The Zawia marine aquaculture project is to be established-in-a section of the former Zawia quarry workings, and is designed to produce seabass, seabream, and possibly tilapia, under modern intensive raceway conditions. The accompanying diagrams show the proposed layouts.
As presently proposed, the project will be developed in two major phases, the first of which would be scheduled to start by early 1987, with initial stocks of fish being introduced in spring (May) 1987, for production as market-size fish by late summer 1988. Further stocks of fish will be produced in the hatchery from early 1988 and will support the expansion of production in the longer term. The use of tilapia may permit a more rapid development of production.
As proposed, Phase I, the initial stage of production will use the southern half of the main quarry floor leaving the northern area free for semi-intensive pond production. Thus the entire quarry site will be brought into production as early as possible. Phase II, in which the northern part of the quarry is brought into intensive production, will permit the site to be developed to its maximum potential.
The targets of production will depend initially on the availability of seed stocks, which in the first year will have to be imported. The initial production target of 50t will be expected by 1988 or 1989 depending on the availability of stock supplies. The establishment of Phase II will depend on the results of the initial production, but if these results are favourable, production of 100 to 150 tons from the fully developed project could be realized by 1989 or 1990.
The physical development of the project will be accompanied by intensive staff training with the objective of providing a skilled cadre of marine aquaculturists at Zawia, capable of expanding and developing production into the longer term.
It is proposed that initial site works, comprising pump station, water distribution, office and service buildings, hatchery, and raceways, be initiated as early as possible, and that a programme of staff training be run during 1987 to ensure an efficient start to the project.
Conditions in the area should be generally very favourable for marine aquaculture, and the project as proposed will be one of the largest and most technically advanced of its type in the Mediterranean region. The pioneering efforts involved in the project will create a potential for a valuable long-term contribution to the food supply of the Jamahiriya.,
