Diagnosis of mariculture in Ecuador: opportunities and challenges

Abstract

Aquaculture is considered as a mechanism to meet the growing demand of the world population for proteins, while mariculture has a minimal impact on the environment compared to other production activities in the oceans. Ecuador is a world leader in the export production of white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei), which shows its capacity in this field. The aim of this study is to present a diagnosis of the potential of mariculture and to describe the opportunities and challenges through an analysis of research and development carried out on marine cultures, linked to the current regulations of regularization and ordination. The results indicate that the country has the appropriate conditions to expand the diversification of aquaculture with marine species of fish, molluscs, echinoderms, and macroalgae, but with a greater focus on bivalve and macroalgae cultures, which have been conducted, until now, practically only in the province of Santa Elena. Experience in larviculture and growing out of some species in aquaculture systems is recorded, but with limited development for the promotion of marine cultures. Aquaculture is regulated and ordered under the Organic Law for the Development of Aquaculture and Fisheries, its Regulations and other secondary norms. However, the reference documents in consultation portals are out of date, limiting information to stakeholders (researchers, investors), reducing the potential development of multitrophic mariculture in the coastal margin of the Equatorial Pacific, as an activity that could contribute as an alternative to reduce pressure on local fisheries and with low environmental impact.