Photo of the beach in Port Aransas, Texas

MSI Public Lecture Series

Dr. Joan Holt

University of Texas Marine Science Institute

Thursday, January 13^th, 2005 at 7:00 PM
University of Texas Marine Science Institute, Visitor Center Auditorium

“Can We Have Our Fish and Eat it Too? The Role of Fish Culture in Conserving Marine Resources"

Fish are among the most amazing creatures. We enjoy seeing them in fish tanks or while scuba diving, millions fish for them commercially or for sport and most of us eat fish regularly. But fish populations are declining worldwide due to over-fishing, habitat degradation, and pollution. In the Gulf of Mexico red snapper, Atlantic croaker, and southern flounder are all of special concern. Coral reefs are threatened by dynamite fishing, pollution, development and global warming.

Aquaculture can reduce fishing pressure on natural populations by providing an alternative source for fish products, and can supply young fish for replenishing natural populations.

Rapid growth of aquaculture could compensate for the declines in catches by supplying consumers with alternate sources of fish products. The culture of marine tropical fish would help safeguard coral reefs and develop a new source of organisms for the aquarium trade.

Research at UTMSI is underway to develop techniques for the culture of fish in closed systems, on land, potentially far away from oceans or coral reefs. In addition we are investigating natural spawning sites and nursery grounds for young fish in the nearshore and coastal waters. We know that these are two very critical time points in the life of fish that regulate whether we have an abundance of fish or very low numbers. The goal of our research is to ensure healthy fish populations and to promote sustainable aquaculture of marine fish.

Modified:: Tuesday January 25, 2005