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Abstract

The Sub-Middle region of the São Francisco River features exceptional conditions for pisciculture in terms of water resources, regarding both volume and quality. Attracted by the warm climate and the 820km² Itaparica Reservoir, the region has become a major aquaculture production area in Brazil, reaching 36 thousand tonnes per year [1]. The development of the aquaculture sector has proved to be an alternative source of income for families, improving their quality of life. In addition, it contributes an alternative supply to the regional market, reducing the negative effects of fishing on local rivers [2]. However, as aquaculture assumes greater significance as a global food production system, concerns about its environmental and social impacts have arisen. As in other animal production sectors, several aquaculture inputs-land, freshwater, feed and energy-are associated with significant environmental impacts.At the same time, the availability of these inputs is limited, and will likely become even more so in the future. In addition, water pollution, fish diseases, and escapes continue to compromise the sustainability of the sector [3]. The inappropriate discharge of industrial outlets and wastewater into the environment are causes of public concern as well as grounds for legal sanctions according to current Brazilian legislation [4]. Brazil has experienced recent changes in its National Aquaculture Legislation, which incorporate principles such as public participation, shared responsibilities and recognition of traditional knowledge of fishermen [5].