ANNOUNCEMENTS
The state of Goa has immense potential to develop aquaculture as a primary and secondary livelihood activity for traditional fishermen and farmers in Goa. Khazan ecosystem is a type of reclaimed wetland, salt marsh, or mangrove area where the tidal impact is controlled by the creation of mounds and sluice gateways. The distinctiveness of Khazan ecosystems can be contributed to the construction and maintenance by conventional, primitive, and tribal societies of Goa, using the resources that are plentifully accessible locally.
The following study entails extensive research on the fish species biology, habitat compatibility, and impacts of climate variables across different locations, through a literature review of peer-reviewed journals, articles, books, and documents. Basic GIS applications and methods have been used for site identification. The use of R studio for data analysis has also been implemented. Understanding the socio-ecological dimensions of the livelihood intervention conducted for the introduction of fish fingerlings at various locations, through interactions with the local communities, BMC officials, and stakeholders involved in the project has been undertaken.
Climate trends across the locations have been analyzed to understand the impacts of the same on the Khazan ecosystem. Data has been collected from weather stations and meteorological institutions in Goa, while also incorporating information obtained from interviews with eminent scientists and traditional local knowledge combined.
Various types of aquaculture systems in Goa have also been studied theoretically and observed practically to understand the best suitable practice to be applied in Khazan ecosystems according to site suitability.
Comparative study of the application of integrated agriculture-aquaculture (IAA) systems that use a low level of inputs and fall under the semi-intensive type of aquaculture have been studied to promote a sustainable solution for implementation in villages of Goa to promote sustainable livelihoods. Such practices can be successfully implemented as the Khazan ecosystems are naturally occurring regions that are best suited for such initiatives to be conducted.
Keywords: khazan ecosystem, sustainable aquaculture, water quality, traditional aquaculture, species compatibility.
