Abu Dhabi Launches First Sea Cages Aquaculture Project
Under the Directive of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has initiated the first sea cages aquaculture project in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This project is guided by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of EAD, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s sustainable aquaculture policy.
Project Location and Goals
Situated southeast of Delma Island in the Al Dhafra Region, the project aims to conduct scientific research on local fish species using floating aquaculture cage systems. It seeks to develop environmental protocols for sustainable sea-based aquaculture, reduce pressure on wild fisheries, address climate change impacts, and support food security amid rising seafood demand.
Advanced Monitoring and Data Collection
The project is equipped with an advanced monitoring and data collection system utilizing artificial intelligence, making it the first of its kind in the Middle East. Environmental sensors will monitor marine water quality, including temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and ammonia levels. Underwater and surface cameras will track fish behavior and feeding efficiency, with a smart gateway for data transmission powered by solar panels.
Hydrodynamic and Environmental Modelling
Before establishing the project, EAD implemented state-of-the-art hydrodynamic and environmental modelling to create sustainable aquaculture development zones in the Al Dhafra Region. This modelling determined the maximum biomass of fish that can be sustainably cultured without harming the environment.
Fish Production and Species
The project includes six floating sea cages capable of producing 100 tonnes of fish annually. Targeted species include Gabit, Safi, Hamour, and Sheri, with 168,000 Safi Arabi, 122,000 Gabit, 100,000 Shaam, and 90,000 Shaari released.
Statements from EAD
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, EAD Secretary-General, stated, “As part of our efforts to promote sustainable aquaculture in the emirate and implement our sustainable aquaculture policy initiatives, we are conducting the first aquaculture cage project southeast of Delma Island, which will include the cultivation of local fish species that are vulnerable to overexploitation.” She added that a survey was conducted to determine the most suitable location for the project using hydrodynamic modelling and a comprehensive survey of various sites.
Doubts Revealed
Abu Dhabi -: Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country in the Middle East.
Sea Cages Aquaculture -: Sea cages aquaculture is a method of farming fish in large, floating cages in the sea. It helps grow fish in a controlled environment.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan -: Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan is a member of the royal family in Abu Dhabi and a leader who helps make important decisions for the country.
Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) -: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is a government organization that works to protect the environment and natural resources in Abu Dhabi.
Delma Island -: Delma Island is a small island located in the Persian Gulf, which is part of Abu Dhabi.
Sustainable Aquaculture Protocols -: Sustainable aquaculture protocols are guidelines to farm fish in a way that does not harm the environment and ensures fish populations can be maintained for the future.
Wild Fisheries -: Wild fisheries are places in the ocean where people catch fish that live naturally, without being farmed.
Climate Change -: Climate change refers to long-term changes in the Earth’s weather patterns, often caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels.
Food Security -: Food security means having reliable access to enough nutritious food for everyone.
AI Monitoring Systems -: AI monitoring systems use artificial intelligence (AI) technology to keep track of things, like the health and growth of fish in the sea cages.
Tonnes -: Tonnes are a unit of weight. One tonne is equal to 1,000 kilograms, which is a lot of weight.