Aquaculture Engineering

Selection of site for Aquafarm - Site selection criteria

Unit 2- Fish Farm

Selection of site for Aquafarm

Site selection criteria
Selection of a suitable site is the first and fore most step in the design, planning, construction, operation and maintenance of fish farms. A mistake is made during the phase of site selection may result in higher cost of construction, culture operation and maintenance and may creates environmental problems also. Selection of a suitable site strongly influences the ultimate success of the aquaculture enterprise. The process of site selection is not only to determine the suitability of site, it is also valuable in determining the modifications required with regard to make farming possible at a given site. For high production and efficient management knowledge of local area and experience coupled with scientific and engineering expertise are also required. Although no site will poses all desired characteristics. Yet one has to select a site so as to obtain maximum production at minimum cost of construction and management. “A suitable site is one that provides optimum conditions for the growth of species cultured at the targeted production level given an effective pond design and support facilities”.

Site selection criteria mainly depending upon the following points

• The species to be cultured
• The targeted production level
• Culture technology
• Investment