Mapping the wider impact of brackish water shrimp culture on the local environment and economy: A brief review

Abstract

Brackish water shrimp farming has changed the economic outlook of coastal areas of developing countries. Lucrative export opportunities, high profit margin compared to traditional aqua-culture and agriculture has led to an exponential growth of shrimp farming in the last decade. Although, this new non-agricultural economic activity has been identified as a game-changer in the rural coastal areas, the associated criticism cannot be ignored. Several scientific studies have particularly pointed out the adverse impact of unscientific shrimp farming and its long term effect on the coastal bio-diversity and environment. In the future and soon, the damage incurred can outweigh the benefit, leading to a potential irreversible downfall of local economy, food security and crop production. In this article, we have made a concise effort to map the wider impact of brackish water shrimp farming and a possible way out and suggestion for future bettermen.