For fishing and farming communities in the Southeast Asian region, marine products are essential as an important source of income as well as an important source of nutrition such as protein and minerals. However, the socio-economic background of rural communities, including small-scale aquaculture operators, is becoming more complex. In order to develop and disseminate practical aquaculture technologies, an ecosystem approach is effective, in which local needs and the use of aquaculture fishing grounds are thoroughly discussed with relevant stakeholders in advance. In doing so, multiple scenarios can be presented as a decision-making tool for the community, enabling them to understand and share the direction of environmentally harmonious and sustainable aquaculture.

Ecosystem approach: A process for humans to use natural resources sustainably and rationally without destroying them while preserving ecosystems.

The project will develop and disseminate sustainable aquaculture technology in the tropics by applying community-based aquaculture farm management that maintains ecosystem functions (ecosystem approach to aquaculture), and improve the nutritional status of local communities by stabilizing the supply of aquatic products.

• Enhancement of sustainable aquaculture technology adapted to tropical regions and improvement of nutritional status of local residents
• Development of aquaculture systems that introduce high-value seed production and intermediate breeding in harmony with the environment in the tropics

Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines

Small-scale aquaculture producers and local communities, partner research institutions and universities, partner governments

HONDA Satoshi (Fisheries Division)