Desert aquaculture & environmental sustainability

Abstract

Aquaculture in semi arid regions has increased social and economic impact through the production of food, contribution to livelihoods and generation of income. The main goal of aquaculture in the desert is to utilize productively and maximally the water resources for an integrated aquaculture-agriculture system. Desert aquaculture increases the water resource’s an economical value rather than a serious competition in water consumption between aquaculture and agriculture. The aquaculture-agriculture system in the desert produces quality sea food all the year round. However, when badly managed, aquaculture can affect the ecosystems functions and services, with negative environmental, social and economic consequences. Under the right conditions and with careful preparation, desert aquaculture can be made sustainable and profitable without causing disturbances to the ecosystem. In the present review, the factors required for semi arid integrated aquaculture system towards sustainable production are discussed with its various components.