The Department of Fisheries is highlighting the expansion of aquaculture initiatives in an effort to educate small-scale farmers.
At the launching of Agriculture Month, held at the Guyana School of Agriculture, representatives from the Department told Stabroek News that to encourage aquaculture in the years to come training and development were critical. One representative stated that in fish cultivation, temperature, pH balance and other facets of aquaculture had to be taught to ensure sustainability. It was noted that technical knowledge was deficient and, in particular, a knowledge base in chemistry is imperative to promoting the industry.
Currently, Tilapia, Hassar and Jamaican Red Tilapia are reared in Guyana under the supervision of the Fisheries Department.
Initial investment is extremely expensive and for small scale farmers aquaculture may not be a venture that is entirely possible without assistance from the Agriculture Ministry.
The Fisheries Department also plans to educate the public in alternative preservation methods, such as the use of salt and drying as well as smoking.
