IV. LIBFISH AQUACULTURE COMPONENT WORKPLAN

Presented by

Dr. F. Vallet

FAO Senior Aquaculture Advisor

BACKGROUND*

* The programme originally set out in the Project plan for training activities and practical work under the aquaculture component was extremely ambitious, and it was also drafted with the understanding that basic rehabilitation work on MBRC facilities and equipment would be completed. The initial timeframe for the aquaculture programme was set for 30 months, with an additional 12 months' of technical backstopping by international consultants in various specialized fields.

It is doubtful that even these allocations of time would have been adequate to accomplish the very considerable amount of work, originally defined in the Project plan. The situation was made all the worse however with the budget revisions that were put in force last March 1994, which left only 12 months for the aquaculture component to be carried out and reduced the provision for consultant support to almost nil.

The aquaculture component workplan had to be modified to take the new restrictions into account The new workplan thus defines an initial 12-month phase and proposes a follow-on phase dependant upon a request for extension of Project activities.

Terms of Reference

Aquaculture-related activities are central to the fulfillment of Project LIBFISH (LIB/88/009) objectives, as stipulated in the Project Document (ProDoc) under Output 6 of Immediate Objective 1 (‘Strengthen the capability of the Secretariat for Marine Wealth, by the end of the Project, to control and manage the fisheries and aquaculture sectors of marine resource development on a sustainable basis.’), and Outputs 1 through 6 of Immediate Objective 2 (‘Develop the capacity of the Marine Biology Research Centre, by the end of the Project, to provide effective technical advisory and management services in marine resource utilization and aquaculture to the Secretariat of Marine Wealth.’). These various outputs and their associated activities are as noted below.

Present Status

Several of the activities listed in the ProDoc under Aquaculture-related outputs are comprised of a mixture of aquaculture and GIS elements. The GIS consultant has completed two missions to Libya, the first in December 1992 (two weeks) and the second in August -September 1993 (two weeks). During these visits basic lectures on GIS and remote sensing techniques were presented to MBRC staff, and surveys of existing facilities and possibilities for cooperation in GIS matters between different government departments carried out. Tutorial materials and computer software were also provided for use by MBRC counterparts, and a training programme was devised in coordination with the Bironi Remote Sensing Centre (Meaden, 1994).

Unfortunately, follow-up on these initial GIS activities has been weak. Designated counterparts have had to attend to other duties, and also have proved to be lacking in suitable background knowledge for training in GIS work and/or not very strongly motivated. New counterpart staff will have to be identified before GIS-related activities can be further pursued.

Progress in terms of the aquaculture activities per se lagged to some extent until March 1994 owing to difficulties in recruiting a Senior Aquaculture Advisor to serve on the FAO team. This situation was resolved through consultations between officials of SMW/MBRC, FAO, UNDP and Project officials which resulted in an agreement under which the former Project Manager/Aquaculture Advisor would assume fulltime duties as Senior Aquaculture Advisor and hand over the PM responsibilities to be exercised under a new post of PM/Development Planner.

The new workplan for the Aquaculture component presented here was drafted in March 1994 and reviewed first in May 1994 in a meeting involving the PM, Aquaculture Advisor and National Project Coordinator, and again in June 1994 in a more general meeting involving Project, MBRC, and Aquaculture Institute (AI) officials. A problem is that the original timeframe for the Aquaculture component activities is 30 months, whereas it is only possible to accomodate 12 months within the remaining Project budget. The original plan also made provision for a total of 12 months' worth of international consultant time for backstopping the work programme. Few if any of these consultant months are now available.

Under the circumstances it was decided to draft the new workplan in terms of an initial 12 month phase and a proposed follow-on phase (contingent upon extension/ availability of funding). Establishment and operation of pilot aquaculture facilities at the MBRC (Outputs 2.2, 2.3, & 2.4 refer) have been identified as activities for the later phase, except that, after consultation with AI colleagues, efforts will be made to support their fish hatchery development activities in Khoms (Ain Kaam Farm) as much as possible in the initial 12 month phase. The counterpart team for the Aquaculture component also was strengthened considerably from the original two individuals up to a level of 24 MBRC and AI personnel. Table IV/1 provides a breakdown of Phase I task allocation between members of the working group. A suggested timeframe for task completion is presented in Table IV/2.

1. PHASE I (MARCH 1994 / FEBRUARY 1995)

1.1 Assessment of Potential Coastal Aquaculture Sites

ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.1→ 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.4.1 → 2.4.2

1.1.1 Preliminary reviews

Tasks that should be undertaken as a foundation for assessment of aquaculture site potential include:

• review of existing surveys and studies;
• review of existing legislation;
• review of existing facilities and programmes;
• review of remote sensing imagery for coastline and analysis as necessary;
• develop ideas for prototype marine fisheries/coastal zone GIS and begin design, assembly of components; and
• preparation of preliminary Aquaculture Site Database.

These activities should commence immediately and followed up on a continuing basis in collaboration with MBRC and SMW counterparts.

1.1.2 Basic field surveys

Fieldwork required to complete assessment work includes the following:

• survey of potential aquaculture sites for intensive and extensive farming;
• survey of the lagoons with a view towards the improvement of their exploitation and management (e.g. collection of fry of valuable species, design of traps);
• survey of sites with natural production of Artemia sp.; and
• preparation of reports and resource maps for assessment of coastal and marine aquaculture potential.

Approximately ten months (cumulative) should be budgeted for completion of field survey work followed by data compilation and analysis including the further elaboration of marine fisheries GIS prototype with particular emphasis on the Aquaculture Site Database component.

1.2 Pilot Lagoon Management

ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 2.5.1 → 2.6.1

After treatment of the data collected during the survey, one lagoon should be selected for in-depth study and a detailed pilot proposal for its management will be prepared.

• in-depth study of one selected lagoon and preparation detailed pilot proposal for its management.

A total of around two months' time (cumulative) should be allowed for this exercise.

1.3 Environmental issues

ACTIVITY REF:1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 2.4.1 → 2.6.1

As it is of critical importance that environmental issues be taken fully into account, activities should be coordinated with planned investigations of pollution along the coastline by MBRC and university researchers. Linkages should also be established with other national authorities and agencies dealing with environmental monitoring and protection. Field trips to various sites should be undertaken to confirm cases of point-source pollution and other environmental problems and findings should be recorded in the Aquaculture Site Database and incorporated into the marine fisheries GIS.

• establish linkages with authorities and agencies having environmental monitoring and protection remits;
• field trips to confirm cases of point-source pollution and other environmental problems; and
• record findings in Aquaculture Site Database and incorporate as dimension of marine fisheries GIS.

Environment-related activities should be followed up as a continuing activity throughout the course of the work programme.

1.4 Hatchery and Farm Management

ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.5; 2.1.1 → 2.4.2

1.4.1 Install fish hatchery at Ain Kaam and produce fish larvae

Technical advice and training should be provided to AI and MBRC personnel for the installation of a hatchery facility and the production of fish larvae at Ain Kaam aquaculture farm in Khoms. Necessary equipment and plant should be provided by the AI. Steps to be taken are as indicated below.

• design hatchery facility (FAO Advisor);

• provide lectures and in-service training on hatchery techniques (FAO Advisor);

• organise and implement study tour/tours to other aquaculture/hatchery establishments in the region (FAO Advisor);

• conduct breeding and fry-raising trials with locally-gathered wild stock,

• construct hatchery facility according to specifications provided, and implement all recommendations for preparations to receive brood stock (AI/Ain Kaam personnel);

• order brood stock (sea bass and sea bream) and introduce to new tanks as per recommendations (AI/Ain Kaam personnel);

• feed and care for brood stock as per recommended programme and follow proper maintenance procedures for tanks;

• manage breeding of fish, collection and hatching of eggs; and

• provide for care of larvae and raising of fry according to recommended programme.

The period for execution of the above activities should be between July 1994 (construction of facilities and ordering of brood stock), through November/ December 1994 (breeding and hatching period), to March 1995 (fry rearing period). If there is sufficient interest and motivation amongst national counterpart personnel additional activities related to hatchery and fry-rearing could involve breeding experiments and fry collection/raising using wild stock.

• periodic visits to local fish markets to check on the sexual maturation of various species available and when appropriate live collection of wild broodstock in breeding trials to build experience for eventual application in operations using valuable imported breeders; and

• monthly fry collection exercises along shoreline at MBRC and Ain Kaam, for rearing and growout trials to determine feasibility of using wild fry as stock for commercial operations;

1.4.2 Farm operations and management

Producing fish through aquaculture requires the execution of several complementary activities: phyto/zooplankton production, broodstock management, breeding collecting and hatching eggs, rearing larvae and fry, fattening of fingerlings, and grow out of stock. Personnel with highly developed technical skills are required throughout the production process and the availability of suitable and reliable equipment (pumps, air compressors, filters, tanks, incubators, trays, etc.) is also an absolute necessity. In-service training through involvement in practical work should help counterpart staff at both the MBRC and Ain Kaam to build their technical knowledge of various aspects of farm management and support as well as their experience in equipment installation, operation, and maintenance.

Fish keeping operations/facility maintenance

• operation and routine maintenance of MBRC display aquaria to acquire practical skills in fish keeping;

• temporary improvements to sea water and air supply systems and other MBRC aquaria facilities and equipment insofar as possible pending completion of planned major rehabilitation works;

• evaluation of sea water supply and aeration systems at Aim Kaam and improvements as indicated;

• collection of live specimens from local fishers and periodic live fish catching cruises with the Project research vessel, for transfer to holding tanks kept permanently ready for this purpose and eventually to stock in the MBRC aquaria; and

• conduct regular visits to Ain Kaam farm to consult with staff and conduct routine inspection of conditions, feeding practices, etc.

Feed and feeding techniques

• develop skills and installations for phytoplankton and zooplankton production, including the culture of select strains and mass production capabilities for eventually hatchery application; and

• insofar as possible in anticipation of Project follow-on activities (possible Phase II), develop skills and installations for pelleted feed production, including initial survey of raw material and feed stock available or potentially available from local suppliers, identification of suitable feed formulae, and quality control routines.

• coordinate between feed production support groups to ensure that there are common reference points for the work being undertaken ~ live feed production in accordance with needs of fish larvae and fry trials, pelleted feed matched to species requirements, etc.

Disease control

• provide advice on disease prevention and treatment at Ain Kaam and through regular visits and consultations with AI staff monitor the quality of farm facility and fish keeping operations (cleaning, aeration, contamination problems, etc.).

1.5 Training

ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.5; 2.1.1 → 2.4.2

1.5.1 In-service training

A series of briefing sessions covering a range of topics and specialities is already in progress (since October 1993). The purpose of these training sessions is to provide national technicians and scientists with a foundation upon which further specialised training can build. The practice has been to hold briefings at least once every week or two. This routine should continue insofar as can be accommodated by the demands of fieldwork and other activities.

Normal ‘in-service training’ is provided in the course of day-to-day activities as defined by the work programme outlined above, with the Advisor providing explanations and suggestions to counterparts as and when required.

• regular briefing sessions/lectures on aspects of aquaculture production and areas of specialisation; and

• provision of routine in-service training.

1.5.2 Specialised training/fellowships

Study tours arranged in collaboration with specialized institutions in the region would provide opportunities for national staff who already have background in some techniques to receive further training needed for the proper execution of their duties. Possibilities are now being followed up with the NAC in Malta.

• organise and implement regional study tours as feasible.

1.6 Co-operation with National and Regional Organisations

ACTIVITY REF; 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.1.1 → 2.6.1

LIBFISH aquaculture component activities are intended to complement those of other national organizations such as the AI and the Universities of Tripoli and Zawia. Steps have already been taken to nominate AI staff to serve as Project counterparts and it would be appropriate to enlist the participation of relevant personnel from the other institutions as well. The SMW should ensure that there is coordinated preparation of programmes of work in order to obtain the maximum efficiency from all national organizations with aquaculture interests and to avoid wasteful duplication of effort.

The regional FAO project MEDRAP II (Mediterranean Regional Aquaculture Project) is in charge of coordinating aquaculture development within the entire Mediterranean basin. A principal focus of MEDRAP II activity is the organisation of workshops, study tours, and courses for member country aquaculture personnel. LIBFISH cooperation with MEDRAP II is essential. The Aquaculture Advisor and Project Manager are available -- and should be called upon — to provide assistance in identifying relevant workshops and candidates to participate in them, preparation of technical papers, and generally to facilitate regional linkages.

• facilitate participation of personnel/officers from other national institutions/agencies with aquaculture interests; and

• provide assistance and technical backstopping for participation in regional aquaculture workshops, meetings, programmes, etc.

1.7 Consultancies/ Advisory Services for Government and Private Investors

ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.1.1 → 2.6.1

On request of the SMW and other Government agencies as well as private businesspeople, and insofar as can be accomodated given other priorities of the work programme, the Aquaculture Working Group should be prepared to conduct ad hoc studies and investigations, draft development proposals, and evaluate investment projects.

• provision of aquaculture advisory services, feasibility studies at request of public and private agencies.

1.8 Reporting

ACTIVITY REF; 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.4.1 → 2.6.1

1.8.1 General

Technical reports and briefings should be prepared as often as is practicable through the course of the work programme. On request of the Project Manager, the Advisor may contribute to the preparation of general reports for the Project. Quarterly updates will also be prepared by the Aquaculture Working Group for incorporation into overall Project progress reports.

• technical reports, briefings.

1.8.2 Draft aquaculture development programme

If time allows, a draft Aquaculture Development Programme should be prepared on the basis of the various reviews and surveys noted above.

• draft aquaculture development programme.

2. PHASE II (MARCH 1995 / FEBRUARY 1996 -- PROPOSED)

2.1 Establishment of Pilot Aquaculture Facilities at MBRC

ACTIVITY REF:2.1.1 → 2.4.2

The establishment of pilot aquaculture facilities at MBRC and associated development of national staff skills is being followed up insofar as possible during Phase I. The full programme as laid out in the ProDoc, however, assumes a 30 month working period and extensive technical inputs by a team of international consultants. Such a programme cannot possibly be accomplished within the 12 month timeframe allowed by the current budget. Also, and very crucially, much of what is envisaged is based on the assumption that urgently needed rehabilitation of MBRC facilities will have been carried out, particularly as regards the sea water supply system. If the programme of pilot aquaculture facilities is to be implemented as originally intended, or even in a revised or scaled-down form, a second or follow-on phase of Project work will have to be provided for.

The main aims of this phase of work would be to;

• train national staff;

• develop and utilise a tool for applied research;

• keep selected broodstock of sea-bream, sea-bass and shrimp; and

• produce larvae and fry of these species for other institutions.

The Senior Aquaculture Advisor would update the drawings of pilot aquaculture facilities which he prepared earlier (in his capacity as PM/Aquaculture Adviser) in February 1992. A consultant would be recruited for two one-month periods to review the proposal and to check the facilities after their installation.

The pilot aquaculture facilities would include:

• one hatchery for sea-bass, sea-bream and shrimp (one national specialist needed for the operation);

• live feed production unit for phyto- and zoo-plankton and Artemia(two specialists needed);

• experimental pelleted feed production unit (one specialist needed);

• broodstock of sea-bass, sea-bream and shrimp;* and

• fattening unit (one fish farm specialist needed).

^* N.b. Sea-bream Chrysophrys aurata is present along the Libyan coast but sea-bass Dicentrarchus labrax is very rare and will probably have to be imported from Tunisia. The local spotted bass Dicentrarchus punctatus is not suitable for aquaculture due to its low growth rate.

Further to the rehabilitation of the aquaria, the Advisor would supervise their operation and maintenance. One aquarium specialist and the fish farm specialist should be in charge of the aquaria and would receive assistance and in-service training from the Advisor.

2.2 Operation and maintenance of pilot aquaculture facilities

ACTIVITY REF: 2.1.1→ 2.4.2

The national specialists trained during Phase I would be designated to operate the pilot aquaculture facilities. They would obtain valuable experience through this work in maintaining broodstock, fry and larvae production for other institutions, and the conduct of applied research aimed at improving fishfarming techniques.

2.3 Reporting

ACTIVITY REF: 2.3.1 → 2.6.1

The Advisor along with national specialists would prepare technical reports presenting results of the work done with the pilot aquaculture facilities during a Phase II operation, and convene technical workshops/meetings as appropriate to present and discuss trials and findings. A final comprehensive report would be prepared by the Advisor at the close of the Project.

TABLE IV/1

LIB/88/009 -TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT- GCP/LIB/021/IsDB

TABLE IV/2

SUGGESTED WORK PROGRAMME FOR AQUA COMPONENT