991 Annual Report. The Resource Management Unit, Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 91 pp.
The Feasibility of Aquaculture in the Bahamas - February 1981., by J.B. Glude. An FAO report to the Fisheries Training and Development Project (FAO FI: BHA/78/001). 65 pp.
The Bahamas Aquaculture Legislation for the Commonwealth of the Bahamas - November 1984, by C.P. Idyll and B.H. Wildsmith. Fisheries Development Project (Phase II), FAO FI: DP/BHA/82/002, Report 2. 109 pp.
Bahamas Country Paper - Status of Aquaculture Development. Aquaculture Planning and Sensitization Seminar. Jamaica, 6–8 April 1987. FAO FI: TCP/RLA/6651, 144–147 pp.
The Bahamian Fishing Industry. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 8 pp. - (leaflet).
Aquaculture Potential in the Bahamas. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 3 pp. - (leaflet):
Duty Free Concessions and the Fishing Industry, 1991. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 2 pp. - (leaflet).
Notes on the conch. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 1 pp. - (leaflet).
Fees for Permits and Licences. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 1 pp. - (leaflet).
Enhancement of the sponge industry (Part I) - February 1991, by Sydney Sinclair-Sands. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 27 pp.
A guide to sponge culture (Part II) - February 1991, by Sydney Sinclair-Sands. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 33 pp.
Aquaculture demand and supply: An Economic Review - July 1985, by Sydney Sinclair-Sands. Department of Fisheries, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 13 pp.
Bahamas Development Bank: Annual Report 1990. Bay Street at Rawson Square, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. 45 pp.
Bahamas Development Bank: General Policies and Procedures. Bay Street at Rawson Square, Nassau, N.P., Bahamas. - (pamphlet).
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I. General Information
Geography and Economy
| • Area | : | 430 sq.km |
| • Length of coastline | : | 90 km (est.) |
| • Shelf area | : | 320 sq.km (est.) |
| • Terrain | : | Flat, rising to a ridge in the centre. |
| • Climate | : | Tropical |
| • Population | : | 257,082 (1990) |
| • Annual growth rate | : | 0.2% |
| • Language | : | English |
| • Work force | : | 123,800 (1989) - Agriculture/Fishing 5%, Manufacturing 11%, Financial services 3%, Government services 39%, Tourism/Trade 24%, Construction/Quarrying 13%, Transport/ Communications 5%. |
| • Unemployment rate | : | 18% (1990) |
| • GDP | : | US$ 1,548.5 million (1988) |
| • GDP growth rate | : | 3.5% (1988) |
| • GDP per capita | : | US$ 5,750 (1990) |
| • Central Gov.nt budget | : | -NA- |
| • Currency unit | : | Barbados Dollar US$ 1.00 = BD$ 2.00 (May 1992) |
| • Agriculture | : | 6.4% of GDP (1988). Products: sugarcane, food crops. |
| • Industry | : | 9% of GDP (1988). Types: food, beverages, textiles, paper, chemicals, fabricated products. |
| • Trade | : | Exports: US$ 174.5 million (1988) - sugar and sugarcane by-products, clothing, cement, electronic components. Imports: US$ 582 million (1988) - food, machinery, manufactured articles, chemicals. |
Fisheries Data
- Commodity balance (1989):
| Production | Imports | Exports | Total supply | Per caput supply | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| '000 mt live weight | kg/yr | ||||
| Fish for direct human consumption | 2.60 | 1.7 | 0.10 | 4.20 | 16.3 |
- Estimated employment (1983):
- Gross value of fisheries output: (at ex-vessel prices - 1983) US$ 7.0 million
- Trade (1983):
II. Status of Aquaculture Production
Species Cultured and Technologies
- Inland aquaculture
Freshwater culture of a local strain of Oreochromis mossambicus is presently being carried
out by few individuals using small concrete tanks either fed by a continuous flow of
pumped freshwater or small streams (the water is eventually re-cycled for irrigation).
Presently, few hundred square metres of tank surface are under production using rudimental
techniques. The production from these facilities which amounts to a few tenths of
kilogrammes is usually partly consumed by the farmer household and partly sold to the
neighbours at US$ 2 a pound.
The Greenland experimental fish farm which was set-up in the early 80's by the Fisheries
Division with support from USAID, to rear the Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, and
eventually assist interested farmers to start their own operation, never succeeded. The major
problems that led to the closure of the project in 1989 were the inadequate water supply,
frequent fish thefts and a generally poor commitment to the management of the project.
Although the interest from both public and private sectors exists with regard to the
development of the industry, it is reasonable to conclude that inland aquaculture is presently
non-existent.
- Coastal aquaculture
At present no coastal aquaculture activities are being undertaken in the country, although a certain degree of interest has been expressed by a number of individuals in culturing seamoss (Gracilaria spp.) in St. Martin Bay. Experimental cultivation of the seamoss was initially started by the Fisheries Division (FD) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (MAFF) in 1989. A local strain of the seamoss was cultured using floating rafts placed in the vicinity of the Bellairs Institute, a branch of McGill University, Canada. Unfortunately, all rafts were eventually stolen. However, preliminary results indicated that the seaweed grows well under the prevailing conditions on the west coast of the island. With regard to marine fish, the private sector recently showed a general interest in the possibility of rearing suitable species in order to provide fresh fish to the tourism industry during July-October when the output of capture fishery is low.
- Aquaculture technologies
At present the technology in use for culturing tilapia in the few active concrete tanks is basic and crude. With regard to the culture of seamoss it appears that the raft system is unsuitable mainly because of the relatively high capital investment as well as the absence of protected sites. Therefore, some interest has been expressed in trying the culture of the seaweed using a long-line system in a community approach. Unfortunately, the community approach, which is successfully practiced in the nearby island of St. Lucia, seems to have some difficulties mainly due to the poorly defined fishing communities along the country's coastline. Due to the absence of commercial operation of any kind and scale, applied aquaculture technology within the country is virtually absent. The only existing personnel within the country with some experience in applied aquaculture are presently the few persons working at the University of West Indies, and one marine biologist at the Fisheries Division. The lack of technological know-how and personnel which could provide the necessary technical assistance to future and potentially interested producers, are major constraints on the growth of the aquaculture sector in Barbados.
Aquaculture Statistics
Production from coastal and inland aquaculture has not produced significant results as a complimentary source of the product in order to satisfy the great demand for fish within the island. Present inland activities result in the production of a couple of hundred kilogrammes of red tilapia.
III. Policy Making, Planning and Management
The Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, established in
1944, is the official agency responsible for the management and development of the fishery
sector, including aquaculture. The division is headed by a Chief Fisheries Officer who
reports directly to the Permanent Secretary of MAFF.
Within the Division, there is one marine biologist and a fisheries assistant responsible for
the execution of the aquaculture programme. However, no activities have been carried out
in this sector since the closure of the Aquaculture Pilot Project at Greenland.
The activities of the Fisheries Division are principally directed to the assistance and
development of the capture fisheries even though within their work programme there's a
component on aquaculture. Little priority is given to the development of aquaculture not
only due to budgetary constraints, but also due to the realization that local resources in
terms of land and water are major limiting factors. A FAO Technical Cooperation Project
(TCP/BAR/9151) was carried out in 1991 aimed at assessing the feasibility of aquaculture
development in Barbados and although recommendations and developmental guidelines were
given no apparent follow-up was stimulated.
Recently, the Barbados Aquaculture Association (BAA) was founded under the umbrella of
the larger Barbados Agriculture Society (BAS). In spite of the absence of a significant
production output, the BAA aims to become a focal point for public and private interest in
the aquaculture sector development. At present the BAA's only activity is to gather
technical information, as its main role is yet to be defined.
IV. Technical Capabilities
Education and Training
The main institute dealing with education in aquaculture in Barbados is the University of
West Indies (UWI), Campus of Cave Hill, although present activities are rather confined due
to the small size of the Department of Biology. Within the University, the Centre for
Resources Management and Environmental Studies (CERMES), is responsible for the
functioning of the recently completed Research Aquaculture Centre, funded by the European
Community. The building, which includes facilities for training, research and experimental
production trial (no grow-out facilities are available), further needs research and culture
equipment for it to become fully operational. At present, the only research activity at the
Centre, funded by the EEC, is being carried out by a former Ph.D. student, on various
aspects of tilapia larval production and rearing. The UWI also collaborated in the
development of the Greenland Pilot Project and could offer a valuable support to the
development of future aquaculture activities through applied research programmes, if funds
became available.
The Caribbean Conservation Association (CCA) with its headquarters in Barbados, has an
education programme mainly aimed at formulating and implementing solutions to
environmental problems. The Association also provides advisory and consultancy services
on matters related to natural resource development as well as in implementing natural
resources management projects.
Research
The Fisheries Division's only existing structure where some applied research could be
carried out is the Greenland Station (0.63 acres of ponds and a hatchery). Unfortunately,
the station at the present moment remains inactive due to its unsolved problems, such as
water scarcity, poor soil quality and frequent fish thefts, as well as the absence of research
and culture equipment in the hatchery.
Elsewhere, Government facilities and equipment are available for research and technical
assistance to the industry as a whole. The Government's Water Analysis Laboratory is well
equipped and its staff could assist in water and soil analysis.
The other institution in which applied aquaculture research could be carried out is the
Research Aquaculture Centre of the University of West Indies. The Centre which is now
poorly equipped, is structured in a way that applied research and training activities could
be carried out. The Bellairs Institute, located near Holetown, despite having no previous
involvement in aquaculture studies, could also participate in future aquaculture research
programmes.
Technical Assistance and Extension
Technical assistance and extension services provided by the Fisheries Division to the few farmers rearing tilapia in concrete tanks is presently sporadic and occasional. The Fisheries Division presently has one marine biologist who participated in a one-month training course in tilapia rearing in Jamaica, and one fisheries assistant who had a one-week practical course on seamoss cultivation in St. Lucia. Some technical assistance could have been provided through the Greenland Station facility if it had been in operation. Presently, some technical support has been provided to the few farmers through the one university researcher at the Research Aquaculture Centre and one masters student researching on tilapia integration in rural areas.
V. Potential for Aquaculture Development
Physical Potential
The development of aquaculture in Barbados would certainly be aided by the favourable
tropical condition which include a high temperature and salinity stability all year round.
However, other factors severely limit these developmental possibilities.
With regard to the land, it has been shown that the limited supply of both freshwater and
suitable soil type are major constraints to the development of fish farming in Barbados at
a significant scale. The permeable nature of coral rock, which forms 86% of the island,
causes the almost complete lack of surface run-off, especially during the dry season.
Surface waters are therefore to be considered as a main constraint on inland aquaculture
development. Nevertheless, in accordance to the Barbados Water Authority, ground water
is sufficiently abundant and could be pumped to the surface for fish rearing. Presently, a
great number of private wells exist on the island for agriculture irrigation, and the
association of agriculture and aquaculture activities could offer a more rational use of the
pumped water. The coral soil type found over most of the island is undoubtedly a factor
limiting the development of inland aquaculture activities. Throughout the country, two
main areas with appropriate soil characteristics have been identified, i.e. in Scotland District
and in St. George Valley, in the north and southern parts of the country, respectively. The
two areas have various patches of clay, silt-clay and sand-clay layers, variable, however, in
depth and soil plasticity and permeability.
With regard to the coastline, various sides of the islands have specific and predominant
characteristics. The east coast is widely exposed to the predominant winds (north-east) and
the coral reef in only few places is large and high enough to limit the destructive wave
effect. The east coast is also characterized by a high degree of urbanization in the southern
part, by coral cliffs in the centre portion with only a few small bays and in the northern
portion by two relatively large flat recesses. This latter area is characterized by a very
exposed coast with a beach of unstable sand dunes, in addition to the fact that the five metre
deep water area is located about 500–700 metres off-shore, beyond the coral reef. The
northern coast has a steep profile and extremely exposed to strong winds and currents. The
west and south coasts, despite being the most protected areas and potentially the most
suitable ones, are highly urbanized and cater mainly for the important tourism industry.
Species
Such unfavourable geographical conditions seriously limit the type of aquaculture and the
species that can be reared. The commercial culture of marine finfish and shrimp on a largescale
are unlikely to develop due to the absence of suitable physical resources (land space,
lagoons, protected bays). The development of submergible marine netcages could be the
only alternative although it would be extremely costly and technically demanding due to the
exposure of the coastline and narrowness of the continental shelf.
Taking into account the physical factors which greatly determine the possibility of
commercial aquaculture development in Barbados, the limited potential exists for the
following types of culture:
bivalve culture along the south and west coast;
rearing of juvenile queen conch (Strombus gigas) for reseeding of shallow water areas;
seamoss (Gracilaria spp.) cultivation using long-lines;
culture of indigenous ornamental fish species;
culture of the Asian freshwater prawn in land-based concrete tanks; and
culture of tilapia in land-based concrete tanks.
Finance
National financing institutions have so far never received credit requests for the
development of aquaculture projects. Credit could be certainly obtained from the Barbados
Development Bank (BDB), which finances industrial development, while the Barbados
National Bank (BNB), which supports agriculture development, would be the most
appropriate source for funding of freshwater aquaculture projects.
Due to the present economic restrictions, no grants or soft-loan credits are accorded to
agricultural and zootechnical projects. The average annual interest on loans ranges between
7–10%.
VI. Fish Handling, Processing and Marketing
It has been estimated that more than 50% of the landed capture fisheries catch is officially marketed in the two terminals of Bridgetown and Ostin Town. In addition to these two major landing facilities, there are also some twenty-five small landing points around the island. However, the traditional secondary market still remains important as a large part of the total catch is sold fresh to the consumer directly from the vessels, as well as to local hotels and restaurants by small vendors through a relatively simple marketing system. No handling nor processing facilities would presently be required to handle the very limited tilapia production. However, with regard to the marketing of the above mentioned species, an interesting investigation is presently being carried out by the Centre for Resources Management and Environmental Studies of UWI, with regard to its market acceptability.
VII. Conclusions and Future Developments
Due to the large deficit of fisheries products on the island, aquaculture products would have generally favourable market conditions, although the acceptability of some of the cultured species (e.g. tilapia) should be investigated prior to any substantial investment. Nonetheless, aquaculture development in Barbados is seriously constrained by the following factors:
limited availability of physical resources (i.e. land, water, suitable coastal areas) for both freshwater aquaculture and mariculture operations;
lack of technical capability necessary to ensure an adequate promotion action; and
the level of development of other economic sectors (i.e. tourism and services) which offer more attractive alternatives to the potential investor.
Considering the past actions carried out by MAFF, assisted by the identification mission carried out by FAO's TCP/BAR/9151 project, the short and medium term priorities seem to be the following:
institutional strengthening in order to ensure that the Fisheries Department is capable of proper communication and dialogue with neighbouring countries and external technical cooperation agencies/donors and prospective local and foreign investors;
implementation of specifically identified pilot aquaculture project, in order to validate and adopt if and where necessary the technologies available, as well as demonstrate their economic suitability;
support to the existing research institution and facilities in order to improve overall technical capabilities and research output; and
detailed identification of areas suitable for land-based and coastal aquaculture operation with regard to their physical and economic suitability.
VIII. Background Information
Background notes: Barbados-May 1990. United States Department of State. Bureau of Public Affairs, Office of Public Communication, Washington D.C. 5 pp.
FAO Fishery Country Profile: Barbados - November 1984. FID/CP/BAR/Rev. 3. 4 pp.
FAO Barbados feasibility study on aquaculture and Aquaculture development pilot project design - November 1991. TCP/BAR/9151 by A. Freddi. 18 pp.
The fishing industry of Barbados - 1989. Barbados Government Printing Department. 20 pp.
A guide for businessmen and investors - November 1988. Coopers and Lybran - Barbados. 57 pp.
The University of West Indies (UWI) - (pamphlet).
Barbados Development Bank (BDB) - (pamphlet).
Caribbean Conservation Association (CCA) - A framework for action - (pamphlet).
 |  |
I. General Information
Geography and Economy
| • Area | : | 22,965 sq.km |
| • Length of coastline | : | 280 km |
| • Shelf area | : | 9,800 sq.km |
| • Terrain | : | Flat and swampy coastline, and low mountains in interior. |
| • Climate | : | Tropical (hot and humid). |
| • Population | : | 203,000 (1988 est.) |
| • Annual growth rate | : | 8% (due to high immigration rate). |
| • Languages | : | English (official), Spanish, Mayan |
| • Work force | : | 58,000 (1990) - Agriculture 30%, Industry and Commerce 27%, Services 25%, Government 16%, Other 2%. |
| • Unemployment rate | : | -NA- |
| • GDP | : | US$ 247 million (1988) |
| • GDP growth rate | : | 7.6% (1988) |
| • GDP per capita | : | US$ 1,220 (1988) |
| • Central Gov.nt budget | : | US$ 117 million (1989–90) |
| • Currency unit | : | Belize Dollar US$ 1.00 = BZ$ 2.00 (June 1992) |
| • Agriculture | : | 19% of GDP (1990). Products: sugar, citrus fruits and juices, bananas, mangoes, papayas, honey, corn, beans, rice, cattle, and winter vegetables. |
| • Industry | : | 15% of GDP (1990). Types: clothing and beverages. |
| • Trade | : | Exports: US$ 100 million (1989 est.) - sugar, clothing, citrus concentrate, lobster, fish and bananas. Imports: US$ 148.5 million (1989) - food, consumer goods, building materials, vehicles, machinery, petroleum products. |
Fisheries Data
- Commodity balance (1989):
| Production | Imports | Exports | Total supply | Per caput supply | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| '000 mt live weight | kg/yr | ||||
| Fish for direct human consumption | 1.2 | 0.2 | 0.7 | 0.7 | 3.4 |
- Estimated employment (1985):
- Gross value of fisheries output (at ex-vessel prices - 1985): US$ 5.7 million
- Trade (1985):
II. Status of Aquaculture Production
Species Cultured and Technologies
- Inland aquaculture
The only freshwater aquaculture activity operating at the present moment deals with the production of ornamental fish. The Black Orchid Ornamental Co. Ltd. was established in late 1987. The aquarium fish reared at that time were African Rift Lake ciclids of six genera, which were exported to Florida. The above operation has been sustained over time and expanded its production ponds from 33 to a total of 72 in early 1991. The operation has expanded to 66 species of 20 genera, and although continues to be based mainly on the African ciclids, Central and South American species are also being cultured.
- Coastal aquaculture
Investment in aquaculture activities in Belize has been predominantly in marine shrimp. By
far the most widely cultured species has been Penaeus vannamei, although Penaeus
monodon, Penaeus stylirostris and Penaeus schmitti have also being utilized. However,
since 1990, P. vannamei has been the only species cultured in the country, mainly due to
its marketability, better knowledge of the culture techniques and biological requirements,
and longer experience in the culture history of this species in the region.
Out of the five shrimp farms which were in full operation in 1989, only three are presently
functioning. These are (1) NOVA Companies Belize Ltd., (2) Laguna Madre Belize Shrimp
Farms Ltd., and (3) Agua-Mar Belize Ltd.
- Aquaculture technologies
The present technology utilized by the private sector in marine shrimp culture, particularly
on the on-growing phase, is of a relatively high standard, mainly due to the presence of
skilled farm personnel with extended practical field experience in the country. The
technology may be, however, slightly lacking in the hatchery operations, particularly in
broodstock management, maturation and spawning.
The NOVA operation is the largest and the most successful shrimp activity in the country.
Currently the enterprise has approximately 220 hectares of ponds, a hatchery (which is
almost completed) and a processing plant. The above mentioned hatchery will likely be
operational by January 1993, and will have a maximum capacity of 4 million PL's/month.
No maturation facility is being contemplated at the present time and the operation will be
based on imported P. vannamei nauplii which will be raised to post-larvae prior to their
transfer to the ponds for on-growing. The Laguna Madre company is the second largest
operation with approximately 20 hectares, a small hatchery and a processing plant. The
third firm (Agua-Mar Belize Ltd.) producing marine shrimp is a relatively smaller operation
with a total pond area in 1991 of about 5 hectares.
Because of the husbandry success and expansion of the two large operations, the interest
in marine shrimp culture is once more gaining momentum.
The technology for rearing the queen conch (Strombus gigas) juveniles has also been rather
well developed, with the assistance and cooperation of other institutions and countries in the
region (University of Puerto Rico, Centro de Investigaciones de Quintana Roo in Mexico,
and the Turks and Caicos Islands).
Aquaculture Statistics
The total production of marine shrimp in 1991 was estimated at approximately 450 mt harvested from about 215 hectares of ponds which were in full operation. The export of ornamental fish in 1990, which amounted to 180 boxes (as reported by the Fisheries Department), decreased compared to the previous year export (320 boxes) as a result of a greater concentration of the company resources to other activities such as citrus nursery and ornamental plants.
III. Policy Marking, Planning and Management
Matters related to the development of the aquaculture industry as a whole, are dealt with
mainly by three Government agencies, i.e. (i) Department of Lands, (ii) Office of Economic
Development and (iii) Fisheries Department (FD) of the Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries (MAF).
The Department of Lands is responsible for land and sea-floor tenure, and through the
“Alien Land Housing Act” allows land tenure by foreign investors.
The Office of Economic Development deals with all affairs related to fiscal incentives. As
indicated in the Government 1990–94 Macro-Economic Plan, mariculture and freshwater
culture are considered as economic developmental priorities and are therefore subjected to
a series of fiscal incentives. The incentives range from tax holidays on corporate profits to
guaranteed repatriation of initial investment, profit and capital gains in the case of foreign
investment. Other incentives include tax exemption on import duties for capital equipment
and inputs on material used for producing export products as well as exemption on the
export tax on seafood (5%).
The Fisheries Department is the main agency responsible for policy making and strategy
implementation, to ensure the development of a viable aquaculture industry. The mandate
of the FD is also to undertake applied research as well as to carry out commercial scale
operations for the benefit of the industry. Other responsibilities include the collection of
statistics, technical assistance and extension service, issuance of permits and evaluation of
technical feasibility of aquaculture projects.
The FD is headed by a Fisheries Administrator, who reports directly to the Permanent
Secretary of MAF, and is supported by a Senior Fisheries Officer. In addition to the above,
the FD has three Fisheries Officers responsible for research, aquaculture and quality control.
A total of three officers are presently employed in the Aquaculture Unit.
At present, Belize does not have any comprehensive aquaculture specific regulations,
although in the Fisheries Act there is a draft legislation, currently under review, regarding
the importation of fish and shrimp post-larvae and broodstock for aquaculture projects.
IV. Technical Capabilities
Education and Training
Two academic institutions exist in Belize where education on general biology can be received. At the University College of Belize (UCB) and at the Belize Technical College (BTC) a degree and a diploma in general biology can be obtained, respectively. The UCB is currently planning to establish a course on marine biology with references to aquaculture.
Research
The research facilities for applied aquaculture available to the public sector are very limited,
and are basically limited to a small queen conch (S. gigas) hatchery, which was funded by
USAID in the early 80's. The project originally aimed to test the feasibility and technical
viability in rearing conch larvae and juveniles. The present objective of the project, which
has been taken over by the Fisheries Department, is to assess the dispersal rate and survival
of conch released into the wild. Although the facility is still operational it is unlikely that
it can be utilized for training and education of farmers interested in culturing other species
such as marine shrimp.
In October 1990 a technical cooperation agreement was signed between the Government of
Belize and the Government of the People's Republic of China (Province of Taiwan) to
undertake activities in agriculture research and shrimp culture. To date, a site of
approximately 10 hectares has been selected and initial preparations have been carried out
for the construction of a hatchery (capacity of 5 million PLs/yr) and ponds. Once
completed this facility will be used by the Fisheries Department to carry out research and
training.
Technical Assistance and Extension
Technical assistance and extension services provided by the Fisheries Department to the few farmers is presently at a low level, as the existing operations, particularly shrimp farming, have their own skilled technical personnel. Although the Fisheries Department employs two fisheries officers with formal training and experience in aquaculture, it is generally felt that further training to some of its other staff is required to improve its capabilities of in-house consultation and extension. Once the Belize/Chinese shrimp experimental station is completed, it is hoped that farmers, interested in small and medium-scale shrimp operations, will receive the necessary and required technical assistance through the facility and from the two Taiwanese experts which will be assigned to the project. It is also hoped that some of the technical staff of the Department will acquire further knowledge to assist the private sector through a more efficient extension service.
V. Potential for Aquaculture Development
Physical Potential
The northern half of the country is predominantly flat, gradually rising to a height of 800
metres in the south and west. A large portion of the coast consists of wetlands, mainly
mangrove swamps which approximately account for 11% of the total land territory. Open
savannah and grasslands account for 10%, while the rest of the territory is covered by
woodland forest (5%) and broadleaf forest (74%).
In terms of land and water (both fresh and marine) resources, Belize has relatively good
potentials for aquaculture development and therefore are not limiting factors for the medium
term. Further, the semi-tropical conditions would allow for year-round culture activities.
With regard to the identification of suitable aquaculture sites throughout the country, the
Fisheries Department feels that more effort in soil classification is required in addition to
the works carried out in 1958 and in 1986. The new survey should aim at identifying sites
by collecting information relevant to needs of aquaculture development.
In addition to the above resources, Belize also has other advantages which would certainly
favor the development of the industry. Some of these are: (i) geographical location (only
few hours flight from major southern USA cities), (ii) availability of labour (high literacy
rate - 92%, therefore easy training of semi- and low-skilled labourers), and (iii) expanding
infrastructure and services.
Species
Considering the available resources of the country, particularly the availability of land and
water, the potential exists for further expansion of the species under present cultivation, as
well as the introduction of other finfish and shell-fish presently not cultured in the country.
The activity more likely to expand in the short-term is the culture of P. vannamei in coastal
ponds, as well as other shrimp species of the same genus.
With regard to the culture of other species, there is the possibility of using a number of
species which have been tested regionally. The Fisheries Department has expressed an
interest in future projects on (i) tilapia, (ii) channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), (iii)
colossoma or pacu (Colossoma mitrei and Colossoma macropomum), (iv) and the red drum
(Sciaenops ocellatus). Other locally occurring species that have culture potentials are the
(i) bay snook (Petenia splendida), (ii) blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus), (iii) Nassau grouper
(Epinephelus striatus), and the (iv) queen conch (S. gigas). Various methods of culture
techniques could be employed or developed, such as land-based impoundments and lagoon
and marine netcages.
Although interest has been voiced in culturing a number of potential species, it is generally
felt that the culture of both freshwater species and marine finfish will unlikely develop in
the near future due to low domestic market demand (freshwater species), technical
difficulties (marine finfish) and more attractive alternatives (e.g. shrimp farming).
Finance
Most of the commercial aquaculture operations with foreign ownership or partnership have
received investment funds from American lending institutions. However, two of the present
large shrimp culture operations have received significant financing from local commercial
banks. In addition to these commercial institution, the Development Finances Corporation
(DFC), a quasi-government lending institution, has also been recently approached by
entrepreneurs interested in seeking loans for aquaculture projects.
At present there is also a Government of Belize/World Bank Loan Programme where a little
over US$ 1 million is to be made available to assist the establishment of small start-up
operations. The DFC will be responsible for the administration of the credit component of
the programme. The programme also includes the services of an expatriate consultant in
order to strengthen the extension competence of the Fisheries Department in shrimp culture,
site selection, pond construction and management and other related technical matters.
VI. Fish Handling, Processing and Marketing
When shrimp farms started producing in the early mid-80's, most of the processing was carried outside of the country, mainly because the existing capture fishery processing houses were unable to consistently process and store the quantities of harvested shrimp. Presently, all cultured shrimp are processed locally, mainly in the two processing plants established and operated by Laguna Madre Ltd. and NOVA Companies Ltd. The modernly equipped facilities are producing head-off and whole shrimp which meet export market quality requirements. Frozen shrimp are mostly exported to the USA and some European countries. The NOVA processing plant, which is now fully operational, has a total floor space of approximately 3,000 square metres, a blast freezer (freezing capacity of 4,500 kg/shift), and a cold storage capacity of 30,000 kg. The surplus capacity of the firm's processing facility is extended to the production of other existing plants and other farms which are likely to come on stream in the not too distant future.
VII. Conclusions and Future Developments
It appears that aquaculture development in Belize has great potential, mainly for export,
particularly with regard to the availability of natural resources such as land and water. The
country's interest in developing the industry is also clearly reflected in the 1990–94 Macro-Economic
Plan where aquaculture as a whole, particularly shrimp farming, is included as
a priority developmental activity (was also incorporate in the antecedent 1984–89 economic
plan). Belize is one of the countries in the region that qualifies for duty free trade
preference into CARICOM and the EEC. The Government, through the Fisheries
Department and the Office of Economic Development, is attuned to the dynamics of the
industry and positively pursues an attitude of exploring appropriate fiscal incentives to
maintain Belize in a competitive position.
With specific regard to the technologies for rearing other commercial species, which have
developmental potential in the country, these are still not that readily available locally. The
need of technology transfer and training with respect to this area is essential and the main
prerequisite, if any, of these species is to be cultured on a commercial scale.
In summary, Belize is developing its shrimp culture industry with a relatively sound
technical knowledge. However, if the aquaculture industry as a whole is to diversify into
other commercial species, strong emphasis will have to be placed on the transfer of
technologies.
In order to further support and strengthen the developing aquaculture industry, the following actions should be promoted as near future priorities:
strengthening of the present national aquaculture policy and action plan;
up-grading of the public sector in order to better acquire the capacity to assist the private sector with regard to both technical assistance and extension services; and
identification of suitable areas for inland and coastal aquaculture operations on a national scale, aimed at attracting both local and foreign investments.
VIII. Background Information
Background notes: Belize - May 1990. United States Department of State. Bureau of Public Affairs. Office of Public Communication, Washington D.C. 4 pp.
FAO Fishery Country Profile: Belize - January 1986. FID/CP/BEZ/Rev.2. 5 pp.
An Update on the Status of Aquaculture in Belize - July 1991, by George Myvett. Fisheries Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Belize. 25 pp.
Government of Belize 1990–1994 Development Plan. Ministry of Economic Development, Belmopan, Belize. 84 pp.
Belize Investment Code. Ministry of Economic Development, Belmopan, Belize. 18 pp. - (pamphlet).
Belize Fiscal Incentives Act No. 6/1990. Ministry of Economic Development, Belmopan, Belize. 25–35 pp.
 |  |
I. General Information
Geography and Economy
| • Area | : | 754 sq.km |
| • Length of coastline | : | 152.93 km |
| • Shelf area | : | 716.45 sq.km |
| • Terrain | : | Mountainous volcanic island with rain forest cover |
| • Climate | : | Tropical |
| • Population | : | 81,200 (1988 est.) |
| • Annual growth rate | : | 0.3% |
| • Languages | : | English (official); French patois is widely spoken |
| • Work force | : | 43,000 (1988) - Agriculture 37%, Services 30%, Industry and Commerce 20% |
| • Unemployment rate | : | 10% (1988) |
| • GDP | : | US$ 114 million (1988) |
| • GDP growth rate | : | 5.6% (1988) |
| • GDP per capita | : | US$ 1,650 (1988) |
| • Central Gov.nt budget | : | US$ 40 million (1988) |
| • Currency unit | : | Eastern Caribbean Dollar US$ 1.00 = EC$ 2.67 (May 1992) |
| • Agriculture | : | Products: bananas, citrus, coconuts, cocoa, essential oils. |
| • Industry | : | Types: agricultural processing, soap and other coconut-based products, apparel, cigars. |
| • Trade | : | Exports: US$ 55.5 million (1988) - bananas, citrus fruits, soap, cocoa. Imports: US$ 87.5 million (1988) - machinery and equipment, foodstuff, manufactured articles, cement. |
Fisheries Data
- Commodity balance (1989):
| Production | Imports | Exports | Total supply | Per caput supply | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| '000 mt live weight | kg/yr | ||||
| Fish for direct human consumption | 0.70 | 0.40 | 0.00 | 1.10 | 13.5 |
- Estimated employment (1983):
- Gross value of fisheries output (at ex-vessel prices - 1983): US$ 1.94 million
- Trade (1983):
II. Status of Aquaculture Production
Species Cultured and Technologies
- Inland aquaculture
The freshwater species cultured in Dominica are tilapia (local hybrid between Oreochromis
niloticus and Oreochromis mossambicus) and the Asian freshwater giant prawn,
Macrobrachium rosenbergii. With regard to the existing level of operations, the freshwater
prawn is the main species of interest. Although the culture of tilapia was initiated in the
country long before the introduction of the Asian prawn, it never really developed to any
significant level. The main reason for the poor success of the tilapia can be possibly
attributed to the relatively poor market acceptance of the species.
A third freshwater species which received particular attention in the mid 80's was the
Australian maroon freshwater lobster, Cherax tenuimanus. The project, which was funded
by USAID and executed by a private firm (Traverse Group Inc.), consisted exclusively of
six earth ponds totalling approximately 1.5 hectares, located in the vicinity of Canefield
river. Initially the lobster juveniles were imported from Australia via the USA, with the
expectation that they would have grown much faster and larger in the tropical climate and
constant water temperature of the country. Unfortunately, however, there was no follow-up
after the pilot stage of the project due to a number of technical problems. The Canefield
facility is presently being used to rear the freshwater prawn.
All of the freshwater prawn post-larvae are produced at the Government-owned Prawn
Experimental Farm in Belfast. The infrastructure of the station was completed in 1984 and
the first stock of post-larvae was obtained from Guadeloupe and introduced into the growout
ponds in late 1985. Two years later the facility was further expanded to include a clear
water hatchery system set-up with funds and technical assistance of the Chinese Government
through the Taiwanese Agriculture Cooperation Mission.
- Coastal aquaculture
Due to the topography of the country, with its steep coastline, limited sites are available for
coastal aquaculture. At the present moment, the indigenous population of seamoss
(Gracilaria sp.), which is found throughout the island, is popularly harvested for human
consumption as a drink or in a jelly form. However, due to over-exploitation of the natural
stocks, the Fisheries Division has included in its National Fishery Sector Plan for the period
1992–93, the initiative of culturing the seaweed utilizing the technology developed in St.
Lucia, i.e. bamboo rafts and/or long-line culture method.
The only other two seafarming activities planned for the near future are the revitalization
of the tilapia programme by culturing the fish in the marine environment and to manage the
wild oyster stocks and attempt their culture. With regard to the former planned activity, the
main aim is to attempt to improve the texture and taste of the tilapia and hence produce a
more consumable and acceptable product.
- Aquaculture technologies
With regard to the Asian freshwater giant prawn, the Fisheries Division feels that the
available technology ranks to acceptable world standards, particularly when considering the
level of post-larvae survival. However, the refinement of the on-growing technology is
presently affected by the lack of facilities and technical experience, particularly in the field
of nutrition.
The technology for culturing tilapia in the few existing earth ponds is relatively basic and
rudimental.
Aquaculture Statistics
Reliable production statistics are not available. Bearing in mind the present number and size of the operations, a combined output estimate of the two species can be placed in the range of a couple of thousand kilogrammes. No accurate data is also available for seamoss collected from the wild stocks.
III. Policy Making, Planning and Management
The Fisheries Division (FD) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and Forestry
(MALFF) is the government office responsible for aquaculture policy making and for the
coordination of all planning and growth efforts in this sector of the fisheries industry. The
main objectives of the FD concerning aquaculture development are: (i) to complement the
supply from the marine capture fishery and therefore increase protein intake, (ii) to reduce
expense of foreign exchange by cutting down in fish imports, (iii) to create employment,
(vi) to promote agriculture diversification by making use of marginal agriculture land and
resources, (v) to promote conservation of natural resources (wild and indigenous stocks),
and (vi) to increase overall socio-economic status of the people. The FD is made up of five
units including the Aquaculture Unit. The overall number of people from the public sector
directly linked with aquaculture are eight, including one aquaculturist, presently being
trained in Taiwan (Province of China), and one Taiwanese expert supported by the Chinese
agriculture cooperation mission. The entire personnel of the Division presently amounts to
ten permanent staff assisted by probably the same number of support staff. The Fisheries
Division has submitted to MALFF a plan for the expansion of its human resources which
would lead to a total professional staff of about 23 within the next five years.
The aquaculture activities of the public sector are included in a five year Ministry of
Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and Forestry Sector Plan, supported by a biannual work plan.
In addition to the ordinary legislation related to land tenure, sanitary regulation, etc., the
only specific reference to aquaculture is made in the Fisheries Act No. 11/1987 which sets
the general framework and development of aquatic resources. Within the Fisheries Act,
supported by a series of regulation and by-laws, the only reference made to aquaculture
refers to the leasing of seabed areas to people interested in aquaculture development. The
Act is also complemented by a series of laws issued by other ministries, such as the
Ministry of Health.
IV. Technical Capabilities
Education and Training
No academic institutions exist in Dominica where education and training in aquaculture
related subjects can be obtained. Formal academic education can, however, be obtained at
the University of West Indies (UWI) either in the Campus of Cave Hill in Barbados, Mona
Campus in Jamaica and in the Campus of St. Augustine in Trinidad and Tobago, although
a specific programme in aquaculture is not available. The UWI has an exclusive liaison
centre on the island.
Some practical training and education at the farmers level can be received on tilapia and
particularly on freshwater prawn farming at the Government-owned Prawn Experimental
Farm in Belfast, which was initially funded by the European Development Fund (EDF).
The Government feels that the private sector has been sufficiently made aware of the culture
possibilities on the freshwater prawn, and makes use of its facility for (i) training and
education purposes, (ii) basic culture research to further improve the grow-out technology,
and (iii) to provide, at a subsistence cost, prawn seedlings throughout the island as a
Government contribution towards the development of the industry.
With specific regard to the rearing of tilapia, an experimental station was established in
1978 at the Botanical Gardens of Roseau, operated with funds from USAID. An extension
programme was launched which enabled farmers in the rural areas to culture fish at the
subsistence level. The programme supplied farmers with pipes for water supply and
drainage systems, and a first stock of fingerlings. In 1982, however, the project collapsed
due to lack of funds and is presently still not operational.
The Government of Dominica, although still encouraging and providing technical assistance
and extension service to farmers interested in the culture of tilapia at a small-scale family
level, is placing more emphasis in promoting prawn culture. This is the result of a greater
interest manifested by the private sector due to the higher market price and demand of the
prawn compared to the tilapia.
Research
The only facility available to the public sector, where some basic aquaculture research work
can be carried out is the experimental station in Belfast, which is also fitted with a
laboratory equipped with the essential working instruments. Currently, applied research
being conducted aims at improving the output of prawn post-larvae, in order to meet the
growing demand of the farmers, as well as the grow-out phase by investigating parameters
such as stocking density, harvesting timetables, feed formulation and feeding rates.
The farm and experimental station presently consists of a hatchery and six earth ponds
totalling a surface area of approximately 0.8 hectares. More recently (April 1992), the
hatchery was expanded to include eight concrete tanks measuring 2×2 m and 6 octagonal
concrete tanks with conical bottoms. The technology employed at the farm is rather simple
using large plastic tanks (in addition to the new concrete tanks), air blowers, filtered
seawater and river water. The larvae are fed on imported brine shrimp eggs. Grow-out
trials with regard to stocking density and feed type are carried out in the farm's earth ponds.
The facility is managed by a Taiwanese expert. Presently the FD feels that the output of
PLs from its hatchery is sufficient for the needs of the farmers, although demand is
increasing. Thus, the FD has plans to improve its facilities to produce more PLs should
new farmers come into operation.
Technical Assistance and Extension
The Fisheries Division, although somewhat limited in extension officers, provides as much as possible support to the private sector with regard to technical assistance and extension support. The support provided to interested investors and existing farmers includes (i) land survey for site suitability, (ii) technical assistance for pond construction and water management, (iii) training and (iv) supply of prawn post-larvae free of charge or at subsidized cost.
V. Potential for Aquaculture Development
Physical Potential
Although the island of Dominica is of volcanic origin and characterized by a rugged
landscape, suitable sites are reasonably available for inland aquaculture development, where
small-scale operations (earth ponds) can be established. With regard to surface freshwater,
it is abundantly available throughout the island and therefore not a limiting factor.
An overall land survey of the country, for the identification of suitable sites for aquaculture
development, has been carried out in the recent past mainly with regard to land morphology
and water availability. The Fisheries Division, however, feels that an additional survey is
required taking into account other important factors such as land geology (i.e. soil type),
land ownership, and availability of infrastructures (roads, electricity and other services).
Development of coastal aquaculture, although possibly achievable in certain areas and by
using certain culture techniques (e.g. long-lines), is generally less feasible than inland
aquaculture, basically due to the overall steep and exposed coastline.
Species
Taking into account the availability of the country's natural resources, land topography/morphology, available technologies and present market demand, commercial and/or semi-commercial aquaculture development in Dominica exists for the following types of culture:
freshwater pond culture of tilapia;
mariculture of tilapia in floating netcages;
freshwater pond culture of M. rosenbergii and possibly other indigenous prawn species of the same genus; and
mariculture of seamoss (Gracilaria spp.) using long-lines and/or floating rafts.
Finance
Loans for farmers interested in commercial aquaculture operations can be obtained either from the National Commercial Bank (a semi-government institution) and the Agricultural Industrial Development Bank (AIDB) under the Ministry of Development. The AIDB has established a main credit line of US$ 1 million for the development of the fishery and aquaculture industry, which however has not yet being utilize. Other loans are also available through the above mentioned bank at an annual interest rate of 5%.
VI. Fish Handling, Processing and Marketing
At present, production from aquaculture operations (as most of the catch from the capture fishery) is sold fresh either in the vicinity of the culture sites or in small outlets in the major inhabited centres. Freshwater prawns are usually graded according to size and mainly sold directly to hotels and restaurants. The grading system and government sale prices are as follows:
| • Grade A (Large) | 13–17 prawns/kg | @ 5.8 US$/kg |
| • Grade B (medium) | 26–35 prawns/kg | @ 5.2 US$/kg |
| • Grade C (small) | 35–53 prawns/kg | @ 4.7 US$/kg |
The above prices are presently subsidized by the Government in an effort to promote the
consumption of the prawn. Once the private sector starts producing the prawn in reasonable
amounts, it is likely that production costs will be higher and consequently the retail price
of the product will also increase.
The Fishery Division estimates that the local market will be saturated shortly (approximately
2 mt/year), and therefore future productions should be export-oriented.
VII. Conclusions and Future Developments
Within the limits of freshwater and coastal aquaculture development in Dominica, the Government, through the Fisheries Division, is making considerable efforts to promote the industry. For this developmental objective, the MALFF allocated 50% of the total 1991 fisheries budget to the Aquaculture Unit.
To support and strengthen the action of the FD, with the objective of promoting and further expanding aquaculture activities in the country, the following short and medium-term actions are likely to be necessary:
support of the existing research facility in Belfast, in order to (i) improve overall research capabilities, and (ii) training of farmers and extension officers;
detailed identification of suitable areas for inland and coastal aquaculture operation with regard to their physical characteristic and economic suitability;
promote research on prawn feed formulation using locally available ingredients (e.g. coconut meal and bananas) and tilapia rearing in seawater using netcages; and
VIII. Background Information
Background notes: Dominica - April 1990. United States Department of State. Bureau of Public Affairs, Office of Public Communication, Washington D.C. 4 pp.
FAO Fishery Country Profile: Dominica - December 1984. FID/CP/DMI. 4 pp.
Dominica Country Paper - Status of Aquaculture Programme in Dominica. Aquaculture Planning and Sensitization Seminar. Jamaica, 6–8 April 1987. FAO FI: TCP/RLA/6651, 148–150 pp.
Dominica Fishery Import Data, 1987–1990. 4 pp.
Dominica National Fishery Sector Plan 1991/92 - 1992/93. 3–4 pp.
Dominica - Updating Economic Note - February 1990. Latin America and Caribbean Region. Document of the World Bank. Report No. 8269-Dom. 39 pp.
