Potential for Coastal and Offshore Aquaculture in Portugal: Insights from Physico-Chemical and Oceanographic Conditions

Abstract

Physico-chemical and biological parameters along the Portuguese coast were analyzed to evaluate the potential to produce aquatic species of economic interest. Water samples were collected in 2018 and 2019 in five different areas of the Portuguese coast. Currents data were collected between 2018 and 2020 and historical waves height data from 1988 to 2019. According to the results, there is a wide variety of species that can be considered for production. The northernmost area presented the lowest temperature, as well as the highest levels of chlorophyll a, and nitrate. Under such conditions, the rearing of salmon Salmo salar, mussel Mytilus edulis, scallop Pecten maximus, macroalgae Porphyra umbilicalis, and Undaria pinnatifida can be considered. Regarding the southernmost area, due to the highest temperature, this area seems appropriate for the production of meager Argyrosomus regius, sea bream Sparus aurata, sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax, and greater amberjack Seriola dumerili. This study highlights the challenges in deploying aquaculture structures on the Atlantic coast due to its oceanographic conditions. Site selection for aquaculture is a complex process and pilot studies are essential to analyze the feasibility of developing offshore aquaculture along the coast of Portugal.

Ria de Alvor Suitability for Aquaculture: Future Challenges

“…It is essential to identify highly effective and productive locations for aquaculture to ensure both environmental sustainability and economic growth [41]. It is noteworthy that the present analysis only considers natural factors, omitting human activities and land use.…”

“…The upstream areas of the Ria de Alvor are prone to aquaculture of all species (conditions in the Suitable category for bivalves and Highly Suitable category for fish) during winter because of the high chlorophyll availability near freshwater sources. The availability of this food source not only simplifies farming techniques but also reduces feed costs [41]. Moreover, it has been shown to have potential environmental benefits [44,45].…”

“…This is likely due to the optimal combination of water temperature, salinity, and biogeochemical variables (pH, DO, and Chl concentration) that promote the growth and survival of bivalves and fish. Indeed, during spring, water temperature (on average between 17 and 18 • C) and Chl levels (>1 µg/L), which are among the most important factors for bivalve and fish production [41], are within the optimal range for all three species. Additionally, it is during this season that phytoplankton blooms tend to occur due to the combination of increased sunlight, warmer water temperatures, and higher nutrient availability [46], which can provide a food source for aquaculture organisms.…”

Regional Dynamics and Economic Sustainability of Mariculture Firms in Portugal: A Financial Performance Analysis

“…For example, the concept of blue foods and their role in achieving sustainable food systems is being explored, emphasizing the demand for seafood across geographic and temporal scales and the environmental performance of blue foods [30][31][32][33][34]. Moreover, ecological benefits and potential for offshore mariculture are being examined while mapping suitable areas and assessing the feasibility of offshore aquaculture for sustainable seafood production [35][36][37][38]. In this framework, government regulations, insurance policies, and incentives aimed at promoting sustainable mariculture development are important while addressing environmental concerns and social justice issues [39][40][41][42][43].…”

Growth, Fatty Acid Profile and Malondialdehyde Concentration of Meagre Argyrosomus regius Fed Diets with Different Lipid Content

“…and tuna (Thunnus sp.) [1,2]. The meagre (A. regius) is a sciaenid distributed in the Mediterranean and Black Seas and along the Atlantic coasts of Europe and Africa [3].…”