Mariculture: A sustainable and lucrative alternative for open access fishery

Abstract

The sustainability of open-access fisheries has been severely impacted by advancements in modern fishing technologies and the violation of institutional regulations. Overexploitation has led to immense pressure on fish stocks and the extinction of numerous species. As a vital source of livelihood for fishermen, open-access fisheries have become unsustainable. Consequently, fishermen need to explore alternative options within the fishing industry to sustain their livelihoods. One such promising alternative is mariculture, specifically the cage culture of fish species. In the Udupi region of Karnataka, the practice of cage culture typically involves two small cages and one large cage. This study evaluates the sustainability and economic feasibility of mariculture. Findings reveal that cultivating sea bass and wild-caught red snappers through mariculture is economically viable. This practice not only supports the livelihoods of fishermen but also alleviates pressure on open-access fishery resources.