Ningde, located in east China's Fujian Province, is taking significant strides towards sustainable aquaculture with the establishment of a new fish farm dedicated to the large yellow croaker, an endemic commercial fish. This initiative aims to reverse the alarming decline in yellow croaker populations that began in the 1970s due to overfishing.
Recognizing the critical state of the large yellow croaker, government departments, research institutions, and local fishermen in Ningde have collaboratively promoted the scientific cultivation of these fish. Their efforts focus on improving the aquatic environment to create a thriving habitat for the croakers.
In July 2018, Ningde implemented comprehensive seawater management practices alongside transformative improvements in fish breeding techniques. This included establishing clear seawater ownership rights and adopting a grid-based management plan, setting a new standard for marine farming in the region.
Additionally, Xiapu County, within Ningde, launched a rigorous campaign to standardize and preserve its mariculture practices. The county adopted strategies to manage seawater comprehensively and upgraded fish breeding methods by replacing traditional foam floaters with environmentally friendly alternatives.
These combined efforts have not only stabilized the yellow croaker population but also set a precedent for sustainable marine farming. Ningde's approach demonstrates how collaborative, science-driven initiatives can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits, ensuring the long-term viability of both the ecosystem and the local fishing industry.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
