Fish Farming
Definition and Importance of Aquaculture
Aquaculture is one of the main branches of aquatic farming, where fish are raised in controlled environments such as artificial ponds and floating cages, allowing precise control of environmental factors such as water quality, nutrition, and temperature, with the aim of increasing production and achieving sustainability. The importance of aquaculture lies in its contribution to:
- Achieving food security
- Developing fish stock development
- Increasing sources of animal protein
- Reducing fishing effort
Types of Fish Farming
Marine Aquaculture
Raising fish in open sea environments, typically in floating sea cages. Common species include seabass and grouper.
Land-based Aquaculture
Raising fish in on-land farms using concrete or earthen ponds, with controlled water systems. It can use fresh or saltwater.
Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS)
Closed systems where water is recycled and filtered, maintaining water quality and reducing consumption.
Aquaponics
An integrated system combining fish farming with plant cultivation, where fish waste fertilizes plants, and plants purify the water.
Fish Farming Steps
Step 1: Planning and Preparation
Site Selection
Consider water quality (sea or groundwater), accessibility, infrastructure, and market proximity.
System and Species Selection
Choose the farming system and species based on the environment and market demand.
Licensing
Coordinate with local authorities to obtain necessary permits.
Farm Design
Include number/type of ponds, appropriate dimensions, irrigation/drainage systems, and pond slope for maintenance.
Step 2: Implementation and Operation
Infrastructure Construction
Build ponds or cages, install filters, pumps, and aeration systems.
Input Readiness
Ensure high-quality
- Healthy disease-free fry
- Suitable feed
- Quality water and efficient drainage
- Environmental monitoring systems
Farm Operation
Feeding
Feed appropriately by growth stage and avoid waste.
Water Quality Monitoring
Regularly test temperature, oxygen, pH, and salinity.
Health Monitoring
Daily check for disease signs and respond early.
Harvesting and Marketing
Collect mature fish, pack or sell to consumers/traders.
Fish Farming Lifecycle Stages
Broodstock Stage
- Select mature healthy fish for breeding.
Spawning & Hatchery Stage
- Collect and fertilize eggs, then incubate until hatching.
Larval Stage
- Hatchlings depend on yolk sac initially, then feed on live plankton.
Fry Stage
- Self-feeding begins, transferred to special tanks for care.
Fingerlings Stage
- Fish reach 5–15 cm, moved to larger grow-out ponds.
Grow-out Stage
- Fish reach approximately 5-15 cm in length
Harvesting Stage
- Use special nets to collect fish, sort, package, and chill per marketing plan.
Factors in Fish Species Selection
Important criteria for choosing suitable species:
- Water Type: Compatibility with freshwater or saltwater.
- Market Demand: Prefer popular species for easier sales.
- Growth Rate: Faster growth = shorter rearing time = better economics.
- Disease Resistance: Species that endure environmental changes better reduce losses.
- Availability of Fry and Feed: Locally available inputs reduce costs.
- Adaptability to Systems: Favor species suitable for different systems (ponds, cages, etc.)
Saltwater Fish:
- European Seabream
- Orange-Spotted Grouper
- European Seabass
Freshwater Fish:
- Tilapia
- Carp
- Asian Seabass
Quality Factors in Fish Farms
Ensuring healthy and sustainable production requires managing:
Water Quality
Considered one of the most important elements affecting fish health and growth, including:
- Suitable temperature
- Safe pH levels
- High dissolved oxygen
- Low ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite levels
Fry Quality
Healthy, disease-free fry from trusted sources.
Feed Quality
Balanced nutritional content, free of contaminants.
Stocking Density
Avoid overcrowding to reduce stress and disease.
Waste Management
Effective drainage systems to remove waste and uneaten feed.
Hygiene and Maintenance
Regular cleaning prevents algae and organic buildup.
Health and Technical Supervision
Observe fish behavior, diagnose issues early.
Daily Records
Track feed, growth, water tests, and health to improve operations.
Fish Farm Project – Khorfakkan
Fish Farm Project – Khorfakkan
A project by the authority aims to create an integrated system for producing high-quality local fish using modern fish farming techniques. It enhances food security and supports a sustainable economy by offering year-round supply to local markets and reducing imports. It also supports the blue economy and sustainable development goals.
Facilities:
- Farm administration building
- Larvae hatchery
- Services and packaging building
- Educational halls