The role of ICES in supporting research in mariculture

The paper describes the historic development of the Mariculture Committee within ICES and highlights the areas of research in which ICES scientists were involved. These include: environmental issues within mariculture systems, introductions of exotic species, impact of mariculture on the environment, rearing and culture technology developments in Member Countries, overriding problems in diseases, their diagnosis and control, and finally, the area of interaction with other resource users in the coastal zone. Prior to the mid-1970s, mariculture subjects were covered by the Fisheries Improvement, ANACAT, and Shellfish and Benthos Committees. Extensive discussions over several years by various ICES bodies led finally to recommendations in 1974 to form a Mariculture Working Group and, three years later, to the recommendation to establish the Mariculture Committee. At that time, the development of marine shellfish farming had already reached an impressive production level, and finfish culture in ICES Member Countries began to increase rapidly, although initial attempts at finfish cage culture date back to the early 1960s. The Mariculture Committee and its working groups have, over the years, provided extensive advice to the Council and its customers on research priorities, environmental issues, and biotechnological needs. The proactive role of this Committee peaked in the late 1980s and 1990s. Unfortunately, ICES has, in recent years, lost competence in some areas of mariculture research to other organizations. Several of the options to regain momentum are discussed.

Article from Marine Science Symposia Vol. 215 - 100 years of science under ICES. To access the remaining articles please click on the keyword "MSS Vol. 215".