Abstract
Marine aquaculture in Algeria is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for seafood and the need to diversify economic activities in coastal regions. However, this expansion poses significant environmental challenges, including water quality degradation, habitat alteration, and interactions with marine ecosystems. The DZAquaFarm project addresses these challenges by implementing an integrated environmental monitoring system for marine aquaculture sites across Algeria.
The project combines in-situ measurements and remote sensing data to monitor key environmental parameters, such as oceanographic conditions, phytoplankton dynamics, and ecotoxicological indicators. These data are integrated into a Geographic Information System (GIS) and visualized through an interactive webmapping platform. This system enables real-time monitoring of aquaculture sites and provides stakeholders with actionable insights into the environmental status of marine farms.
Preliminary results highlight the variability of environmental conditions across aquaculture sites, with some areas showing signs of eutrophication and increased susceptibility to harmful algal blooms. The project also identifies sensitive coastal zones where aquaculture activities may exacerbate anthropogenic pressures. A classification system has been developed to label aquaculture farms based on their environmental performance, promoting best practices and sustainable management.
By providing a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between aquaculture and the marine environment, the DZAquaFarm project supports evidence-based decision-making for sustainable aquaculture development. The platform also serves as an early warning system for environmental risks, such as toxic phytoplankton blooms, enhancing the resilience of the aquaculture sector in Algeria. This approach demonstrates the importance of integrated monitoring systems in balancing economic growth with environmental conservation in Mediterranean coastal regions.
Keywords:
Marine aquaculture , environmental monitor , webmapping