The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), undertakes research in tropical marine science.
AIMS has recently been involved in two projects relating to the environmental effects of sea cage aquaculture in tropical environments. Project Two involved the investigation of environmental impacts from a sea cage aquaculture operation in the Hinchinbrook Channel, Queensland. The operation is located within both a Wet Tropics World Heriatge Area and the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area – indicating that aquaculture operations and protected marine areas are not incompatible.
Dr David McKinnon led this investigation and the final report for the project is available to download from the AIMS website. From undertaking the study, AIMS have identified a range of possible indicators that may be suitable for future environmental monitoring programs.
The overall results of the study indicate there has been no significant impact from the farm’s operation on the adjacent marine environment, despite it being in operation for over 20 years – good news for the environment and for aquaculture!
Excellent site, most useful for the aquaculture community worldwide.