The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has introduced aquaculture farming in mined out areas in Mahdia to complement its re-vegetation project.
GGMC Environmental Officer – Forestry – Kim Goodchild said that the site was established in 2009 as part of the Commission’s reclamation project. She said a model was set up to demonstrate fish rearing to miners with the selection of a hardy species of fish.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release the GGMC’s current model considered three species used in the reclamation process, which included cultivating citrus, cassava, acacia mangium and aquaculture.
Goodchild said that over 2000 freshwater pacu fingerlings, donated by the New Line Aqua Farm in Region Three, were released into two old mining pits. She noted that this particular species is very hardy which makes it easier to rear in harsh environmental conditions. She also noted that promoting fish rearing in the area can boost recreation activities as log cabins and benches will be installed on site that will allow persons to indulge in sport fishing.
The facility also has a nursery for the production of the acacia mangium and other seedlings, some of which are provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Agriculture Research Extension Institute.
In addition, the availability of the reclamation site in Mahdia gives students from the Mahdia Secondary School an opportunity to conduct practical exercises particularly those pursuing Agricultural Science at the CXC level.
Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) Official Walter Matadial said that the fish used in the aquaculture project originates from Brazil and when compared to the tilapia the freshwater pacu can withstand a fair amount of acidity (ph 3.5-6). He noted that in about six months the fish can reach up to two kilograms, which is an acceptable harvest size, if they are fed properly. However, the adult fish can reach up to 70 pounds and maturity after five years.
Matadial also pointed out that increased rearing of the fish in the mining areas can result in the introduction of an easy new export market to Brazil since the fish is considered a delicacy there. He also said pricing would have to be addressed in the marketing process as in Brazil it varies according to the weight and size of the fish.
