Introduction

Aquaculture is one of the world's fastest growing industries. Over the past 10 years it has enjoyed an average growth rate of over 8% annually. In the coming years, as it will be expected to supply the increasing demand for aquatic food, the industry will face many challenges in its aim to become economically, socially and environmentally sustainable.

In Israel there is an emphasis on developing aquaculture in an environmentally sustainable manner. One example of this approach is found in the use of ponds' wastewater to irrigate crop fields situated next to them, leading to a reduction in the use of fertilisers, among other advantages.

This program exposes participants to the economic factors involved in planning sustainable aquaculture development, using the Israeli experience in species diversity, market value and the global trade of aquaculture.

The program will focus on intensive production in fish ponds and aquacultural management. It will familiarise participants with modern technologies, fresh products storage and the problems associated with fish farming. They will study aqua cultural technologies, including feeding methods in intensive fish production, balanced breeding for occupied ponds, and the necessary management in expiration and prevention of fish diseases.

Program Description

Participants will acquire information on feeding, breeding and disease-control related to economic aspects. They will be exposed to modern production systems, both for small family businesses and cooperative mass activity. They will visit aquatic fresh and frozen food processing sites, and follow the product throughout the entire marketing chain until it arrives on the supermarket shelf.

Program Participants

The program has been designed for officials and professionals involved in the planning, design, operation and management of Aquaculture. It is appropriate for those who wish to acquire deeper knowledge of the aquaculture industry, especially if they are focused on the rapidly growing Asian and South American markets.