-TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT

LIB/88/009 GCP/LlB/021/1sDB

LIBFISH TECHNICAL BRIEFING NOTES, No. 21

REVIEW OF AQUACULTURE FUNDAMENTALS & THE LIBFISH AQUA COMPONENT PROGRAMME: WORKSHOP PROCEEDINGS (MBRC Tajura, 26-28 November 1994)

Compiled by F.valet & j. Eric Reynolds

FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS Tripoli/Rome, January 1995 FOREWORD LIBFISH Technical Briefing Notes (TBN) arc intended as preliminary communications about ongoing or recently completed work undertaken through the various Project components. This twenty-first number in the series comprises proceedings of the Aquaculture Workshop organised by Project LIBFISH in coordination with the National Aquaculture Centre (NAC), Malta, and the Marine Biology Research Centre (MBRC). Dr. C. Agius, NAC Director, served as principal lecturer, and Dr. F. Vallet, FAO Senior Aquaculture Advisor, as moderator. Their contributions towards making the workshop a success are gratefully acknowledged, along with those of Messrs. S. Al Ajnaf, A. Fituri, D. Hadoud, N. ElKebir, M. Magsoudi, M. Tresh, and A. El- Turkey of the MBRC. and of Messrs. A. Arara & O. Dreza of the Bironi Remote Sensing Centre. Thanks are due as well to Project Administrative Assistants Messrs M. Hamada and G. Paulose for their help with workshop preparations and assembly of these proceedings. TBN No. 21 documents further progress towards the fulfillment of Project terms of reference related to aquaculture in Libya. The Project's Aqua group is concerned, amongst other things, with: assessment of national aquaculture potential and existing capacity and requirements; site visits and evaluation: training activities in a wide array of aquaculture techniques including fry and feed trials, operation of experimental feed, hatchery, and supporting laboratory and production-related facilities; and the preparation of advisory reports to the Secretariat of Marine Wealth. The original version of this report is written in English. Interpretations and/or translations into other languages should be verified against the original. --J.Eric Reynolds Project Manager This report was prepared during the course of the project identified on the title page. The conclusions and recommendations given in the report are those considered appropriate at the time of its preparation. They may be modified in the light of further knowledge gained at subsequent stages of the project. The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this document do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the United Nations or the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations concerning the legal or constitutional status of any country, territory or sea area, or concerning the delimitation of frontiers. For bibliographic purposes this document should be cited as follows: F.Vallet & J.Eric Reynolds. Review of aquaculture fundamentals & the U8FISH Aqua 1995 component programme: workshop proceedings. Tripoli/Rome, FAO. 61 p. Fl: DP/UB/88/009 & Fl: GCP/LIB/021/lsDB, Technical Briefing Notes 21 (En). CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION II. WORKSHOP WELCOMING SPEECH -- J. Eric Reynolds, LIBFISH Project Manager III. FUNDAMENTALS OF AQUACULTURE -- Dr. C Agius. Director. NAC. Malta IV. LIBFISH AQUACULTURE -- Dr. F. Vallet. COMPONENT WORKPLAN -- FAO Senior Aquaculture Advisor V. SHRIMP MORTALITY AT AIM KAAM -- A. Fituri. MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group VI. STUDY OF TRACHINOTUS SP -- A. El Turky MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group VII. ZOOPLANKTON PRODUCTION -- M. Al Magsoudi, MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group VIII. PHYTOPLANKTON PRODUCTION -- M. Tresh, MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group IX. PELLETED FISH FEED PRODUCTION -- S. El-Ajnaf, MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group X. AQUACULTURE SITE SELECTION -- D. Hadoud, MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group -- XI GIS AND AQUACULTURE SITE -- A.A, Arara & 0. Dreza SELECTION Bironi Remote Sensing Centre XII. CLOSING REMARKS -- Dr. J. Eric Reynolds, LIBFISH Project Manager XIII REFERENCES CITED ANNEX 1. LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP & SITE VISIT TIMETABLE ANNEX 2. LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP SESSIONS ANNEX 3. LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP PARTICIPANTS ANNEX 4. TERMS OF REFERENCE, LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP AND SITE VISIT MISSION ANNEX 5. NOTES OF FIELD VISITS, LIBFISH AQUA COMPONENT MISSION ANNEX 6. LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP, EXECUTIVE BRIEFING ANNEX 7. PROPOSED LIBFISH-NAC HATCHERY TRAINING COURSE I. INTRODUCTION 1. Aquaculture-related activities constitute a central element of Project LIBFISH objectives, as stipulated in the Project Document (ProDoc) under Output 6 of Immediate Objective 1 ('Strengthen the capability of the Secretariat for Marine Wealth, by the end of the Project, to control and manage the fisheries and aquaculture sectors of marine resource development on a sustainable basis'), and Outputs 1 through 6 of Immediate Objective 2 ('Develop the capacity of the Marine Biology Research Centre, by the end of the Project, to provide effective technical advisory and management services in marine resource utilization and aquaculture to the Secretariat of Marine Wealth.1). 2. In-service and study tour training activities are essential to the realisation of these objectives, and have thus been an important focus of concern for the LIBFISH Aquaculture (Aqua) component working group. Although the component's technical and training programme has been subjected to a number of setbacks (Reynolds and Dawid, 1995), considerable in-service training opportunities have been provided on a continuing basis through practical work in such areas as live feed production, aquaria operation, fry collection and rearing, field site technical and assessment visits, and through a number of lectures on theory and basics pertaining to a wide variety of aquaculture-related topics.* 3. In an effort to expand aquaculture training activities plans began to be formulated in July 1994 to organise a study tour for suitable candidates from the MBRC and the Agriculture Institute in Khoms to attend a course in fish hatchery techniques at the National Aquaculture Centre (NAC) in Malta. Originally scheduled for late October -early November 1994, it was later decided in consultation with Dr. C. Agius. NAC Director, to defer the tour until late January - early February 1995, in order to coincide with the end of the sea bass and sea bream breeding and hatching cycle at the Centre. 4. In the meantime, so as to maintain the momentum of Aqua component training and to provide a wider audience of national counterpart personnel with an opportunity to acquire further background in aquaculture techniques and an update on LIBFISH Aqua activities, arrangements were made to convene a workshop at the MBRC in late November 1994, with Agius participating as principal lecturer. 5. This report provides a summary of workshop proceedings and includes various additional briefing materials as annexes. 6. The workshop and associated site visit timetable is shown as Annex 1, the schedule of workshop sessions as Annex 2, and the list of workshop participants as Annex 3. 7. Annex 4 shows the Terms of Reference for the Agius mission, and Annexes 5 and 6 respectively provide notes on field visit observations and the executive briefing which was convened for senior Secretariat of Marine Wealth, Aquaculture Institute, and MBRC administrative and technical officials at the conclusion of the mission.

* Reports on various aspects of these activities include: Meaden (1994); Vallet (1994a); Magsoudi and Valid (1994); Vallet (1994b); Fituri and Vallet(1994). 8. The programme for the NAC hatchery course to take place during a four week period straddling January - February 1995 is shown as Annex 7. II. WORKSHOP ON AQUACULURE DEVELOPMENT -TAJURA, 26-28 OCTOBER 1994 - WELCOMING REMARKS By Dr. J. Eric Reynolds LIBFISH Project Manager Distinguished Guests, Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen: On behalf of Project LIBFISH — Technical Assistance in Fisheries Development, the UNDP and the FAO, I am pleased to welcome all of you to this workshop of Aquaculture Development, hosted by the Marine Biology Research Centre. This is the fourteenth combined technical training/review workshop activity that has been implemented through MBRC and Project cooperation thus far. I should in particular like to extend a warm welcome to our guest lecturer for the workshop, Dr. Carmelo Agius, who as many of you know serves as the Director to the Malta National Aquaculture Institute. We are indeed fortunate in being able to have Dr. Agius visit with us and to participate in the five working sessions which have been scheduled over the next few days. He is a person who commands an extensive background in the field of aquaculture, covering a wide array of experiences in basic research, academic teaching, consultancy, administration, and practical operations. In addition to his fulfilling his rote as NAI director, Dr. Agius also currently serves as Professor of Biology on the Faculty of Science at the University of Malta, as special advisor to the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, and as Chair of the Malta Fisheries Board. These responsibilities make for a very busy and demanding schedule, and we should thus appreciate all the more his willingness to visit with us here, even if the time is all too brief. Given the very full programme ahead of us, we should without further delay invite Dr. Agius to begin the first session. Thank you. III. FUNDAMENTALS OF AQUACULTURE* Presented by Dr. C. Agius Director, National Aquaculture Centre, Malta 1. BACKGROUND Aquaculture can be defined as the rearing of aquatic organisms under controlled conditions. Aquaculture has a long history in certain parts of the world but whilst in the past it has often been conducted in an extensive manner, modern methods seek to intensify production due to increasing demand for fishery products. This is particularly relevant to the Mediterranean Sea where fisheries are fast declining due to inherent poverty of stocks and over-exploitation. In any event aquaculture should be viewed a supplement for rather than a replacement of fisheries at least for the foreseeable future. It is unlikely that aquaculture will ever replace fisheries totally, considering that the sea covers 80% of the earth's surface and that fish meal is still the major component of fish feeds. In developing countries aquaculture is often pursued as a subsistence-level activity whereas in industrialised countries it tends to be conducted for financial profits. Biologically it is advantageous to culture aquatic organisms because their buoyancy and poïkilothermy render them more efficient users for food than terrestrial, warm-blooded animals. Shellfish show further savings of energy since they are sessile and filter feeders. Production figures show a steady rise in aquaculture production worldwide. In particular there has been a steep rise in production of Mediterranean species, notably sea bass and sea bream. 2. SPECIES CULTURED The main aquatic species cultured are as follows: a) Finfish such as sea bass, sea bream, eels and tilapia. b) Shellfish such as mussels, clams and oysters. c) Crustaceans such a shrimps and lobsters. d) Algae. 3. TYPES OF AQUACULTURE SYSTEMS The production cycle is usually split up into the hatchery and the fattening stages. In the hatchery, broodstock produce eggs which hatch into larvae which are then grown into juveniles or fingerlings, as they are better known. Fingerlings are then grown to market size in fattening units. Hatchery operations are usually conducted indoors as they require controlled conditions. * Summary of lecture material presented in Workshop Sessions I, II, and IV 9 (see Workshop Agenda and related information in Annexes 1,2, and 3. For other briefing notes deriving from the Agjus mission refer to Annexes 4 through 7. Finfish fattening is usually carried out either in ponds, raceways tanks or cages. The materials from which these are constructed vary enormously depending on many factors such a species being cultured, material availability, etc. Ponds and raceways are usually dug into the earth (they may also be plastic lined) or built of concrete. Tanks are usually constructed of concrete or fibreglass. Shellfish fattening is usually carried out in bags or other containers placed on the sea bed or in off-bottom culture. Crustacean culture is usually earned out in tanks, trays or earthen or concrete ponds. Algae are usually cultured in tanks or in ponds. 4. WATER QUALITY AND QUANTITY 4.1 Quality Parameters Main water quality parameters relevant for fish fanning operations include salinity temperature, oxygen, carbon dioxide, ammonia, turbidity, levels of organic matter, productivity, and pH. 4.1.1 Salinity Water for aquaculture may be fresh, brackish or salty (seawater). Sometimes a species is restricted to a particular salinity, whereas others are able to adapt to different conditions. For example: a) Salmon spawn in freshwater, migrate extensively in the open sea and return to spawn in freshwater. b) Eels spawn in the open sea, migrate up rivers and return to the open sea for spawning. c) Tilapia show varying tolerances to a wide range of salinities depending on the species. 4.1.2 Temperature Water temperature is very important as it: a) dictates whether farming is possible, b) dictates growth; and c) dictates oxygen levels. It is important to note the inverse relationship that exists between temperature and oxygen levels. 4.1.3 Temperature Fluctuations Water temperature fluctuations are critical since fish are cold-blooded and their physiological rate is directly temperature dependent. General points related to water temperature are as follows: a) Ambient, open water usually fluctuates with season. b) Ambient, enclosed or semi-enclosed water such as in a lagoon will generally go to extremes being colder in winter and warmer in summer. This is a very relevant consideration in many North African coastal settings. c) Borehole water usually has a constant temperature year-round. 4.1.4 Oxygen Oxygen is essential as it enables food utilisation. a) Different species tolerate different levels of oxygen, eg. Tilapia is more tolerant than sea-bass to low oxygen levels- b) Borehole water is usually low in oxygen content. c) Enclosed water bodies could experience algal blooms which can be lethal to fish. 4.2 Quantity Parameters 4.2.1 Water exchange Water exchange determines three important processes, viz: a) Provision of food; b) Provision of oxygen; and c) Removal of wastes. Water quantity may dictate whether to select an open flow system as opposed to a recycling system. Open flow systems involve simple flow-through, therefore requiring large quantities of water. Recycling systems reuse water and require a minimum volume replenishment of 5-10% per day. Though they are very economical on water quantities, recycling systems are less widely used as much stricter control of water quality and more sophisticated waste removal technology are necessary. 4.2.2 Recycling system Basically two types of wastes have to be removed — viz., solid and soluble wastes. a) Solid wastes arc usually removed mechanically or by sedimentation under gravity. b) Soluble wastes are usually removed through the biological activity of bacterial filters (orbiofilters) wherein bacteria convert ammonia into harmless nitrogenous substances. The basic set-up of a recycling system is as follows:

Header tank → Fish tanks ↑ ↓ Pump Sedimentation chamber ↑ ↓ Collecting tank ← Biological filter Possible additions to this basic design would be an aeration system, temperature control, and ultraviolet treatment. 4.2.3 Calculating water flows Water flow requirements depend on many factors but are primarily dictated by oxygen demand which will in turn dictate the need for waste removal. a) The more sensitive the species under culture the higher the required flow. b) The younger the fish the higher the demand for oxygen. c) The higher the temperature the lower is the level of dissolved oxygen per unit volume for water and therefore the higher the flows required. d) Oxygen demand increases with increasing metabolic activity, therefore higher flows are required after feeding. e) The higher the stocking densities of fish stocks the higher the demand for oxygen and therefore the higher the flows required. 5. MAIN CRITERIA FOR SITE ASSESSMENT 5.1 Land-Based Farms For land-based farms the following factors are important: a) source of water, head of pumping. b) effluent discharge. c) area available. d) topography. e) soil/rock type. f) accessibility. g) services (power, tap-water, telephone, etc.). 5.2 Sea-Based Farms For sea-based farms important factors to take into account include: a) depth. b) exposure. c) prevailing winds. d) operational base. e) nearest safe port. f) bottom type for anchors/moorings 5.2.1 Cage culture Cages can be of the inshore or the offshore type. Formerly most cage culture was conducted along inshore protected coastal zones due to the reduced risk of storm damage. In recent years however there is the realisation that environmental damage and disease incidence are exacerbated in sheltered waters there has been increased interest in offshore cages. Cages can be of many different types of material including wood, plastic, metal and rubber (used lorry tires even!). They can be laid down singly or in groups. The siting of the cages is crucial as topographical and other features dictate water exchange which is vital for maintaining good water quality in order to efficiently remove wastes and replenish oxygen levels. Nowadays various offshore-type cages are available which have proven to function reliably for a number of years in very exposed sites. A vital requirement of such systems is a good diving team, since regular checking of moorings and nets is essential. Usually nets have a shorter life span than the cage collars. An important consideration is that breams have been observed to chew nets and escape through the holes; this is not a problem with bass. 6. POSSIBLE EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT 6.1 Negative Effects It is important to attempt to minimise the negative environmental impact in designing a fish farm. Possible negative impacts include: a) Competing uses such as tourism and pleasure diving. b) Aesthetic appearance, eg. farm land base in a touristic area. c) The impact of solid wastes. in land-based farms it should be possible to remove most solid wastes whereas in cage farms they should be dissipated by currents. d) The impact of soluble wastes. Soluble wastes should be removed by adequate water flows in land-based farms; they are likely to be diffused quickly in the open sea. 6.2 Positive Effects Possible positive effects include: a) Increase of fish in the sea which decreases pressure on wild stocks. b) Increase in food production for human consumption. 7. MANAGEMENT 7.1 Reacting to Emergency Situations Simple but useful tips to bear in mind under emergency situations are the following: a) Think hard before taking any drastic decisions. b) Suspension of feeding is usually safe and at times recommended. c) Avoid unnecessary panic. d) It may be too late to apply antibiotics. 7.2 Stocking and Transfers Before commencing any fish stocking operation it is essential to be fully prepared to accept the fish being transferred in. a) It should be determined whether quarantine is required in order to ensure the introduction of a disease-free stock. A health certificate should always be requested wherever relevant. b) All details of fish movements including stocking densities to be employed, etc., should be worked out well in advance of accepting any shipment of new stock. c) Fish should be starved at least 24 hours prior to transfer to reduce metabolic stress. Large fish can even be starved for 48 hours. d) Appropriate containers should be used for fish transfers including an adequate aeration system wherever applicable. e) It is important to remain alert for temperature changes during transport, noting temperature difference between point of origin and final destination. 7.3 Grading Regular fish grading or selection is necessary to ensure more uniform growth and to avoid cannibalism and repression of growth by dominant individuals. a) Grading is usually also accompanied by thinning. b) Before grading, fish should be starved to minimise stress. c) The frequency for grading depends on many factors such as species, size or age, season and farm type. 7.4 Feeding: Methods, Frequency and Quantity The main factors of relevance in terms of feeds and feeding are the following: a) Feed type. b) Pellet size. c) Quantity of feed that should be given. d) Frequency for feeding throughout the day. e) Careful note of any reduction in feeding rate. f) Possibility of using automatic feeders. 7.5 Diseases Diseases can be caused by: a) Parasites. b) Bacteria. c) Virus. d) Fungi. e) Dietary deficiencies. Avoidance of stressful factors/situations minimises the risk of disease outbreaks. 7.6 Prophylaxis Prophylaxis may be achieved by: a) Cleanliness. b) Proper disposal of carcasses. c) Regular disinfection. d) Taking special care about new introductions. 7.7 Treatment Treatment should only be resorted to if all else fails. It is much more advisable to prevent than to cure. Treatment inevitably stresses fish and has a detrimental effect on the environment, particularly microbial flora. Treatment can be carried out by the bath, oral or injection methods. It is logistically impossible to treat under some particular conditions such as offshore cages. 8. FISH HARVESTING AND PACKAGING Panic selling and premature harvesting of fish should always be avoided as this is normally uneconomical. Proper management and planning is therefore required. a) Be fully prepared with all the requirements such as boxes, ice, etc., before commencing to cull fish. b) Starve fish for at least 24 hours prior to harvesting. c) Take special care in summer when temperatures are high; maintainance of top flesh quality is ensured by keeping the fish body temperature low at all times from the moment of capture onwards. d) Part harvesting can be especially stressful. e) Seabass are particularly sensitive and extra care is needed with this species. IV. LIBFISH AQUACULTURE COMPONENT WORKPLAN Presented by Dr. F. Vallet FAO Senior Aquaculturc Advisor BACKGROUND* Terms of Reference Aquaculture-related activities are central to the fulfillment of Project LIBFISH (LIB/88/009) objectives, as stipulated in the Project Document (ProDoc) under Output 6 of Immediate Objective 1 ('Strengthen the capability of the Secretariat for Marine Wealth, by the end of the Project, to control and manage the fisheries and aquaculture sectors of marine resource development on a sustainable basis.'), and Outputs 1 through 6 of Immediate Objective 2 ('Develop the capacity of the Marine Biology Research Centre, by the end of the Project, to provide effective technical advisory and management services in marine resource utilization and aquaculture to the Secretariat of Marine Wealth.'). These various outputs and their associated activities are as noted below. Output 1.6: Reports and resource maps for assessment of coastal and marine aquaculture potential. . Activity 1.6.1: Prepare aquaculture resource maps and charts. Activity 1.6.2: Image analysis by remote sensing. Activity 1.6.3: Establish Geographical Information System. Activity 1.6.4: Visits to and description of potential aquaculture sites. Activity 1.6.5: Training activities in all specialties of aquaculture. Output 1.7: Reports on capacity requirements for fisheries and aquaculture sector. Activity 1.7.1: Determine the status of trade and license policy and their implementation.

Activity 1.7.2: Gather information on existing plant/facilities and development plans. Activity 1.7.3: Determine capacity and composition of fishing fleet and aquaculture units appropriate to resource base and market needs.

* The programme originally set out in the Project plan for training activities and practical work under the aquaculture component was extremely ambitious, and it was also drafted with the understanding that basic rehabilitation work on MBRC facilities and equipment would be completed. The initial timeframe for the aquaculture programme was set for 30 months, with an additional 12 months' of technical backstopping by international consultants in various specialized fields. It is doubtful that even these allocations of time would have been adequate to accomplish the very considerable amount of work, originally defined in the Project plan. The situation was made all the worse however with the budget revisions that were put in force last March 1994, which left only 12 months for the aquaculture component to be carried out and reduced the provision for consultant support to almost nil. The aquaculture component workplan had to be modified to take the new restrictions into account The new workplan thus defines an initial 12-month phase and proposes a follow-on phase dependant upon a request for extension of Project activities. Output 2.1: MBRC staff trained in fish stock assessment and marine aquaculture techniques through study tours and fellowships.

Activity 2.1.1: Organization of study tours and fellowships abroad. Activity 2.1.2. Assist the trainees in the use and adaptation of methods and

technologies learned.

Output 2.2: MBRC staff trained in stock assessment, statistics analysis, fry and feed production and laboratory techniques, through in-service training.

Activity 2.2.1: Training by Project staff and consultants on use of methods and

skills involved.

Output 2.3: MBRC experimental live feed, hatchery and tank facilities operational.

Activity 2.3.1: Prepare tender documents for design and supervision of

rehabilitation of aquaria and experimental tanks at MBRC. Activity 2.3.2: Produce experimental reports on: i. local adaptive trials. ii live food and fry production. Activity 2.3.3: Develop MBRC staff skills.

Output 2.4: MBRC laboratories in environment, fish disease and fish nutrition operational.

Activity 2.4.1: Carry out experimental work and laboratory analyses. Activity 2.4.2: Produce reports and results on the experimental work.

Output 2.5: Workshop in aquaculture and fishery resources assessment and mapping.

Activity 2.5.1. Organize a workshop on the basis of background material

prepared by Project staff and consultants. Activity 2.5.2: Ensure that participants apply the skills acquired for planning and

management purposes.

Output 2.6: Advisory reports to the Secretariat of Marine Wealth.

Activity 2.6.1: Prepare specific reports and recommendations in consultation

with and theassistance of senior MBRC counterpart staff. Present Status Several of the activities listed in the ProDoc under Aquaculture-related outputs are comprised of a mixture of aquaculture and GIS elements. The GIS consultant has completed two missions to Libya, the first in December 1992 (two weeks) and the second in August -September 1993 (two weeks). During these visits basic lectures on GIS and remote sensing techniques were presented to MBRC staff, and surveys of existing facilities and possibilities for cooperation in GIS matters between different government departments carried out. Tutorial materials and computer software were also provided for use by MBRC counterparts, and a training programme was devised in coordination with the Bironi Remote Sensing Centre (Meaden, 1994). Unfortunately, follow-up on these initial GIS activities has been weak. Designated counterparts have had to attend to other duties, and also have proved to be lacking in suitable background knowledge for training in GIS work and/or not very strongly motivated. New counterpart staff will have to be identified before GIS-related activities can be further pursued. Progress in terms of the aquaculture activities per se lagged to some extent until March 1994 owing to difficulties in recruiting a Senior Aquaculture Advisor to serve on the FAO team. This situation was resolved through consultations between officials of SMW/MBRC, FAO, UNDP and Project officials which resulted in an agreement under which the former Project Manager/Aquaculture Advisor would assume fulltime duties as Senior Aquaculture Advisor and hand over the PM responsibilities to be exercised under a new post of PM/Development Planner. The new workplan for the Aquaculture component presented here was drafted in March 1994 and reviewed first in May 1994 in a meeting involving the PM, Aquaculture Advisor and National Project Coordinator, and again in June 1994 in a more general meeting involving Project, MBRC, and Aquaculture Institute (AI) officials. A problem is that the original timeframe for the Aquaculture component activities is 30 months, whereas it is only possible to accomodate 12 months within the remaining Project budget. The original plan also made provision for a total of 12 months' worth of international consultant time for backstopping the work programme. Few if any of these consultant months are now available. Under the circumstances it was decided to draft the new workplan in terms of an initial 12 month phase and a proposed follow-on phase (contingent upon extension/ availability of funding). Establishment and operation of pilot aquaculture facilities at the MBRC (Outputs 2.2, 2.3, & 2.4 refer) have been identified as activities for the later phase, except that, after consultation with AI colleagues, efforts will be made to support their fish hatchery development activities in Khoms (Ain Kaam Farm) as much as possible in the initial 12 month phase. The counterpart team for the Aquaculture component also was strengthened considerably from the original two individuals up to a level of 24 MBRC and AI personnel. Table IV/1 provides a breakdown of Phase I task allocation between members of the working group. A suggested timeframe for task completion is presented in Table FV/2. 1. PHASE I (MARCH 1994 / FEBRUARY 1995) 1.1 Assessment of Potential Coastal Aquaculture Sites ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.1→ 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.4.1 → 2.4.2 1.1,1 Preliminary reviews Tasks that should be undertaken as a foundation for assessment of aquaculture site potential include: • review of existing surveys and studies; • review of existing legislation; • review of existing facilities and programmes; • review of remote sensing imagery for coastline and analysis as necessary; • develop ideas for prototype marine fisheries/coastal zone GIS and begin design,assembly of components; and • preparation of preliminary Aquaculture Site Database. These activities should commence immediately and followed up on a continuing basis in collaboration with MBRC and SMW counterparts. 1.1.2 Basic field surveys Fieldwork required to complete assessment work includes the following: • survey of potential aquaculture sites for intensive and extensive farming; • survey of the lagoons with a view towards the improvement of their exploitation and management (e.g. collection of fry of valuable species, design of traps); • survey of sites with natural production of Artemia sp.; and • preparation of reports and resource maps for assessment of coastal and marine aquaculture potential. Approximately ten months (cumulative) should be budgeted for completion of field survey work followed by data compilation and analysis including the further elaboration of marine fisheries GIS prototype with particular emphasis on the Aquaculture Site Database component. 1.2 Pilot Lagoon Management ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 2.5.1 → 2.6.1 After treatment of the data collected during the survey, one lagoon should be selected for in-depth study and a detailed pilot proposal for its management will be prepared. • in-depth study of one selected lagoon and preparation detailed pilot proposal for its management. A total of around two months' time (cumulative) should be allowed for this exercise. 1.3 Environmental issues ACTIVITY REF:1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 2.4.1 → 2.6.1 As it is of critical importance that environmental issues be taken fully into account, activities should be coordinated with planned investigations of pollution along the coastline by MBRC and university researchers. Linkages should also be established with other national authorities and agencies dealing with environmental monitoring and protection. Field trips to various sites should be undertaken to confirm cases of point- source pollution and other environmental problems and findings should be recorded in the Aquaculture Site Database and incorporated into the marine fisheries GIS. • establish linkages with authorities and agencies having environmental monitoring and protection remits; • field trips to confirm cases of point-source pollution and other environmental problems; and • record findings in Aquaculture Site Database and incorporate as dimension of marine fisheries GIS. Environment-related activities should be followed up as a continuing activity throughout the course of the work programme. 1.4 Hatchery and Farm Management ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.5; 2.1.1 → 2.4.2 1.4.1 Install fish hatchery at Ain Kaam and produce fish larvae Technical advice and training should be provided to AI and MBRC personnel for the installation of a hatchery facility and the production of fish larvae at Ain Kaam aquaculture farm in Khoms. Necessary equipment and plant should be provided by the AI. Steps to be taken are as indicated below. • design hatchery facility (FAO Advisor); • provide lectures and in-service training on hatchery techniques (FAO Advisor); • organise and implement study tour/tours to other aquaculture/hatchery establishments in the region (FAO Advisor); • conduct breeding and fry-raising trials with locally-gathered wild stock, • construct hatchery facility according to specifications provided, and implement all recommendations for preparations to receive brood stock (AI/Ain Kaam personnel); • order brood stock (sea bass and sea bream) and introduce to new tanks as per recommendations (AI/Ain Kaam personnel); • feed and care for brood stock as per recommended programme and follow proper maintenance procedures for tanks; • manage breeding of fish, collection and hatching of eggs; and • provide for care of larvae and raising of fry according to recommended programme. The period for execution of the above activities should be between July 1994 (construction of facilities and ordering of brood stock), through November/ December 1994 (breeding and hatching period), to March 1995 (fry rearing period). If there is sufficient interest and motivation amongst national counterpart personnel additional activities related to hatchery and fry-rearing could involve breeding experiments and fry collection/raising using wild stock. • periodic visits to local fish markets to check on the sexual maturation of various species available and when appropriate live collection of wild broodstock in breeding trials to build experience for eventual application in operations using valuable imported breeders; and • monthly fry collection exercises along shoreline at MBRC and Ain Kaam, for rearing and growout trials to determine feasibility of using wild fry as stock for commercial operations; 1.4.2 Farm operations and management Producing fish through aquaculture requires the execution of several complementary activities: phyto/zooplankton production, broodstock management, breeding collecting and hatching eggs, rearing larvae and fry, fattening of fingerlings, and grow out of stock. Personnel with highly developed technical skills are required throughout the production process and the availability of suitable and reliable equipment (pumps, air compressors, filters, tanks, incubators, trays, etc.) is also an absolute necessity. In-service training through involvement in practical work should help counterpart staff at both the MBRC and Ain Kaam to build their technical knowledge of various aspects of farm management and support as well as their experience in equipment installation, operation, and maintenance. Fish keeping operations/facility maintenance • operation and routine maintenance of MBRC display aquaria to acquire practical skills in fish keeping; • temporary improvements to sea water and air supply systems and other MBRC aquaria facilities and equipment insofar as possible pending completion of planned major rehabilitation works; • evaluation of sea water supply and aeration systems at Aim Kaam and improvements as indicated; • collection of live specimens from local fishers and periodic live fish catching cruises with the Project research vessel, for transfer to holding tanks kept permanently ready for this purpose and eventually to stock in the MBRC aquaria; and • conduct regular visits to Ain Kaam farm to consult with staff and conduct routine inspection of conditions, feeding practices, etc. Feed and feeding techniques • develop skills and installations for phytoplankton and zooplankton production, including the culture of select strains and mass production capabilities for eventually hatchery application; and • insofar as possible in anticipation of Project follow-on activities (possible Phase II), develop skills and installations for pelleted feed production, including initial survey of raw material and feed stock available or potentially available from local suppliers, identification of suitable feed formulae, and quality control routines. • coordinate between feed production support groups to ensure that there are common reference points for the work being undertaken ~ live feed production in accordance with needs of fish larvae and fry trials, pelleted feed matched to species requirements, etc. Disease control • provide advice on disease prevention and treatment at Ain Kaam and through regular visits and consultations with AI staff monitor the quality of farm facility and fish keeping operations (cleaning, aeration, contamination problems, etc.). 1.5 Training ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.5; 2.1.1 → 2.4.2 1.5.1 In-service training A series of briefing sessions covering a range of topics and specialities is already in progress (since October 1993). The purpose of these training sessions is to provide national technicians and scientists with a foundation upon which further specialised training can build. The practice has been to hold briefings at least once every week or two. This routine should continue insofar as can be accommodated by the demands of fieldwork and other activities. Normal 'in-service training' is provided in the course of day-to-day activities as defined by the work programme outlined above, with the Advisor providing explanations and suggestions to counterparts as and when required. • regular briefing sessions/lectures on aspects of aquaculture production and areas of specialisation; and • provision of routine in-service training. 1.5.2 Specialised training/fellowships Study tours arranged in collaboration with specialized institutions in the region would provide opportunities for national staff who already have background in some techniques to receive further training needed for the proper execution of their duties. Possibilities are now being followed up with the NAC in Malta. • organise and implement regional study tours as feasible. 1.6 Co-operation with National and Regional Organisations ACTIVITY REF; 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.1.1 → 2.6.1 LIBFISH aquaculture component activities are intended to complement those of other national organizations such as the AI and the Universities of Tripoli and Zawia. Steps have already been taken to nominate AI staff to serve as Project counterparts and it would be appropriate to enlist the participation of relevant personnel from the other institutions as well. The SMW should ensure that there is coordinated preparation of programmes of work in order to obtain the maximum efficiency from all national organizations with aquaculture interests and to avoid wasteful duplication of effort. The regional FAO project MEDRAP II (Mediterranean Regional Aquaculture Project) is in charge of coordinating aquaculture development within the entire Mediterranean basin. A principal focus of MEDRAP II activity is the organisation of workshops, study tours, and courses for member country aquaculture personnel. LIBFISH cooperation with MEDRAP II is essential. The Aquaculture Advisor and Project Manager are available -- and should be called upon — to provide assistance in identifying relevant workshops and candidates to participate in them, preparation of technical papers, and generally to facilitate regional linkages. • facilitate participation of personnel/officers from other national institutions/agencies with aquaculture interests; and • provide assistance and technical backstopping for participation in regional aquaculture workshops, meetings, programmes, etc. 1.7 Consultancies/ Advisory Services for Government and Private Investors ACTIVITY REF: 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.1.1 → 2.6.1 On request of the SMW and other Government agencies as well as private businesspeople, and insofar as can be accomodated given other priorities of the work programme, the Aquaculture Working Group should be prepared to conduct ad hoc studies and investigations, draft development proposals, and evaluate investment projects. • provision of aquaculture advisory services, feasibility studies at request of public and private agencies. 1.8 Reporting ACTIVITY REF; 1.6.1 → 1.6.5; 1.7.1 → 1.7.3; 2.4.1 → 2.6.1 1.8.1 General Technical reports and briefings should be prepared as often as is practicable through the course of the work programme. On request of the Project Manager, the Advisor may contribute to the preparation of general reports for the Project. Quarterly updates will also be prepared by the Aquaculture Working Group for incorporation into overall Project progress reports. • technical reports, briefings. 1.8.2 Draft aquaculture development programme If time allows, a draft Aquaculture Development Programme should be prepared on the basis of the various reviews and surveys noted above. • draft aquaculture development programme. 2. PHASE II (MARCH 1995 / FEBRUARY 1996 -- PROPOSED) 2.1 Establishment of Pilot Aquaculture Facilities at MBRC ACTIVITY REF:2.1.1 → 2.4.2 The establishment of pilot aquaculture facilities at MBRC and associated development of national staff skills is being followed up insofar as possible during Phase I. The full programme as laid out in the ProDoc, however, assumes a 30 month working period and extensive technical inputs by a team of international consultants. Such a programme cannot possibly be accomplished within the 12 month timeframe allowed by the current budget. Also, and very crucially, much of what is envisaged is based on the assumption that urgently needed rehabilitation of MBRC facilities will have been carried out, particularly as regards the sea water supply system. If the programme of pilot aquaculture facilities is to be implemented as originally intended, or even in a revised or scaled-down form, a second or follow-on phase of Project work will have to be provided for. The main aims of this phase of work would be to; • train national staff; • develop and utilise a tool for applied research; • keep selected broodstock of sea-bream, sea-bass and shrimp; and • produce larvae and fry of these species for other institutions. The Senior Aquaculture Advisor would update the drawings of pilot aquaculture facilities which he prepared earlier (in his capacity as PM/Aquaculture Adviser) in February 1992. A consultant would be recruited for two one-month periods to review the proposal and to check the facilities after their installation. The pilot aquaculture facilities would include: • one hatchery for sea-bass, sea-bream and shrimp (one national specialist needed for the operation); • live feed production unit for phyto- and zoo-plankton and Anemia (two specialists needed); • experimental pelleted feed production unit (one specialist needed); • broodstock of sea-bass, sea-bream and shrimp;* and • fattening unit (one fish farm specialist needed). Further to the rehabilitation of the aquaria, the Advisor would supervise their operation and maintenance. One aquarium specialist and the fish farm specialist should be in charge of the aquaria and would receive assistance and in-service training from the Advisor. 2.2 Operation and maintenance of pilot aquaculture facilities

ACTIVITY REF: 2.1.1 → 2.4.2 The national specialists trained during Phase I would be designated to operate the pilot aquaculture facilities. They would obtain valuable experience through this work in maintaining broodstock, fry and larvae production for other institutions, and the conduct of applied research aimed at improving fishfarming techniques. 2.3 Reporting ACTIVITY REF: 2.3.1 → 2.6.1 The Advisor along with national specialists would prepare technical reports presenting results of the work done with the pilot aquaculture facilities during a Phase II operation, and convene technical workshops/meetings as appropriate to present and discuss trials and findings. A final comprehensive report would be prepared by the Advisor at the close of the Project.

* N.b. Sea-bream Chrysophrys aurata is present along the Libyan coast but sea-bass Dicentrarchus labrax is very rare and will probably have to be imported from Tunisia. The local spotted bass Dicentrarchus punctatus is not suitable for aquaculture due to its low growth rate. TABLE IV/I LEB/88/009-TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT- GCP/LIB/021/IsDB

WORKING GROUP AQUA (AQUACULTURE) Post No. Post Title Name of incumbent Full/ Assumed duty (date) Part time Scheduled Actual (Est.) 01 Hatchery/General Mr. Hassan Guibli FT (MBRC) 02 Hatchery/General Mr. M. Enbaya (MBRC) FT 03 Hatchery/General Mr. Akram Al-Turkey FT 04 Hatchery/General Mr. M. Badreddin TBC Essagr (AI) 05 Hatchery/General Mr. Abdel Ati Hriz (AI) TBC 06 Hatchery/General Mr. Bashir Abu TBC Halfayah (AI) 07 Hatchery/Phytoplankt Mr. Hadi Abushagur TBC on (MBRC) 08 Hatchery/Phytoplankt Mr. M. Tresh (MBRC) TBC on 09 Hatchery/Phytoplankt Ms. Rabya Giuma FT on Zoghdani (MBRC) 10 Hatchery/Phytoplankt Mr. Abdulbaset Abu PT on Issa (MBRC) 11 Hatchery/Zooplankton Mr. M. Al Magsudi TBC (MBRC) 12 Hatchery/Zooplankton Ms. Fathia Mahamed FT Theyi (MBRC) 13 Hatchery/Zooplankton Mr. Amer El-Mariami TBC (AI) 14 Hatchery/Diseases Mr. Ibrahim Hafed (AI) TBC 15 Pelleted Feed Mr. Siddiq El-Ajnaf FT (MBRC) 16 Pelleted Feed Mr. Essanosi El-Gafaz TBC (AI) 17 Site Selection/Lagoon Mr. Dau Hadoud TBC Management (MBRC) 18 Site Selection/Lagoon Mr. Abdul-Hakeem TBC Management Ennafati (AI) 19 Site Selection/Lagoon Mr. Badreddin Essagr TBC Management (AI) 20 Aquaria Mr. M. Ragig (MBRC) FT 21 Aquaria Ms. Zeneb Abu Aaisha FT (MBRC) 22 Aquaria Mr. Fathi El-Kish PT 23 Aquaria Mr. Mansour El- TBC Majdoub (AI) 24 Aquaria Mr. Ramadan El- TBC Edrissi (AI) Remarks: Post allocation for Government project personnel generally is in need of review. Some posts have yet to be filled and in other cases incumbents are inactive. AI = Aquaculture Institute, Khoms. TBC = To Be Confirmed. * indicates counterpart participates in more than one working group.

TABLE IV/2 SUGGESTED WORK PROGRAMME FOR AQUA COMPONENT

Activity 1994 1995 Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. 1.1 Assessment of Potential Coastal Aquaculture Sites 1.1.1 Preliminary reviews • existing surveys and studies; ======CONTINUES ======• existing legalisation; ======CONTINUES ======• existing facilities and programmes; = = = CONTINUES = = =>> • remote sensing imagery for coastline and analysis as necessary: = = = =CONTINUES = = • prototype marine fisheries/coastal zone GIS; • preliminary Aquaculture Site Database. = = = CONTINUES = =>> 1.1.2 Basic field surveys • potential aquaculture sites for intensive and extensive farming; • lagoons exploitation and management; • sites with natural production of Artemia sp.; and • reports and resource maps. 1.2 Pilot Lagoon Management • in-depth study selected lagoon; preparation pilot management proposal 1.3 Environmental Issues • establish linkages other agencies/authorities with environmental interests; ======CONTINUES ======• field trips to confirm point-source pollution cases, other environmental ======CONTINUES ======problems; • record findings Aqua Site Database/incorporate into GIS ======>> 1.4 Hatchery and Farm Management 1.4.1 Install fish hatchery at Ain Kaam and produce fish larvae. • design facility; • provide lectures, in-service training; ======CONTINUES ======• organise and implement study tour/tours; ======>> • conduct breeding and fry-raising trials, locally-gathered wild stock; ======CONTINUES ======• construct hatchery facility according to specifications, implement

recommendations for preparation to receive brood stock. • order brood stock (sea bass and sea bream) and introduce to new tanks = = = = >> as per recommendations (AI/Ain Kaam personnel); • feed and care for brood stock as per recommended programme ======>> • manage breeding of fish, collection and hatching of eggs; • provide for care of larvae and raising of fry = = = = >> 1.4.2 Farm operations and management Fish keeping operations/facility maintenance • operation and routine maintenance of MBRC display aquaria • temporary improvements to sea water and air supply systems and other ======CONTINUES ======

MBRC aquaria facilities • evaluation of sea water supply and aeration systems at Ain Kaam, ======>>

improvements as indicated; • collection of live specimens from local fishers and periodic live fish ======CONTINUES ======

catching cruises with the Project research vessel • regular visits to Ain Kaam farm, consult with staff, routine inspection of

conditions, feeding practices, etc. Feed and feeding techniques • develop skills and installations for phytoplankton and zooplankton ======CONTINUES ======

production • develop skills and installations for pelleted feed production, survey of raw ======CONTINUES ======

material and feed stock locally available Disease control • advice on protection/treatment ======CONTINUES ======• regular visits to Ain Kaam 1.5 Training 1.5.1 In-service training • briefing sessions/lectures on aspects of aquaculture production and ======CONTINUES ======

areas of specialisation; • provide of routine in-service training; 1.5.2 Specialised training/fellowships • organise and implement regional study tours as feasible. ======CONTINUES ======1.6 Co-operation with National and Regional Organizations • facilitate participation oilier national institutions/ agencies with ======CONTINUES ======

aquaculture interests: • assistance and technical backstopping for regional workshops, meetings, ======CONTINUES ======

programmes, etc. 1.7 Consultancies / Advisory Services for Government and Private Investors • provision of aquaculture advisory services ======CONTINUES ======1.8 Reporting 1.8.1 General • Technical reports, briefings. ======>> 1.8.2 Draft aquaculture development programme • Draft aquaculture development programme V. HATCHERY AND FARM MANAGEMENT: SHRIMP MORTALITY AT AIN KAAM FARM* Presented by A. Fituri MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group 1. INTRODUCTION Towards the end of July 1994 sick shrimps were observed at the Ain Kaam aquaculturc farm with some mortality being reported every day. The LIBFISH Aqua Working Group was requested to visit the farm and provide technical advice on the matter. 2. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS General appearance of the animals: Eyes: whitish plaques and atrophy; Gills: dark spots; Body: light grey colour. Some of the animals had one eye missing due to the disease and were losing their balance (spiral swimming). They were expected to die within a few days. 3. WATER QUALITY Temperature inside the tanks in August around midday was 29.4°C in shade- protected tanks and 30.4°C in unprotected tanks. Dissolved oxygen was around saturation (6mg/l), which is quite low for shrimps. 4. HYGIENE Evidence of deficient hygiene could be observed in the following ways: a) Poor cleanliness of the hatchery hail (presence of birds and insects). b) Floor and drainage channel not washed very often. c) Shrimps fed on minced fish of doubtful freshness. d) Excess feed not siphoned out of the tanks. 5. PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT 5.1 Visual Observation Based on the symptoms observed and reference to relevant literature, it was diagnosed that the shrimps were suffering from black gill disease (Sindermann and Lightner, 1989). *For a more complete account of this investigation see Fituri and Vallet (1994). 5.2 Microscopic Examination Microscopic examination was carried out with the following results: a) Cone-shaped conidiospores of Fusarium could be observed through examination of wet- mounts of infected tissue prepared from lesions. This observation constitutes a definitive diagnosis of the occurrence of Fusarium sp. b) The fungus was isolated through in vitro culture of extracts of lesions on Sabouraud dextrose agar (at room temperature) and stain (lactophenol cotton blue). c) The diagnosis was further confirmed by the microbiology laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, El Fatah University, Tripoli. It should be noted out that the microbial pollution rate of the water from the tanks and of the specimens was very high. Further histopathological examination is in process. 6 CONCLUSION Superficial infection of the carapace and further internal contamination through abrasions by Fusarium sp. conidospores present in sea water and detritus left inside shrimp tanks may represent the main mechanism of infection. High temperature of the water in the summer time (around 30°C in July-August) and low oxygen concentration are additional factors provoking stress on the shrimps, leading to decrease in their natural immunity to infections. Furthermore, these conditions are highly favourable to a proliferation of microorganisms. It has also been documented in the literature that Fusarium spp. are commonly isolated from farmed or wild Decapoda Crustacea such as the ones used to feed shrimps at Ain Kaam farm. Poor hygiene conditions allow fast development of fungal infection throughout the farm. VI. HATCHERY AND FARM MANAGEMENT: STUDY OF Trachinotus sp Presented by A El-Turky MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group 1. OBJECTIVES Work involving Trachinotus sp. has been undertaken by the Aqua component team with the following objectives in view: a) Explore the occurrence of wild fry along the coast; b) Explore the possible use of local species for further practical use in aquaculture; and c) Facilitate training of MBRC staff in aquaculture techniques such as fry handling, keeping, and feeding. 2. ACTIVITIES 2.1 Capture and Stocking On the first week of October the LIBFISH/MBRC Aqua Group started collecting Trachinotus sp. fry along the MBRC beach, using a 10 meter-long / 10 mm mesh seine net. About 200 animals were collected and transported to the MBRC aquarium service room inside plastic bags where they have been stocked into two 1 m3 fiberglass tanks for a two-week acclimatisation period. Seawater is replaced once every day and there is constant aeration. 2.2 Initial Mortality It is usual when wild fish are caught and stocked in tanks for at least a few of them die due to stress, injuries, and/or feeding problems. In the present instance only about ten fish died during the first week of captivity, mainly because of presence of parasites (Crustacea Isopodae) and consequent wounds inside their mouths. Parasites are quite common and the fishes have been preventively treated with potassium permanganate (20 mg/liter sea water during one hour). The treatment was not effective for adult Isopodida and it appeared that longer treatment with a higher concentration of the chemical is harmful for the fry. 2.3 Feeding Four specimens of Trachinotus sp. were preserved with formaline immediately after capture in order to study their stomach content and get information on their natural diet. It was evident that most of the ingested food was composed of small crustacea with a few small snails. During the acclimatisation period, fry were fed on live Artemia sp. and Daphnia sp. as well as with minced fish. After three weeks, they received pellets twice a day (starter for sea-bream). The quantity of pellets given to the fish is calculated according to the manufacturer's table and water temperature 2.4 Grading After a one month period of acclimatisation the animals were graded into four size classes. Each class was stocked into a separate ! m3 fiberglass tank with open sea water circuit and permanent aeration. Further monitoring of the performance of the respective classes is now underway- 3. PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS Trachinotus fry kept in captivity seem to have a rapid growth rate. In another two months, the trial work should yield some indications of whether this species may hold possibilities for aquaculture purposes. Whatever the eventual outcome, the activity is already serving to provide an opportunity for members of the Aqua group to familiarise themselves with fry keeping techniques. VII. LIVE FEED PRODUCTION: ZOOPLANKTON Presented by M. AI Magsoudi MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group 1 INTRODUCTION There is little use of zooplankton as a live feed for fish in Libya, though Artemia sp. arc fed to decorative fish to some extent. With the prospect of aquaculture development on a wider scale, however, it is appropriate for national fisheries staff to be trained in zooplankton culture techniques. 2. WORK AT MBRC 2.1 Identification of Libyan Species of Artemia Artemia sp., the most widely used live feed in aquaculture production, occurs naturally in different places in Libya, especially along the coast (Abu Kamash, Tawargah and El-Kuwain Sebkha) and in salty lakes located in the Awbari region of the southern desert (Magsoudi and Vallet, 1994). No taxonomic work has yet been carried out on Artemia in Libya, although it is well known as traditional food and medicine in the desert. Specimens of various origins have been collected and sent for further study to the Artemia Reference Centre of the University of Ghent. Belgium. 2.2 Isolation of Local Strains of Artemia Specimens collected in three different sites (Abu Kamash. Tawargah, Awbari) have been cultivated in five-litre jars, being fed on Chlorella culture. The purpose of this work is to isolate pure strains of Artemia. 2.3 Comparison of Cyst 'Hatchability' Cysts have been collected in Abu Kamash Sebkha, which is the only Libyan site where Artemia is present and produces cysts. Their 'hatchability' has been compared some purchased from a Belgian commercial supplier. It appears that the hatching rate of the 'Abu Kamash brand' is not as good as the one of the commercial brand. Possible reasons for this are improper harvesting and cleaning methods and unsuitable storage conditions. 2.4 Production of Live Feed Artemia: a few nauplii and adults have been collected from Abu Kamash and from Tawargah Sebkha and from Awbari salt lakes. They have been cultivated in 1000 litre-tanks and fed with 'green water' (mainly Chlorella) produced by the Aqua component team for further use as fish feed at the MBRC. Rotifers: a pure strain of Brachionus plicatilis has been obtained from the Malta National Aquaculture Centre and cultivated in five-litre jars with Chlorella. They have been used to feed a few fish fry kept at the MBRC aquarium, and are being kept for further mass production to be used in the planned fish hatchery. Daphnia sp.: samples were collected from a Tajura salt marsh in 1986 and since been raised in an outside 5 m3 concrete tank. The production is used for feeding small fishes kept at the MBRC display aquarium. 3. CONCLUSION Continuous production of a few species of zooplankton is carried out on a routine basis at the MBRC in order to feed fishes grown in the display aquarium and experimental tanks. A few improvements to the production effort should be seen to, including: a) Cleanliness of the laboratory in order to avoid any possible contamination of the cultures by micro-organisms. b) Upgrading of the equipment for mass production. c) Installation of a special room for live feed production. VIII. PRODUCTION OF PHYTOPLANKTON FOR HATCHERY Presented by M. Tresh MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group 1 INTRODUCTION The first level of the marine food chain is constituted by micro-algae, which are the main feed for most of zooplankton. Phytoplankton is used in a hatchery as basic live feed for early stages of fish larvae. After a few days, larvae are switched to zooplankton (Rotifers, Daphnia sp. and Artemia sp.). It is however essential to produce various types of phytoplankton continuously in order to nourish different zooplankton as well, which are major components of fish and shrimp larvae diets before they can be fed on artificial pellets. The use of pure algae cultures to feed fish larvae is necessary in order to avoid poisonous species and parasites. Pure cultures of some species of algae are therefore produced in large quantities to cover the requirements of hatcheries. 2 WORK AT MBRC 2.1 Initial situation During the previous months members of the LIBFISH Aqua Working Group have been cultivating phytoplankton inside 1,000 I fiberglass tanks. Further to microscopic examination, it appeared that this 'green water' contained several species of algae. 2.2 Requirements Pure culture of phytoplankton is needed for the pilot hatchery programme being planned at the MBRC. 2.3 Isolation of Chlorella sp. Two litres of green water from the 1,000 litre fiberglass tank were transferred to the laboratory. The culture has been filtered with 50μ, plankton net. Then, 10ml of this filtered green water was introduced within a 1 litre bottle and mixed up with cultivation media at room temperature. The bottle was kept in sunlight. After one week, the culture was microscopically examined and it was found that most of the algae present were of Chlorella sp., e.g. C. nitzchia, C. navicula, and C. punnularia. The cultivation medium was then transferred into one 2 litre bottle and one 3 litre bottle. The medium was maintained at room temperature in natural sunlight and subjected to forced aeration for one week, during which a good growth was observed. Serial dilution cultures were done to isolate Chlorella sp. Four dilution steps with five parallels had to be done for each sample, as shown in the accompanying figure. Figure VIII/1. Isolation of Chlorella sp.

The steps of dilution are thus: a) A 10ml-sample is taken and 1ml of it is mixed with 9ml media. → first dilution b) From the last test tube 1ml is inoculated to each of five test tubes. → 2nd dilution 10"1 c) This step is repeated to produce the next dilution, → 3rd dilution 10"2 d) and the final dilution. → 4th dilution 10"3 All serial dilution cultures were incubated at room temperature with aeration and fluorescent light for one week and were then examined microscopically. 2.4 Results a) In the first dilution all test tubes contain mixed culture. b) In the second dilution, one test tube contained pure Chlorella sp. c) In the third dilution, four test tubes contained pure Chlorella sp. d) In the fourth dilution, three test tubes were with pure Chlorella sp. 3. CONCLUSION The exercise described above allowed the recovery of pure Chlorella sp. strain from a mixed culture. Pure strains of phytoplankton should be kept for long periods in a special lab, annexed to the hatchery. Whenever necessary, they can be used to produce large cultures to cover the needs of the hatchery. IX. PRODUCTION OF PELLETED FISH FEED Presented by S. El-Ajnaf MBRC/LIBF1SH Aqua Component Group 1. INTRODUCTION As part of its concern with aquaculture development potential in Libya the Project LIBFISH team is attempting to determine the actual or possible availability of suitable fish feed. Eventually it is intended to carry out quality evaluation trials on local feed and to investigate possibilities of producing alternative formulations using raw materials that are ready to hand. 2. SURVEY OF FEED INDUSTRY 2.1 Objectives In order to obtain the needed information a survey of the national animal feed industry has been organised. Its purpose is: a) to determine the capacity of the animal feed industry; b) to find out the type and source of raw material locally available for diet formulation; and c) to determine the economical viability of manufacturing fish feed in the country. 2.2 Survey Methodology A brief questionnaire has been prepared in order to collect background information from each of the country's animal feed companies. This questionnaire, shown as Attachment IX/1, will be sent to each of the companies. The MBRC feed specialist will then follow up with a visit to the companies in order to finalise the collection of information in cooperation with their respective technical managements. 3. TRIAL WORK AT MBRC 3.1 Objectives Trial work is being planned at the MBRC in order to: a) test the quality of various types of feed available on the local market; b) improve existing formulae; c) prepare new formulae, using local feed ingredients; and d) evaluate the economical viability of locally prepared feed. 3.2 Equipment The execution of the trial work requires the installation of specialised equipment. The first step should be the construction of a pilot feed production unit. The main equipment is already available (hammer mill and meat grinder to be used as pelletizer). A suitable space for operations has been allocated to the feed specialist and should be modified soon according to drawings prepared for this purpose. Modifications include electrical wiring, water piping and sinks, wall and floor coverings, and installation of the new machines. 4. CONCLUSION Availability of high quality feed is essential for the development of aquaculture. Because total reliance on imported feed is likely to prove very expensive, possibilities of local production should be explored and the development of the feed industry planned accordingly. Attachment IX/1 LIB/88/009—GCP/LIB/021/IsDB Secretariat of Marine Wealth TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN Marine Biology Research Centre FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT Tajura

SURVEY OF ANIMAL FEED INDUSTRY Purpose of the survey: The MBRC and the SMW in connection with the FAO Project LIBFISH are now working on the development of aquaculture in Libya. The purpose of this questionnaire is to determine existing and potential fish feed production capacity in the country. Please assist us by providing the information requested.

1. PLANT/FACTORY QUESTIONINAIRE Name of the 1.1 : Date Completed: factory Location of the 1.2 : Enumerator: factory Year 1.3 : established 1.4 Continuous operation since then? □ Yes □ No If ‘No’ Please explain:

1.5 Type of production □ Animal Feeds (Specify): □ GrainFood Products (Specify): 1.6 Equipment and capacity:

Type of Equipment Present Capacity (Circle one) (Tons/hour) Dryer No Yes Mill No Yes Pelletizer No Yes Dispenser (to fill up bags) No Yes Loader (to load vehicles) No Yes Other (specify) Other (specify) Other (specify)

1.7 Transport capacity: Type of Quantity Maximum Load Available for (Check as appropriate) Vehicle Raw Material Supply Final Product Delivery Pick-up Open Truck Closed Truck

2. Raw Materials used: Type of feed Quantity/Year Normal Origin Current Chemical Ingredient ingredient Price/Ton Analysis? Quality Control? Yes No Yes No

3. Feed production: Please give details on the production of your factory; Type of Feed Quantity Current Season of Chemical Quality Produced/Year Price/Ton Production Analysis Control (Specify unit) Yes No Yes No

3.1 Have you prepared any type of fish feed in the past? □ Yes □ No If ‘Yes’, please specify:↓

Species Quantity Produced Price/ton Diet Chemical Formulae Analysis Available? Available? Sea Bass Yes No Yes No Sea Bream Yes No Yes No Mullet Yes No Yes No Shrimp Yes No Yes No Tilapia Yes No Yes No Carp Yes No Yes No Other: Other:

4 By—products: Type of Quantity Moral Current Chemical Quality Byproduct Available/Year Origin/Source Price/Ton Analysis Control Yes No Yes No

5. Waste: Do you have any final product without any use, which has to be □ □ Yes disposed of? No If ‘Yes’, please explain:↓

X. COASTAL AQUACULTURE SITE SELECTION Presented by D. Hadoud MBRC/LIBFISH Aqua Component Group 1. INTRODUCTION Various sites along the coastline have been studied over past years by Libyan scientists (benthos, plankton, sedimentology, hydrology). Since a comprehensive survey is a lengthy exercise and since needless duplication of work should be avoided, the LIBFISH/MBRC site selection group has been requested to review all the existing documents and records relevant to coastal aquaculture development. 2. EXISTING STUDIES From 1975 to 1991 more than 40 sites are known to have been studied by scientists from MBRC, Aquaculture Institute (Khoms), and El Fatah University. They include lagoons, gulfs, cove beaches, salt marches, landing sites, and wadis. Unfortunately many of the studies have not been published or otherwise issued as working papers and thus are not readily available as sources of information. For Libyan lagoons a primary reference document remains that compiled by Kerambrun as a UNESCO publication (Kerambrun, 1986), along with the MBRC Bulletin devoted to the Farwa Lagoon (1982). 3. DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS Coastal aquaculture projects have been developed in some sites that have been judged to be suitable, but they have remained quite limited in number and scope. The only active sites at the present time are: a) Ain El Ghazalah, a large cove setting between Derna and Tobruk in the east, where cage culture of sea-bass, sea-bream, and mullet is attempted, along with some mussel culture); and b) Ain Kaam Farm near Khoms, where there is a shrimp hatchery and some cage culture of Tilapia. Attempts have been made in the past without notable success to use the Farwa lagoon for mussel culture, and various fresh water reservoirs for stocking with carps, catfish and Tilapia. 3 CONCLUSION Although a large amount of information already exists on the Libyan coastline which could be extremely useful for the execution of aquaculture site selection work, much of it has never been presented in a readily usable form. A major effort is therefore required to organise this information into a common data base for easy storage and retrieval by technical personnel and planners. It would then be possible to carry out a complete inventory of available information and, in cases where there is a genuine lack, organise additional data collection through field trips. At that point a comprehensive data review would provide the basis both for selecting suitable sites and for deciding on the most appropriate aquaculture methods to employ. XI. GIS AND AQUACULTURE SITE SELECTION Presented by A. A. Arara & 0. Dreza Bironi Remote Sensing Centre 1. INTRODUCTION A Geographical Information System (GIS) is a computer-based approach to the storage, manipulation, analysis, and output of geographic information. The main objective of GIS work for LIBFISH is to allow easy storage and treatment of data collected during the execution of Project activities, with an initial concentration on selection of suitable sites for aquaculturc development. Organising such a GIS requires a great deal of effort and participation of many other institutions and departments. The data collection and accumulation phase is the most difficult and time-consuming period in the establishment of any GIS, and requires an efficient data collection system. To justify their high cost, GIS activities should be extended to other applications such as development planning of the coastal zone and environmental studies. 2. PROPOSAL FOR THE ORGANISATION OF A GIS The working group has proposed the general structure of the LIBFISH GIS for preliminary aquaculture site selection purposes. Data pertaining to particular sites should be collected from many sources are then stored on tables. Relations should then be established between the tables for further analysis and processing (Figure IX/1). A few forms have already been filled out using data from known sites (see examples, Attachment XI/1). The purpose of this pilot work is to test the forms and to modify them as necessary. At the same time the forms are being distributed to various Project and MBRC experts for review and comment. When the forms are finalised, a data collection group should be formed to carry on with the work. After the data are entered into the computer, analysis can proceed on the basis of site selection requirements. 3. CONCLUSION In brief, data collection and organisation is an essential task for a GIS setup. A database should be organised as soon as possible in order to facilitate aquaculture site selection work. Whilst a GIS may not be an absolute requirement for such work, it is a suitable first application point and should prove easy to build upon, so that it becomes part of a wider GIS programme integrating a variety of activities and purposes. Figure XI/1

Attachment XI/1. Example Data Collection Forms: Libyan Aquaculture Site Database (Nov-Dec. 1994)

T1: Site Identification

Site-no Site-name Site-type Location Remarks Long. Lat.

T2: Water Quality

Temperature Salinity Oxygen Colour Turbidity Water Water circulation Remarks source Max. Min. Exist (.....)

-----°C -----°C ------g/l --.--mg/l --,--m Docs not Exist (.....)

T3: Bathymetric Data

Depth Currents Surface-type Waves Remarks Max. Min. Direction Speed -----m -----m ------Deg -----m/sec Soft ( )

Hard( )

T4: Topographical Date

Height Wind Soil-type code Land-use code Drainage Facility Remarks Max. Min. -----m -----m -----Deg

T5: Pollution

Type1 - Industrial Type2 - Urban Type3 - Agriculture Type4 - Petroleum Remarks Liquid ( ) ...... Sewage ( ) ...... Pesticides ( ) ...... Factories ( ) ...... Solid ( ) ...... Garbage( ) ...... Fertilizers ( ) ...... Ships ( ) ...... Solid Waste ( ) ......

T6: Soil Quality

Soil-type Consistency Particle size analysis Remarks Rock Soft: Water proof ( ) Permeability ( )

T7: Land Use

Land-unit area Cover Owner code Potential Dev. Remarks

T8: Utility- Roads:

Road-No. Road-type Length Width Const. Date Distance from site Remarks meters

Electricity

Line-No. Voltage Distance from site Remarks ...... Km

Water

Pipe - No. Radiusus Water Quality Water source type Distance from site Remarks

Public Sewage:

Location Volume per day Distance from site Remarks Long. Lat.

T9: Resource Marketing

Market-No. Distance from Market Name Location Statistics Range of Remarks site request Long. Lat...... km ...... km ...... km XII. CLOSING REMARKS By Dr. J. Eric Reynolds LIBFISH Project Manager Distinguished Guests, Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen: Aquaculture-related activities are central to the fulfillment of Project LIBFISH objectives, and an exceedingly ambitious programme of work was laid out in the original Project formulation. Unfortunately progress towards the achievement of Aquaculture- related outputs lagged to some extent until March 1994, owing mainly to delays in crucial rehabilitation work on MBRC facilities and to difficulties in recruiting a Senior Aquaculture Advisor to serve on the FAO team. This situation was resolved through consultations between officials of SMW/MBRC, FAO, UNDP and Project officials which resulted in an agreement under which the former Project Manager/Aquaculture Advisor would assume fulltime duties as Senior Aquaculture Advisor. A new workplan for the Aquaculture component was drafted in March 1994 and reviewed first in May 1994 in a meeting involving the PM, Aquaculture Advisor, and National Project Coordinator, and again in June 1994 in a more general meeting involving Project, MBRC, and Aquaculture Institute (AI) officials. A problem is that the original timeframe for the Aquaculture component activities is 30 months, whereas it is only possible to accomodate 12 months within the remaining Project budget. The original plan also made provision for a total of 12 months' worth of specialist consultant time for providing technical backstopping to the work programme. Virtually all of this allocation has also fallen victim to budget constraints. Under the circumstances it was decided to draft the new workplan in terms of an initial 12 month phase, with a recommended follow-on phase to remain contingent upon extension and the availability of funding. Full-scale establishment and operation of pilot aquaculture facilities at the MBRC (Outputs 2.2, 2.3, & 2.4 refer) have been identified as activities for the follow-on phase, except that, after consultation with Aquaculture Institute colleagues, efforts will be made to support fish hatchery development activities in Khoms (Ain Kaam Farm) as much as possible in the initial 12 month phase. The counterpart team for the Aquaculture component also was strengthened considerably and is now comprised of 24 MBRC and AI personnel serving on a full-time or part-time basis. With the new programme now well underway, and with the addition of new national counterpart personnel including several individuals who are willing to devote themselves and not shy away from the physical and mental effort involved, we are witnessing a significant acceleration of activities under the Aquaculture component. The present workshop, which is number fourteen in the series of technical training/review workshop activities that has been organised in association with Project LIBFISH, provides one strong proof of this welcome development. I hope that all participants have found the proceedings to be useful and instructive, and should like to thank everybody for their attendance. Particular thanks are due to Drs. F. Vallet and D.S. Dawid for their efforts in making this workshop possible, and to Messrs. N. Elkebir, A. Abu Issa, G. Paulose, and M. Hamada for their assistance in various preparatory arrangements. We owe a special vote of gratitude to Dr. Agius for his visit here and for sharing with us the benefits of his extensive practical experience in the field. I hope that his visit marks the beginnings of much more intensive and frequent collaboration between the Malta National Aquaculture Institute and the MBRC. Thank you all very much.

XIII. REFERENCES CITED Fituri A. and F. Vallet. 'Investigation of Ain Kaam farm shrimp mortality: preliminary findings. 1994 LIBFISH Technical Briefing Notes, No. 19. Tripoli/Rome, FAO. FI: DP/LIB/88/009 & FI:GCP/LIB/021/lsDB. Kerambrun, P., 'Coastal lagoons along the Southern Mediterranean coast.' UNESCO Report in Marine 1986 Science, No.34. UNESCO, Paris. Marine. Research Centre, Tripoli. 'Environmental conditions of the Farwa Lagoon during 1981.' Bull. Mar. 1982 Res. Centre. Tripoli, Libya, No. 3. Magsoudi M. and F. Vallet'MEDRAP II Artemia Workshop (Libya) & Southern salt lakes mission.' 1994 LIBFISH Technical Briefing Notes, No. 12. Tripoli/Rome, FAO. FI: DP/LIB/88/009 & FI: GCP/LIB/021/IsDB Meaden, G.J. 'Background notes and prospects for a Libyan marine fisheries Geographical Information 1994 System.' LIBFISH Technical Briefing Notes. No. 3. Tripoli/Rome, FAO. FI: DP/LIB/88/009& FI:GCP/LIB/021/IsDB. Reynolds, J.E and Dawid, D.S. 'Project Performance Evaluation Reports (Nov. 1993; June, Sept. & Dec. 1995 1994).' LIBFISH Field Documents, No. 7. Tripoli/Rome, FAO. FI: DP/LIB/88/009 & FI:GCP/LIB/021/IsDB. (Forthcoming). Sindermann, Carl J. & Donald V. Lightner. Disease diagnosis and control in North American 1989 marine aquaculture. Elsevier, Amsterdam. Vallet. F. 'Proposals For MBRC aquaculture facility rehabilitation.' LIBFISH Technical Briefing Notes, 1994a No. 10. Tripoli/Rome, FAO. FI: DP/LIB/88/009 & FI: GCP/LIB/021/IsDB. Vallet, F. 'Ponds and raceways: Proposals for small-scale model fish farms.' LIBFISH Technical Briefing 1994b Notes. No. 18. Tripoli/Rome, FAO. FI: DP/LIB/88/009 & FI: GCP/LIB/021/IsDB. ANNEX I LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP & SITE VISIT TIMETABLE 24 - 30 NOVEMBER 1994 LIBFISH AQUACULTURE WORKSHOP 24-30. 11.94 -- TIMETABLE Venue Tajura (MBRC) Thu 24.11 1900 Travel Malta - Tripoli (Agius - Ferry) Fri 25.11 1000 Arr Tripoli (Agius) Visit Farwa Lagoon (Tentatives). Consultations Agius/Project staff Re 1500 Feb 1995 study tour.

Sat 26.11 Travel to Khoms, visit Aquaculture Institute & Ain Kaam Farm (Aguis/Vallet & 0800 Aqua Working Group). 1200 Return to MBRC / Lunch brak.

Session I. Fundamentals of Aquaculture (aguis) .

1430– * Introduction to aquaculture 1630 * Types of aquaculture systems.

* Cage culture * Offshore fish farming * Site assessment.

Sun 27.11

Session II. Stocking & Disease Management (Agius)

0900– * Stocking: species selection / densities. 1230

* Marine fingerling production. * Diseases (fish, shrimp, selfish), Prophylaxis /treatment.

1230– Lunch Brak 1430

Session III. Project Aquaculture Component Activities (Vallet & Aqua Working Group).

1430 – Review of Project Aquaculture component workplan and status of activities. 1530

1530 – Discussion 1600

Mon 28.11

Session IV. Administrative Aspects & Environmental Considerations (Agius)

0900– * Farm management, staff recruitment / training. 1230

* Legal & Financial aspects. * Environmental considerations and impact assessment,

1230– Lunch Break 1430

Session V. Round Table Discussion (All Participants).

1430– Question/Comments/Discussion. 1630

0900– Executive Briefing for senior SMW/AI/MBRC Administrative and Technical Tue 29.11 1100 officials. 1100– Discussions / Consultation on possible future collaboration between Libya and

1230 Malta Fisheries & Aquaculture agencies.

1230– Lunch break 1430

1430– Discussions/Consultations with MBRC/ Project staff. Finalise arrangements

1630 for Feb 1995 study tour.

ANNEX 2 LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP SESSIONS, 26 - 28 NOVEMBER 1994

ANNEX 3 LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP PARTICIPANTS, 26 - 28 NOVEMBER 1994 Sessions No. Name Position/Institution attended 1. D. S. Dawid General Director, MBRC. I 2. J.E. Reynolds Project Manager, FAO / LIBFISH I,V 3. Abdulbaset Abu Issa MBRC Chemistry Section. I, II, III 4, Siddiq El-Ajnaf MBRC Fisheries & Aquaculture Section. I, II, III. IV, V 5. Salah Gashout Head, MBRC Scientific and Research Dept. I, II, IV 6. M. Lamboeuf Fishery Biologist/Statistician, FAO / LIBFISH I,V 7. Abdelhakim Nafathi General Institute for Aquacultre Dev. I, IV, V Mohamed Badr Eddin 8, Aquaculture Projects I, II, III, IV, V Sagr 9. Rabia Zughdani Lab. Tech. MBRC I,II, IV 10. Fathia M. Thleyai Lab. Tech. MBRC I, II, IV 11. Zienab Bu Aesha Lab. Tech. MBRC I 12. Rabia El Sherif Researcher, MBRC I, II, III, IV, V 13. Khariah Ben Taleb Researcher, MBRC I, II, III, V 14. Fathi El Kiesh MBRC I, II, III, IV, V 15. Hadi Abushagour MBRC Plankton Section. I, II, III, IV, V 16. Aribi O. Khatali Chief, MBRC Chemistry Section. I, V 17. Mohamed Enbayah MBRC Fisheries & Aquaculture Section. I, II, III, IV, V 18. Samiha Hashad MBRC I, II, III, IV 19. Ibtisam Abu Ennour MBRC I, II, III, IV 20. Zohra Dawas MBRC I 21. Omar Dreza Engineer, Biruni Centre I, III 22. Ahmad Araara Engineer, Biruni Centre I, II, III, IV 23. Ahmed Amer Researcher MBRC Chemistry Section. I, III, V 24. Dau A. Hadoud Chief, MBRC Benthos Section. I, II, III, IV, V 25. Hassan El Ghibli MBRC Fisheries & Aquaculture Section. I, II, III, IV, V 26. Mohamed 0. El Magsudi MBRC Plankton Section. I, II, III, IV V 27. Hisham Gmati Researcher, MBRC I, II, III, IV, V 28. Akram Al Turkey Researcher, MBRC I, II, III, IV, V 29. Naser El Kebir Researcher, MBRC I, II, III, IV, V 30. Ali Fituri Veterinarian, MBRC I, II, III, V 31. Mohamed A. Tresh Researcher, MBRC Plankton Section. I, II, III, IV, V 32. Ramadan Abudulbari Researcher, MBRC Chemistry Section. I, II, III, IV, V 33. A.F.Medina Pizzali FAO/LIBFISH I,V 34. Ibrahim Ezzayani Researcher, MBRC I, V 35. F. Vallet FAO/LIBFISH I, II, V 36. Mohamed S. Giama Researcher, MBRC Fishery Section. II 37. Ibrahim 0. Barbash Committee Member, Aquaculture Projects II, IV 38. Mohamed A. Ragig Aquaria Tech., MBRC II, III, IV, V 39. Abdelmawla A. Hassan Student, Science Faculty II 40. Abdelmawla H. Ettaieb Student, Science Faculty II 41. Hana M. Gadrab MBRC IV 42. Usama Dreibika Researcher, MBRC Chemistry Section IV, V 43. Ahmed Abu Khadir Researcher, MBRC IV 44. Abdel Fattah Mgasbi Engineer, Aquaculture Institure IV

ANNEX 4 TERMS OF REFERENCE, LIBFISH AQUA WORKSHOP AND SITE VISIT MISSION (AGIUS), 24 - 30 NOVEMBER 1994 During this mission, the consultant should, in close cooperation with LIBFISH Project staff and with the direct support of the Sn. Aquaculture advisor: (i) Finalise the programme of training in fish hatchery techniques to he organised in Malta next February. (ii) Provide training lectures to MBRC and SMW staff on fundamentals of aquaculture as per proposed programme. (iii) Visit the Aquaculture Institute and the Ain Kaam fish farm to inspect facilities and review management practices and submit recommendations for - Fish shrimp disease prevention - Broodstock keeping. (iv) Hold meetings with relevant SMW, Aquaculture Institute and MBRC officials to develop a programme of cooperation between Libya and Malta in the field of aquaculture. ANNEX 5 NOTES OF FIELD VISITS, LIBFISH AQUA COMPONENT MISSION (AGIUS), 24 - 30 NOVEMBER 1994* 1. MARINE BIOLOGY RESEARCH CENTRE, TAJURA 1.1 General Observations The Centre is superbly located on the coast on very flat ground only a few metres above sea level. This is a very spacious building with considerable potential for aquaculture research and development. A reasonably well stocked reference library is also maintained. It seems that there have been several attempts in the past to establish an on-going research programme in aquaculture but little long-term achievement has been realised. Currently the LIBFISH Project is trying very hard to reinvigorate the Centre's research and technical programme, including that related to aquaculture. There is interest in working on new species (i.e. species other than sea bass and sea bream whose spawning and culture technology is established on a commercial scale) through capture of wild fry and nursing them in fibreglass tanks. Small scale live food production has also been initiated. 1.2 Problems Noted The Centre suffers from several serious shortcomings that should be urgently addressed if effective research and technical work in aquaculture is to be carried out. 1.2.1 Water supply The main sea water supply system is totally defunct. In any case the system was designed for an experimental marine biology station and if serious aquaculture work is to be undertaken a system with a much higher capacity of daily sea water delivery should be installed. A complete new system of pumps, aeration system etc, is needed including a more modern, easy to dismantle plumbing system. The latter would enable regular cleaning, disinfection etc. Refurbishing the existing system is simply not recommended. Indeed it may cost more than installing a new system and be less efficient. The water intake is far from adequate. A dual 20 cm pipeline going out to at least 8 to 10 metres depth needs to be installed. This would ensure the drawing of good quality water even in rough sea conditions when turbid water could be drawn unless the inlet is well sited. Thought should be given to drill some boreholes between the MBRC building and the shore. This would give sea water with constant temperature which would be very useful for hatchery and other operations requiring warmer waters in the winter months and cooler water in the summer months. Borehole water there should have a year-round constant temperature of 20°C. The present recycling system needs redesigning. A central aeration system has to be installed. Water and air supply are vital and these must be available round-the- clock in considerable quantities. The concept is therefore quite different from that of a marine biology station where a few hours of pumping daily and subsequent re-use is normally sufficient. * Based on notes prepared by Dr. C. Agius, Director, National Aquaculture Centre, Malta. Consequently the pumping system should have adequate stand-by pump capacity as well as a stand-by power generator for when electricity fails. A system of alarms and temperature / oxygen sensors should also be fitted in strategic points in the system to warn of pump failure and sudden changes in temperature or drop in oxygen levels. 1.2.2 Rearing and laboratory facilities The indoor area available for animal keeping should be split into fisheries/ aquaculture activities and activities in all other areas of marine biology. 1.2.3 Hatchery and holding installations The mainstay of the aquaculture activities should be a marine hatchery with a capacity of production of around 200,000 sea bass and sea bream fingerlings annually. This should include all the necessary components, i.e. broodstock, live food production, larval rearing and nursery facilities and should be managed and operated on a semi- commercial basis in order to act as a training ground for personnel in a spectrum of disciplines, i.e. technical, managerial, etc. It would also be used for various aspects of research and development work particularly in the field of new species with potential for commercial exploitation in Libya. Other installations should include a number of fish holding systems in order to enable various research projects to be carried out, e.g. nutrition experiments, disease prevention work, etc. The running of a hatchery at this high level of activity will ensure the continued availability of live feed for experimenting with the various kinds of marine species. 1.2.4 Laboratories Most of the basic equipment seems to be available but improvements are needed particularly in maintenance, prompt provision of consumables and updating staff on modern analytical / diagnostic techniques. There is a critical need to develop laboratory technological expertise / strengths in key areas of aquaculture, notably fish nutrition, reproduction and pathology. 1.3 Human Resources Direction and motivation have to be considerably improved if the output by the scientific and technical staff is to reach a desirable level. It appears that although a number of MBRC senior staff have completed advanced degree studies either within Libya or abroad, they have since spent a considerable number of years inactively rooted to their desks, and have lost touch with the rapid developments that Mediterranean marine aquaculture has achieved in the last decade. Younger staff need to be encouraged and given a motivation to pursue actively their careers in aquaculture. There is a fundamental need to change the attitude of the traditional research marine biologist into one of a blend between pure and applied research which sees the end product in a semi- or fully commercial application of the laboratory research, 2. AIN KAAM, KHOMS Ain Kaam Farm is administered by the Aquaculture Institute and has terms of reference that fully commit its activities towards the development of the aquaculture industry. Many of the fundamental points discussed for MBRC apply for Ain Kaam. The farm should however engage in production on a larger scale, at the same time being provided with technological improvements emanating from what should be a more research-oriented MBRC. Ain Kaam should aim to develop a marine hatchery facility capable of producing 1 million sea bass/sea bream fingerlings per annum with associated broodstock facilities, live feed production, larval rearing, and nursery facilities. The facilities should be flexible enough to cater for research into new species of commercial potential for the Mediterranean. Other aquaculture facilities should include semi-commercial model systems of culture of species with potential for Libya. Examples include shrimp farming and tilapia culture. The existing hatchery facility, aquarium room and outdoor ponds need complete modernisation and considerable expansion. A new water supply and dram system is needed which should be designed to accommodate imminent and future demands. A new central aeration system as well as new electrical and electronic alarm systems are essential. 3. PROJECT EXECUTION 3.1 General strategy The suggestions made here require very substantial investment in time and financial resources and it is recommended that an overall strategy is first adopted as outlined above. The next stage would be to prioritise requirements and execute them following the drawing up of a detailed report inclusive of the minute technical details for each particular job. In this way whilst the work is done in a piecemeal way, the puzzle will come together in the end to give a functional project. Concomitantly the human resource sector is also developed to the required standard to enable it run the project efficiently. 3.2 Short-term objectives As well as the long term objectives there are a number of short term objectives that would complete both any long term plans and the LIBFISH Project which is coming up for review in the very near future. These include: a) Training of personnel in fish hatchery techniques; b) Provision of stock cultures of live food; c) Provision of one-day old larvae of sea bream to gain experience with handling them; d) Possibly provision of some brood fish to be self-sufficient in egg / larval procurement; e) Training of personnel in fish pathology and possibly fish nutrition; f) Small-scale refurbishment to accommodate the foregoing short-term requirements. The latter point has to be tackled with extreme care as they could prove very complicated and costly and it may be worthwhile to incorporate the long term requirements straight away in order to avoid duplication of effort and expense. This would apply particularly to the water supply and recirculation system. 4. FARWA LAGOON 4.1 Current Status Farwa Lagoon was visited in order to evaluate its suitability for supporting fish farming activities. Lagoons are generally speaking very interesting ecosystems, being highly productive and important nursery grounds for many species. They are however also very fragile environments and human intervention can have pronounced irreversible effects on them. Farwa Lagoon is extremely shallow and the marine flora and fauna has already been stressed by a number of factors. The most noteworthy would appear to be: a) The chemical plant at the eastern end; b) The increased human population on its shores consequent upon increased employment opportunities created by the chemical plant; this could lead to increased incidence of sewage outflows; c) The blocking of the eastern connection with the open sea; d) Continuous dredging that increases the level of suspended matter in the water, with its negative effects on all forms of life. e) Overfishing. 4.2 Recommendations Recommended action in the first instance would be to minimise the above impacts and restore water circulation exactly back to its original state. It is doubtful that current efforts to open to new connection will be a satisfactory substitute. Indeed it is if anything causing further damage by siltation, as already explained. Once restored to its original state the lagoon could be used for extensive-type aquaculture activities to minimise ecosystem disturbance. The use of cages for any type of intensive or even semi-intensive culture should not even be considered as the topography and hydrodynamics of the lagoon would not support (biologically that is) such an activity. The risks of algal blooms which usually result in total mortalities would be very high. Whether the utilisation of the lagoon on an extensive basis would be economically justifiable needs to be very carefully considered. ANNEX 6 LIBFISH AQUACULTURE WORKSHOP, EXECUTIVE BRIEFING LIB/88/009--TECHNIICAL ASSISTANCE IN FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT— GCP/LIB/021/IsDB.

NOTE-TO-FILE

REF: DP 9/10 4 - LIBFISH 95/115 DATE: 5 December 1994 ORIGINATOR: F. Vallet, Sen Aquacukture Specialist SUBJECT: LIBFISH Aquaculture Workshop, Executive briefing, 29/11/94 Executive Briefing for senior SMW/AI/MBRC Administrative and Technical officials.Meeting held at MBRC on 29 November 1994,10.45. Purpose of the meeting: to discuss Prof. Agius' findings and recommendations. Agenda: 1- Prof. Agius' technical remarks and advice. 2- Technical cooperation with Malta. Participants: Prof. C. Agius, FAO Consultant, Head of Malta NAC. Dr. D.S. Dawid, MBRC Director General. S. Gashut, MBRC. N. El Kebir, MBRC (on study leave to NAC, Malta). Eng. Bashir R. Abujnah, Secretary of Adm. Committee for Aquac. Dev. Institute. Mohamed I. Ezorgani, AI. Mugasbi Abdulfattah, AI. Ibrahim Barbash, AI. Dr. E. Reynolds, LIBFISH Project Manager. Dr. F. Vallet, LIBFISH Sen. Aquaculture Specialist. No SMW Representative attended the meeting. POINTS OF DISCUSSION 1) Professor Agius thanked the participants for the good organization of both his visit and the workshop. He then made the following remarks. 2) There is tremendous potential for aquaculture in Libya. Infrastructure already exists at MBRC and AI, through it has to be improved. However, Libyan officials should answer fundamental questions: (i) why develop aquaculture and what are the objectives? (ii) which type of aquaculture is needed? 3) Lagoons There are few lagoons in Libya and it is essential to use them properly. The potential for aquaculturc in lagoons is limited. Industrial operations inside lagoons are not really suitable. Extensive or semi-intensive farming only is possible, not more. There are risks in using lagoons at intensive levels. In lagoons, conditions of: salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen can be extreme and this creates limiting factors. Furthermore, intensive systems produce wastes which cannot be assimilated by the natural system due to environmental constraints. Thus, the major risks in lagoons are red tides due to high organic load and change of temperature. (Dr. Dawid stated that such red tides occur from time to time in Farwa lagoon where no farming system yet exists). Lagoons should be protected from pollution. For instance, Farwa lagoon is affected by the chemical plant, the closure of the natural eastern communication with the sea and, finally, by the increase of the surrounding population. If water quality deteriorates, Posidonia grass will disappear and the lagoon will die. A new canal is being dug between the lagoon and the sea, but the site has not been properly selected and the canal itself will be filled up by sand shortly after its completion. It is also necessary to study the economical aspect of the development of a lagoon. How much can the system produce and at which cost? After answering this question, it will be realized that one single offshore cage can produce more than Farwa Lagoon. 4) MBRC and Ain Kaam Farm These two organizations should have a complementary programme: • MBRC is more oriented towards research and all the scientific work should be done here. • Ain Kaam is more practical and should be oriented towards extension and cooperative programmes with industry. One major change in the operation of the existing aquaculture facilities should be accepted: for fish farming, continuous water supply is necessary, mainly to keep constant temperature. A proper pumping system is essential. It is important to have both a borehole providing water at constant temperature all year round and a pipeline in the sea. Without a proper water system, any aquaculture farm is virtually certain to collapse. Future programme: • MBRC: with assistance through a project, main objectives should be (i) aquaculture technology, (ii) pathology, (iii) new species (Sea bass/bream have already been established at an industrial level in many countries and therefore it is necessary to experiment on different new species) and (iv) training. • Ain Kaam: should be a pilot unit aimed at demonstrating aquaculture techniques for industry operators and investors. At the farm, it is important to have a high level of hygiene and maintenance. Furthermore, the electrical system is dangerous and should be replaced. The floor must be improved. A new building - or an extension of the actual one - is needed to operate at a reasonable scale. 5) Staff and training Aquaculture involves dealing with livestock. It requires constant attention and dedicated people. There is no need for very highly educated people who could be frustrated by permanently executing manual work. Requirements are mainly of secondary school level with good practical skills. A few graduates are needed for research, pathology and study of new species. During my mission, I have seen many different people. Some seem to be very keen, others not so dedicated. It is essential to identify young active people and then to train them in one specialty (live feed or hatchery or nursery). 6) Development If the country is to develop industrial aquaculture, it should (i) strengthen on-going activities at MBRC and Ain Kaam, and then (ii) go to large-scale aquacullure, principally offshore cages. You have to decide on priorities: it is impossible to do everything. For instance, you could start by producing Tilapia, not for market (very limited for this fish in Libya), but for training people in producing fish. A second step is to import fingerling of sea bass/bream and grow them. This is relatively easy for technicians who have already produced Tilapia. Finally, you are in a position to build and operate a hatchery. At each step of the execution, you have to concentrate on one prioritary subject. The programme as it now exists is not specific enough and far too ambitious. Again, I repeat that the pumping system is the priority number one. It is necessary to have one realistic objective, achieve it, then move to another subject. You should initiate cooperation with the industrial sector. A lot of mutual benefit and information will come out from such relation with practical operators. Industries can fund facilities and your staff can help in solving operational issues. In that way, you get research tools without spending money. Furthermore, it is necessary to integrate different complementary sectors (transport, building, mechanical industry, markets, etc) in order to build up an efficient industrial tool. 7) Cages The Libyan coast line is adequate for offshore cage culture. But sites should be selected in areas where a harbour is accessible by service boats. Inland facilities are required to operate cages: technical staff housing, stores for equipment and feed, workshop. A major issue to be concerned with in off-shore cage culture is security. CLOSING REMARKS: TECHNICAL COOPERATION. Dr. Dawid and Eng. Bujnah expressed thanks to Prof. Agius for visiting Libya and providing valuable information. They also thanked Dr. E. Reynolds and F. Vallet for the workshop. The AI Director B. Abujnah pointed out the lack of experience in aquaculture in Libya and expressed the need for more advice, practice, and training from the LIBFISH Project. He noted that Libya has no programme for developing offshore cage culture. Emphasis is given to inland fish farms because large areas are available. Rehabilitation of lagoons is also an important action. The main purpose of this orientation is to develop new human settlements in empty places. Prof. Agius thinks that this is a good idea but repeated that development of lagoons should be done carefully. It is not possible to get more than nature allows. Good offshore cage sites should be about 40 m deep, with a port and a research centre in nearby. It is important for Eng. Bujnah to visit Malta and get a firsthand idea of what of offshore cage culture involves. F. Vallet remarked that his team was hoping to provide a draft development plan before the end of the current Project. E. Reynolds observed that more more people from AI and SMW should attend workshops organised by the LIBFISH Project in order for these sessions to fulfill their intended purpose as opportunites for technical review and consultation between the various interests and agencies involved in national fisheries and aquaculture development. The meeting was over at 1300h. DISTRIBUTION COPIES: Agius -NAC Malta (Thru PM, pls frwd) Dawid -MBRC (Thru PM, pls frwd) Abujnaj -AI (Thru PM, pls frwd) DP 9/10.2 Vallet

Chrono

ANNEX 7 PROPOSED PROJECT LIBFISH AQUACULTURE TRAINING COURSE: FISH HATCHERY TECHNIQUES {Rev. 20.01.94) 1. Place: Malta National Aquaculture Centre Marsaxlokk. 2. Duration; Four (04) weeks. 3. Dates: Departure from Tripoli, Sat. 21/01/1995 First working day, Mon. 23/01/1995 Last working day, Fri. 17/02/1995 4. Participants:Six nominees from the MBRC and Aquaculture Institute, Khoms. 5. Accommodation will be arranged and settled by NAC Administration in a nearby pension or flat. 6. Subsistance allowance will be provided by NAC Administration at the beginning of the training (50%) and again after three weeks (50%), 7. Transport to NAC in the morning and back to residence in the evening will be provided by minibus.Forprivate trips, public buses are available. 8. Working English. Proficiency in English will be a requirement in the language: selection oftrainees. 9. Working days: From Saturday to Thursday; Fridays off. 10. Working hours: 07.30 to 12.30: Practical work 13.00 to 14.00: Practical work 14.00 to 16.00: Lectures 11. Attendance and Responsibilities: Trainees will be required to be present at the NAC during all working hours, and should be prepared to carry out all work they are asked to do. 12 Clothing: Trainees should come with their own working clothes and gumboots. 13. Curriculum: First week: general orientation to all NAC sections. Next three weeks: specialised work according to skills and preference.

a. Larval culture; b. Live food (Phytoplankton, Rotifers and Artemia); or c. Nursery and broodstock. 14. Reporting: A comprehensive report will be expected from each trainee on the work done during the course and on its applications to follow-up activity upon return to Libya.

LIBFISH TECHNICAL BRIEFING NOTES 01 Lamboeuf, M., A. Mujahid, & N. Elkebir. 'Reconnaissance survey of the artisanal fishing fleet of Libya 'TBN No. 1, April 1994. (En/Ar) 02 Bellec, O. 'Drydocking and refit of RV NOUR and voyage of vessel to Valetta, Malta.' TBN No. 2, April 1994.(En/Ar) 03 Meaden, G.J. 'Background notes and prospects for a Libyan marine fisheries Geographical Information System.' TBN No. 3, April 1994. (En) 04 Reynolds, J.E. & M. Lamboeuf. '1993 Libyan fisheries frame survey planning & preparation workshop 'TBN No. 4, April 1994. (En) 05 Medina Pizzali, A.F. 'Technical evaluation and recommendations for the Sabratah fish cannery.' TBN No. 5, April 1994. (En/Ar - Limited Distribution) 06 Reynolds, J.E. & M. Lamboeuf. '1993 Libyan fisheries frame survey: Data handling/dBase management workshop.' TBN No. 6, May 1994. (En) 07 Reynolds, J.E. 'Proceedings of the joint MBRC/FAO staff workshop on research training programme development (Tajura, 6 January 1994).' TBN No. 7, May 1994. (En/Ar) 08 Lamboeuf, M. 'Notes on the marine resources survey planning workshop (MBRC, Tajura, 31 January 1994).' TBN No. 8, May 1994. (En/Ar) 09 Medina Pizzali, A.F. 'Interim report on the national fish handling & processing facilities survey: Workshop proceedings (MBRC, Tajura, 26 March 1994).' TBN No. 9, May 1994. (En/Ar) 10 Vallet, F. 'Proposals for MBRC aquaculture facility rehabilitation.' TBN No. 10, May 1994. (En) 11 Reynolds, J.E., M. Lamboeuf, A. Ben Abdallah, A. Abukhader, R. Abdulbari, & A. Nafati. 'Preliminary findings of the 1993 Libyan marine fisheries frame survey: Workshop proceedings.'TBN No. 11, June 1994. (En/Ar) 12 Magsoudi, M. & F. Vallet (eds.) 'MEDRAP II Artemia Workshop (Libya) & Southern salt lakes mission.'TBN No. 12, July 1994. (En/Ar) 13 Lamboeuf, M., A. Ben Abdallah, J. Sutherland, &E. Anse. .'Libya trawl survey: Preliminary results of the first coverage.' TBN No. 13, July 1994. (En) 14 Lamboeuf, M. 'Calibration of SIMRAD EK500 scientific sounder -- RV NOUR .' TBN No. 14, July 1994. (En) 15 Meaden, G.J. & J.E. Reynolds. 'Establishing a marine fisheries GIS: the Libyan experience. 'TBN No. 15,Sept. 1994. (En) 16 Lamboeuf, M. & J.E. Reynolds. The fishing fleet of Libya: preliminary results of the 1993 frame survey.' TBN No. 16, Oct. 1994. (En) 17 Medina Pizzali, A.F., F. Vallet, & M. Magsoudi. 'Proposal for an integrated small- scale solar salt and brine shrimp production unit. 'TBN No. 17, Oct. 1994. (En) 18 Vallet, F. 'Ponds and raceways: Proposals for small-scale model fish farms.' 'TBN No. 18, Nov. 1994.(En/Ar) 19 Fituri, A. & F. Vallet. 'Investigation of Ain Kaam farm shrimp mortality: preliminary findings.' TBN No.19, Nov. 1994. (En/Ar - Restricted). 20 Lamboeuf, M. & Ben Abdallah. 'Libya trawl survey: Preliminary results of the second coverage' TBN No.20,Dec. 1994. (En) 21 Vallet, F. & J.E. Reynolds. (eds.) 'Review of aquaculture fundamentals & the LIBFISH Aqua component programme: Workshop proceedings.' TBN No. 21, Jan. 1995. (En). LIBFISH FIELD DOCUMENTS 01 Goanec, M. 'RV NOUR 1993-1994: Chief Engineer's report.' FD No. 1, June 1994. (En – Limited Distribution) 02 Reynolds, J.E., M. Lamboeuf, A. Ben Abdallah, A. Abukhader, R. Abdulbari, & A. Nafati. 'Libyan coastal fisheries: A report on the 1993 baseline survey results.' FD No. 2, July 1994. (En -- in prep.) 03 Ababouch, L., A.F. Medina Pizzali et al. 'Training workshop on fish handling and quality assurance (MBRC, Tajura, Oct. 1994).' FD No. 3, Dec. 1994 (En - in prep.) 04 Sutherland, J. 'RV NOUR 1993-1994: Captain/Masterfisher's report.' FD No. 4, Dec. 1994 (En-Limited Distribution) 05 Ansel, E. 'RV NOUR 1993-1994: Fishing technology.' FD No. 5, Dec. 1994 (En - Limited Distribution) For further information please contact: Project Manager, LIBFISH International Mail: Tajura Office: LIB/88/009 - GCP/LIB/021/IsDB Marine Biology Research Centre UNDP Tripoli P.O. Box 30830 Palais des Nations Tajura, LIBYA CH-1211 GENEVA 10 SWITZERLAND Tel + Fax: (218-21) 690002 Telex: 20523