The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has taken a bold step towards sustainable fish farming with the launch of the first sea cage aquaculture project in the emirate. This groundbreaking initiative, located southeast of Delma Island in the Al Dhafra Region, marks a significant milestone in the Middle East, blending cutting-edge technology with environmental stewardship.
The project’s core revolves around six specially designed floating cages, strategically positioned to optimize space and resources. These cages are expected to yield an impressive 100 tonnes of fish annually, focusing on high-value species like Safi Arabi, Gabit, Shaam, and Sheri, known for their exceptional taste and market demand. This innovative approach goes beyond quantity, emphasizing quality by providing a controlled environment that mimics the natural habitat of these species, promoting healthy growth and vitality.
To kickstart this ambitious project, 480,000 fish were released into the cages, comprising a carefully balanced mix of 168,000 Safi Arabi, 122,000 Gabit, 100,000 Shaam, and 90,000 Sheri. Each species was selected for its market value and adaptability to the controlled aquaculture environment, ensuring balanced growth and sustainability.
The project’s true innovation lies in its integration of artificial intelligence and advanced data collection systems, setting a new standard for sustainable aquaculture in the region. These technologies enable real-time monitoring and management, allowing for immediate responses to changes in the aquatic environment, ensuring optimal conditions for fish growth. This commitment to technology and environmental management not only bolsters food security and economic development but also showcases how technology and environmental responsibility can work hand in hand.
The project is also a testament to the UAE’s broader objectives of ensuring food security by developing a reliable and sustainable source of high-quality seafood. By cultivating fish in controlled environments, the initiative addresses the increasing pressure on wild fish populations and helps preserve biodiversity, aligning with global efforts to promote sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices.
This ambitious project not only aims to revolutionize aquaculture practices in the region but also prioritizes advancing scientific knowledge and research. The project will study the cultivation of local fish species using innovative floating cage systems, providing valuable insights into sustainable fish farming practices. This research will contribute to the development of environmental protocols tailored to the specific conditions of Abu Dhabi’s marine environment, paving the way for responsible expansion of sea-based aquaculture in the region.
To ensure the highest standards of sustainability, the project utilizes advanced environmental sensors to continuously monitor essential marine water quality parameters, including temperature, pH levels, salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and ammonia concentrations. These sensors provide real-time data, guaranteeing optimal conditions for fish health and growth. Underwater and surface cameras are also deployed to observe fish behavior and assess feeding efficiency. A smart gateway, powered by solar panels, facilitates seamless data transmission, integrating all monitoring systems to maintain efficient oversight of the aquaculture environment.
Before launching the project, the EAD conducted rigorous hydrodynamic and environmental modeling, utilizing cutting-edge techniques to identify suitable aquaculture development zones within the Al Dhafra region. This comprehensive modeling approach was crucial in determining the maximum sustainable biomass of fish that could be cultured at each site without negatively impacting the surrounding marine environment. By establishing these zones, EAD aims to balance high fish production with the preservation of marine ecosystems, ensuring that aquaculture practices are both environmentally sustainable and economically viable.
The Abu Dhabi sea cage aquaculture project represents a beacon of hope for sustainable fish farming, demonstrating the power of technology and environmental stewardship to meet the increasing global demand for seafood while safeguarding marine ecosystems. This innovative initiative serves as a blueprint for sustainable aquaculture development, not only in the UAE but also across the globe.
