Journal of Aquaculture Research & Development

An assessment of the current status and future potential of the fresh water and marine aquaculture of barramundi (Lates calcarifer) industries in Cairns region 2015

3^rd International Conference on Aquaculture & Fisheries

September 29-October 01, 2016 London, UK

Mossamat Rashida Akter

James Cook University, Australia

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Aquac Res Development

Abstract:

The aim of the present study was to assess the current status and future potential of the fresh water and marine aquaculture industries in Far North Queensland 2015 using semi-structured interviews and administered questionnaires to elicit information from aquaculturalists in the region (n=5 comprising four barramundi farmers and one Queensland grouper farmer). The results revealed that despite aquaculture undergoing rapid growth and transformation around the world, the industry in Far North Queensland has a long way to go to reach its full potential and to compete with other countries in the region in terms of technology and in updating government policy and legislative frameworks to facilitate the expansion of sustainable aquaculture. Those interviewed stated that here have been no applications for new aquaculture farms for last 15 years in Far North Queensland, and lack of development may be attributed to the following factors: The regulatory burden is high; the standards imposed by regulators do not reflect the true impact of the industry and are in need of review; the industry has difficulty in attracting, training and maintaining appropriately qualified labour and; the industry needs to modernise and diversify. Nonetheless, most of those interviewed are optimistic about the future of their industry, provided these matters are urgently and constructively addressed.

Biography :

Mossamat Rashida Akter is currently working as Visiting Scholar at James Cook University, Australia.

Email: mosammat.akter@my.jcu.edu.au