A-Az399e.Pdf

Implementation of a Regional Fisheries Strategy For The Eastern-Southern Africa and India Ocean Region

Programme pour la mise en oeuvre d'une stratégie de pêche pour la region Afrique orientale-australe et Océan indien

THE FEASIBILITY OF AQUAPONICS IN MAURITIUS

SF/2012/33

JDR Resources Ltd. Nova Scotia, Canada

This report has been prepared with the technical assistance of Le présent rapport a été réalisé par l'assistance technique de

August 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE...... 5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...... 6 ABBREVIATIONS...... 7 LAYMAN’S SUMMARY...... 8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 9 RESUME EXECUTIF...... 9

1.0 INTRODUCTION...... 15 1.1 WHAT IS AQUAPONICS?...... 15 1.2 WHY DO AQUAPONICS?...... 16 1.2.1 Food Security/Water Conservation...... 15 1.2.2 Improved Yields...... 16 1.2.3 Food Distribution...... 16 1.3 TYPES OF AQUAPONIC SYSTEMS...... 16 1.3.1 Raft or Float System...... 16 1.3.2 Flood and Drain System (Media-filled bed)...... 17 1.3.3 Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)...... 18 1.3.4 System Operating Process...... 18

2.0 AQUACULTURE/AQUAPONICS IN AFRICA...... 21 2.1 AQUACULTURE IN AFRICA...... 21 2.2 HYDROPONICS IN AFRICA...... 22 2.3 AQUAPONICS IN AFRICA...... 22

3.0 AQUACULTURE/HYDROPONICS/AQUAPONICS IN MAURITIUS...... 25 3.1 AQUACULTURE IN MAURITIUS...... 25 3.2 HYDROPONICS IN MAURITIUS...... 26 3.3 AQUAPONICS IN MAURITIUS...... 27 3.4 POTENTIAL CONTRIBUTION OF AQUAPONICS...... 28

4.0 PRODUCTS AND MARKETS...... 31 4.1 MARKETS IN MAURITIUS...... 31 4.2 PRODUCT PRICING...... 33 4.3 AQUAPONIC PRODUCTION AND MARKETS IN OTHER AFRICAN COUNTRIES...... 34

5.0 ECONOMICS OF AQUAPONICS...... 37 5.1 CAPITAL COSTS:...... 37 5.1.1 Greenhouse...... 37 5.1.2 Fish tanks...... 37 5.1.3 Growing Beds...... 37 5.1.4 Plumbing...... 38 5.1.5 Pumps...... 38 5.1.6 Air blowers...... 38 5.1.7 Other capital items...... 38 5.1.8 Contingency...... 38 5.2 OPERATING COSTS...... 38 5.2.1 HR Requirements...... 38 5.2.2 Feed Requirements...... 38 5.2.3 Power Requirements...... 39 5.2.4 Seeds...... 39 5.2.5 Fingerlings...... 39 5.2.6 Other items...... 39 5.2.7 Contingency...... 39 5.3 REVENUE POTENTIAL...... 39

6.0 NEXT STEPS...... 41

ANNEX I – TERMS OF REFERENCE...... 43 ANNEX 2 – CONTACTS...... 48 ANNEX 3 – REFERENCES...... 51 ANNEX 4 – USEFUL WEB BASED INFORMATION...... 52 ANNEX 5 – FINANCIAL SUMMARY...... 53 ANNEX 6 – DRAWINGS...... 55 5.2.3 Power Requirements...... 39 PREFACE 5.2.4 Seeds...... 39 5.2.5 Fingerlings...... 39 5.2.6 Other items...... 39 SmartFish is endeavouring to improve the sustainability of traditional artisanal fisheries, whilst enhancing 5.2.7 Contingency...... 39 the livelihoods of fishermen and the economic situations of the communities associated with the resource. 5.3 REVENUE POTENTIAL...... 39 SmartFish is working with traditional fisheries to investigate opportunities to alleviate fishing pressures while increasing and improving fishing yields and markets. Overfishing is a problem facing many countries 6.0 NEXT STEPS...... 41 of the world not just Africa. As a result aquaculture of both marine and freshwater fish is growing in volume in order to meet demand for fish products. In 2012 aquaculture will provide 49% of the world’s edible ANNEX I – TERMS OF REFERENCE...... 43 seafood (FAO, 2012). ANNEX 2 – CONTACTS...... 48 ANNEX 3 – REFERENCES...... 51 SmartFish is also interested in exploring technologies and opportunities for Africa that are less well known but ANNEX 4 – USEFUL WEB BASED INFORMATION...... 52 can hold promise for sustainable fish production. In this context aquaponics offers great potential to provide ANNEX 5 – FINANCIAL SUMMARY...... 53 food security through the local provision of fish and edible plants from an efficient and environmentally ANNEX 6 – DRAWINGS...... 55 sustainable production model. It is believed that aquaponic systems are applicable technology to most if not all African countries and need to be examined from a commercial viewpoint.

Based on this premise a high level assessment has been undertaken to examine the potential for aquaponics as an economically viable model in an African country. This study examines the viability of aquaponics in Mauritius, an African island nation, which currently imports over 70% of its foodstuffs. Aquaponics has been known and trialed in several parts of the world but has failed to be commercialized at an appreciable scale. Aquaponics is capable of producing fish, fruits and vegetables in a recirculation system that conserves freshwater resources. With many African nations facing food security issues as well as water shortages and draughts the timing of this technology is appropriate. In addition, aquaponic systems can take many forms and are directly saleable and thus can fit any level of investment, be it for family food supplementation or as a standalone economic activity.

This report was prepared by David Roberts (JDR Resources Ltd.) and focused its assessment on Mauritius. Mauritius has a fledgling but growing hydroponic vegetable production industry which aims to increase its production to approximately 7-8% of its imported food crop requirements. The reasons for the development of the hydroponic industry are related to the country’s shortage of water, and poor crop production. These factors are shared by many countries throughout Africa. Aquaculture in Africa has been slow to develop and there are several factors including the fact that aquaculture is viewed separately from agriculture and most of the efforts have been focused on agriculture. Aquaculture of freshwater fish is now being developed in several African countries in existing lakes and rivers. These resources have a natural carrying capacity which will ultimately limit the expansion. By developing aquaponics, expansion is much less limited and production houses are not as site dependent.

This report is the first step in assessing the potential for sustainable fish and food crop production via aquaponics. The results of this report will identify the opportunity and application to African states. These results can then be communicated by SmartFish to the region and support pilot facilities and training in future stages of the Programme.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The author would like to acknowledge those who were interviewed and contributed in supplying information used in this report (See Annex 2). The persons are listed in the order in which they were met and in no way reflect their level of contribution. All those interviewed were most supportive of this technology and were very helpful and forthcoming with their information. Their contributions are greatly appreciated. Special acknowledgment is given to:

Mehdi Rahimbaccus, Satish Hanoomanjee, Jesse Brizmohun, S. Khadun, Gansam Boodram, K.H. Nandee

6 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ESA-IO Eastern and Southern Africa and Indian Ocean m2 Square meter m3 Cubic meter Rs Mauritian Rupee NFT Nutrient Film Technique FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations JICA Japan International Cooperation Agency RAS Recirculating Aquaculture System Ha Hectare m Meter t Metric tonne Hp Horsepower Cfm Cubic Feet per Minute Kg Kilogram kW-h Kilowatt-hour M Million

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 7 LAYMAN’S SUMMARY

This report outlines the findings from an investigation into the viability of introducing aquaponics as an alternative technology to sustainably producing freshwater fish as part of the SmartFish program - Technical Assistance for Implementation of a regional fisheries strategy for ESA-IO region.

Aquaponics is the integration of hydroponic plant culture in the land based culture of fish. In an aquaponic system the fish supply the nutrients to the plants (in the form of natural wastes) and the plants form part of the water treatment system (by removing the wastes) from the recirculated fish water.

A variety of fish and plants can be co-cultured in an aquaponic system. The benefits of an aquaponic system include; • the use very little new water, • higher yields of fish and plants per unit area than traditional agriculture, • disease and insect resistance to the plants, • no use of fertilizers or pesticides and • systems are scalable to meet the needs of the producer.

Mauritius (a small island country) imports the majority of its food crops due to restrictions on water availability and adverse climatic conditions. Hydroponic vegetable production has been established and is starting to expand. As a first step a mission was undertaken to evaluate the viability of introducing aquaponics in Mauritius. The assessment and application of this technology although focused on the economics of Mauritius will have application to many African countries in the region, particularly those where freshwater fish are consumed.

8 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The term ‘aquaponics’ is a hybridization of aquaculture and hydroponics. As the name indicates aquaponics is the integration of these two activities. Fish culture and soilless plant culture are combined in an integrated and co-dependent system.

In an aquaponic system the primary input is fish feed. Wastes generated by the fish serve as an organic nutrient source for the plants. Water containing dissolved organics and organic solids are circulated through the plant growing beds/troughs wherein the nutrients are removed and the water returned for reuse to the fish tanks.

Figure 1: The Aquaponic Nutrient Cycle 1

The benefits of aquaponics are many in comparison to traditional aquaculture and hydroponic culture and include;

• Reduce water use over traditional hydroponic or field production of crops. It is estimated that aquaponic systems use only 5-10% of the water required for field production.

• Reduced land/space requirement. Aquaponic and hydroponic systems produce much higher yields of plants per unit area than field crops.

• Increased yield over hydroponic production. Aquaponically grown plants are healthier, produce more fruit, and grow quicker than hydroponic plants. The result is a significantly higher yield per unit area from aquaponic systems.

• Systems are infinitely scalable from ‘backyard systems’ which can supplement the food of one family to large commercial systems that can generate profits and supply food to several communities.

• No need to use inorganic fertilizers.

• Can supply both protein and produce from the same growing system.

• No waste and no discharge.

• No pesticides or herbicides used or allowed.

• Reduction in soil borne diseases. Biological activity of the system results in increased resistance to disease vectors and pests.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 9 • Reduction in monitoring requirements due to an ecologically balanced system. • Ability to grow fish and plants in areas with draught and poor soil quality.

• Ability to provide food security for impoverished areas. Food production year round.

With so many benefits why hasn’t aquaponics been fully developed and adopted in areas where it is needed? Perhaps it is related to the economic viability or the skill sets required to operate both technologies.

This study examined the viability to integrate or adopt aquaponics into an existing hydroponic and aquaculture industry in Mauritius. It was determined that there was considerable interest in the technology but a lack of knowledge on how to establish and operate an operation. Marketing of the plant products did not seem to be an issue as demand from a growing tourism industry as well as increasing local population and shifts in indigenous diets all supported a growing demand for vegetables. Being an island, marine fish were preferred strongly over freshwater fish. Thus, the market value and volume of freshwater fish such as tilapia was low.

Based on discussions with hydroponic growers a commercial greenhouse of 900m2 was selected as the basis for a typical design. A 900 m2 greenhouse would support 55 m3 of fish culture volume which was separated into 7 tanks of 7.8m3 each. In aquaponics there are two primary system designs in use namely flood and drain systems and float systems. Flood and drain systems are simpler in design and use less equipment than float systems. Thus a flood and drain type system was chosen for the sample design.

The economics of constructing and operating a 900 m2 greenhouse flood and drain aquaponic system are summarized in the following table;

Capital costs Rs 3,316,005 Annual operating costs Rs 1,114,191 Annual revenue - Fish Rs 787,500 Annual revenue - Tomatoes Rs 2,250,000 Total revenue Rs 3,037,500 *Net revenues Rs 1,923,309

* Excludes borrowing costs, and owner compensation

Figure 2: Financial Summary

The analysis showed that an aquaponic system as outlined was economically viable. The greenhouse structure was almost 60% of the capital costs. Thus, as an add-on to an existing hydroponic operation the economic return would be more attractive.

Financial analysis on this level of analysis is considered ‘hypothetical’ and should be used as a reason to ‘go’ or ‘no go’ with an investment. Each commercial investment will need to undertake its own detailed cost analysis prior to development. It should be noted that the results of this analysis supports the development of a pilot facility in strategic countries of the ESA-IO region. The pilot facility would undertake training, demonstrate production yields for the various plants and fish of interest, and define operating costs. It is suggested that a pilot facility needs to be large enough to demonstrate operating costs at a commercial scale. It is suggested that the plant production needs to be a minimum of 500 m2. The pilot facility could also demonstrate both flood and drain as well as float systems.

10 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 RAPPORT SOMMAIRE

Le terme « aquaponie » est une hybridation de l’aquaculture et de l’hydroponie. Comme l’indique son nom, l’aquaponie est l’intégration de ces deux activités. La pisciculture et la culture de végétaux hors sol sont combinées dans un système intégré et interdépendant.

Dans un système aquaponique, les aliments pour poissons sont l’élément principal. Les déchets produits par les poissons constituent une source nutritive organique pour les plantes. L’eau contenant des matières organiques dissoutes et des solides organiques circule dans l’installation de lits / bacs de culture de plantes dans lesquels les éléments nutritifs sont éliminés et l’eau est ramenée dans les aquariums pour être réutilisée.

Graphique 1 : Le Cycle nutritif aquaponique 2

L’aquaponie a de nombreux avantages par rapport à l’aquaculture traditionnelle et l’hydroponie :

• Une consommation d’eau réduite par rapport à la production hydroponique traditionnelle ou la culture en plein champ. On estime que les systèmes aquaponiques n’utilisent que 5 à 10 % de l’eau nécessaire à la culture en plein champ.

• Moins d’espace terrestre requis. Les systèmes aquaponiques et hydroponiques produisent des rendements beaucoup plus élevés de plantes par unité de surface que les cultures en plein champ.

• Un rendement accru par rapport à la production hydroponique. Les plantes cultivées en aquaponie sont en meilleure santé, produisent plus de fruits et poussent plus vite que les plantes hydroponiques. Le résultat est un rendement sensiblement plus élevé par unité de surface des systèmes aquaponiques.

• Les systèmes sont adaptables de manière illimitée, allant des « systèmes de production d’arrière- cour » qui peuvent alimenter une famille, aux grands systèmes commerciaux qui peuvent générer des profits et approvisionner plusieurs communautés.

• Pas besoin d’utiliser des engrais inorganiques.

• Peut fournir à la fois des protéines et des produits à partir du même système de culture.

• Ni gaspillage ni déversement.

• Ni pesticides ni herbicides utilisés ou autorisés.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 11 • Réduction des maladies transmises par le sol. L’activité biologique du système se traduit par une résistance accrue aux vecteurs de maladies et aux ravageurs.

• Réduction des mesures de surveillance en raison d’un système écologiquement équilibré.

• Capacité à élever des poissons et cultiver des plantes dans les zones affectées par la sècheresse et la mauvaise qualité du sol.

• Capacité à assurer la sécurité alimentaire dans les zones défavorisées. Production alimentaire pendant l’année entière.

Avec autant d’avantages, pourquoi l’aquaponie n’a-t-elle pas été entièrement développée et adoptée dans les zones qui en ont besoin ? Les raisons ont peut-être trait à la viabilité économique ou l’ensemble des compétences nécessaires pour faire fonctionner les deux technologies.

Cette étude a examiné la viabilité d’intégrer ou d’adopter l’aquaponie dans une industrie hydroponique ou aquacole existante à Maurice. L’on estime qu’il y avait un intérêt considérable dans la technologie mais un manque de connaissances sur la façon d’établir et de gérer une exploitation. La commercialisation des produits végétaux ne semblait pas être un problème car la demande d’une industrie touristique en plein essor ainsi que l’augmentation de la population locale et les changements dans les régimes alimentaires des autochtones ont tous contribué à faire augmenter la demande pour les légumes. En tant qu’insulaires, ces derniers préféraient de loin le poisson marin au poisson d’eau douce. Par conséquent, la valeur marchande et le volume des poissons d’eau douce tels que le tilapia étaient faibles.

À la suite de discussions avec les producteurs hydroponiques, une serre commerciale de 900m² a été choisie pour servir de base à une conception type. Une serre de 900m² soutiendrait 55m³ de volume d’élevage de poisson, divisés en sept réservoirs de 7,8m³ chacun. En aquaponie, deux principaux concepts de systèmes sont utilisés, à savoir, le système inondation-drainage et la culture sur flotteurs. Le système inondation-drainage est plus simple à concevoir et utilise moins de matériel que la culture sur flotteurs. Ainsi, le système inondation-drainage a été choisi pour la conception type. Les aspects économiques entourant la construction et l’exploitation d’une serre de 900m² utilisant le système aquaponique inondation-drainage sont résumés dans le tableau ci-dessous :

Frais d’investissement Rs 3 316 005 Coûts d'exploitation annuels Rs 1,114,191 Revenus annuels - Poisson Rs 787 500 Revenus annuels - Tomates Rs 2 250 000 Recettes totales Rs 3 037 500 *Revenus nets Rs 1 923 309 * Coûts d’emprunt et compensation des propriétaires exclus

Graphique 2 : Résumé financier

L’analyse montre qu’un système aquaponique, comme l’indique le graphique, est économiquement viable. La structure de la serre représente près de 60 % des coûts d’investissement. Ainsi, à titre d’ajout à une exploitation hydroponique existante, le rendement économique serait plus attrayant.

L’analyse financière à ce niveau d’analyse est considérée comme « hypothétique » et doit être utilisée comme une raison pour continuer ou renoncer à un investissement. Chaque investissement commercial devra procéder à sa propre analyse détaillée des coûts avant le développement. Il convient de noter que les résultats de cette analyse appuient la mise au point d’une installation pilote dans des pays stratégiques de la région de l’AfOA-OI. L’installation pilote entreprendrait des actions de formation, afficherait les rendements de production pour les divers cultures et poissons exploités, et définirait les coûts d’exploitation. Il est

12 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 suggéré qu’une installation pilote doit être assez grande pour démontrer les coûts d’exploitation à l’échelle commerciale. Il est suggéré que la production végétale doit être de 500m² au minimum. L’installation pilote pourrait également démontrer à la fois le système inondation-drainage et la culture sur flotteurs.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 13 1 14 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Introduction

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 What is Aquaponics systems are based on freshwater systems due to the preference for freshwater plants and vegetables. The term ‘aquaponics’ is a hybridization of aquaculture and hydroponics. As the name Benefits of aquaponics indicates aquaponics is the integration of these two activities. Fish culture and soilless plant culture The benefits are many in comparison to traditional are combined in an integrated and co-dependent aquaculture and hydroponic culture and include; system. In aquaculture production small fish are fed and the wastes generated by the fish are • Reduce water use over traditional hydroponic removed through biological and/or mechanical or field production of crops. It is estimated treatment systems or simply by dilution with new that aquaponic systems use only 5-10% of the water. Hydroponic plant culture involves the water required for field production. growing of mostly edible plants in an inert media without soil and providing a solution of inorganic • Reduced land/space requirement. Aquaponic nutrients for plant growth. and hydroponic systems produce much higher yields of plants per unit area than field crops. In an aquaponic system the primary input is fish feed. Wastes generated by the fish serve as • Increased yield over hydroponic production. an organic nutrient source for the plants. Water Aquaponically grown plants are healthier, containing dissolved organics and organic solids produce more fruit, and grow quicker than are circulated through the plant growing beds/ hydroponic plants. The result is a significantly troughs wherein the nutrients are removed and higher yield per unit area from aquaponic the water returned for reuse to the fish tanks. The systems. plant system also serves as a biofilter to transform harmful forms of nitrogen waste (ammonia) into • Systems are infinitely scalable from ‘backyard benign forms of nitrogen (nitrate) which are systems’ which can supplement the food to available to the plants for uptake. An aquaponic one family to large commercial systems that system is the only aquaculture system that has a can generate profits and supply food to several filtration/water treatment system that can generate communities. revenue. Similarly, aquaponic systems are the only hydroponic plant culture system that has a • No need to use inorganic fertilizers. nutrient supply system that can generate revenue.

• Can supply both protein and produce from the Aquaponic systems are also ‘closed’ systems same growing system. with 100% of the water in the system recirculated and reused. In an aquaponic system there is no • No waste and no discharge. discharge. Thus aquaponic systems have been demonstrated to be highly efficient food production • No pesticides or herbicides used or allowed. systems with respect to water usage. Aquaponic systems can be built around both freshwater and • Reduction in soil borne diseases. Biological marine systems but the majority of aquaponic activity of the system results in increased resistance to disease vectors and pests.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2012/33 15 • Reduction in monitoring requirements due to ecologically balanced system.

• Ability grow fish and plants in areas with draught and poor soil quality.

• Ability to provide food security for impoverished areas. Food production year round.

1.2 Why do aquaponics?

1.2.1 Food Security/Water Conservation Aquaponics is an excellent tool in producing protein and foods for personal consumption Figure 4: Comparison of cucumbers: plants on the left were grown in aquaponics and the (food security) and/or for sale to others (wealth plants on the right were grown in hydroponics. generation). All countries of the world are now taking note of food security issues. Food security is largely linked to freshwater availability. Many African countries and especially Island countries 1.2.3 Food Distribution In addition, since aquaponics involves recirculation are being faced with water shortages as well as technology it can be site independent and thus food shortfalls either from drought or high demand can be established in almost any environment and relative to supply. Food production systems that location. This allows for competitive advantages in are ‘water efficient’ such as aquaponics have a that the production of food can be located in close huge potential to contribute to food production proximity to markets reducing distribution costs shortfalls whilst conserving natural resources. and a lowering the carbon footprint. 1.2.2 Improved Yields Several studies have been conducted that show 1.3 Types of aquaponic systems that plants grown in an aquaponic nutrient solution compared to that of a hydroponic nutrient solution Aquaponic systems have evolved from the grow more quickly and have a higher yield of edible hydroponic industry and as such are reflective plant tissue or fruit. When an aquaponic system of the means by which hydroponic plants are is first started it takes up to six months before all cultured. In all cases fish are held/grown in tanks/ of the bacterial fauna is well established and in raceways. Nutrient rich water from the fish tanks balance. Thus growth and yields during this period must then be provided to the roots of the plants. are measurably less than hydroponic systems but The systems differ in the way that fish waste solids following this ‘start up’ period increased yields of are handled prior to delivery to the plants. Three 15% or more can be achieved. main types of plant culture are used in aquaponics namely raft (flood) system, flood and drain system, and nutrient film technique system (NFT).

1.3.1 Raft or Float System In a raft system (also known as float, deep channel and deep flow) the plants are grown on Styrofoam boards (rafts) that float on top of water. Most often, this is in a tank separate from the fish tank. Water flows continuously from the fish tank, through filtration components, through the raft tank where the plants are grown and then back to the fish tank.

Figure 3: Aquaponic vs. Hydroponic Plant Yield (Savidov, 2004)

16 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2012/33 Introduction

In a commercial system, the raft tanks can cover large areas, best utilizing the floor space in a greenhouse. Plant seedlings are transplanted on to one end of the raft tank. The rafts are pushed forward on the surface of the water over time and then the mature plants are harvested at the other end of the raft. Once a raft is harvested, it can be replanted with seedlings and set into place on the opposite end. This method optimizes floor space, which is especially important in a commercial greenhouse setting.

1.3.2 Flood and Drain System (Media-filled Figure 5: Aquaponic plant production in a bed) ‘raft or float system’. A flood and drain (media-filled bed) system uses a tank or container that is filled with gravel, perlite The beneficial bacteria live in the raft tank and or other media for the plant bed. This bed is throughout the filtration components. The extra periodically flooded with water from the fish tank. volume of water in the raft tank provides a buffer The water then drains back to the fish tank. All for the fish, reducing stress and potential water waste, including the solids, is broken down within quality problems. This is one of the greatest the plant bed. Sometimes worms are added to the benefits of the raft system. In addition, the gravel-filled plant bed to enhance the break-down University of the Virgin Islands and other research of the waste. As the media bed drains it exposes programs have worked to develop and refine this the plant roots to air (oxygen) and thus there is method for over 25 years. The raft system is a well no need for supplemental oxygen supply as with developed method with very high production per the raft system. This method uses the fewest unit area. In a raft system the waste solids must be components and no additional filtration, making it removed prior to being used in the plant channels simple to construct and operate. The production to avoid clogging of the roots. Solids are removed is, however, lower than the two other methods mechanically (settling clarifiers and mechanical described here. filtration). In addition, this type of system also involves the use of a biofilter to assist in the conversion of ammonia to nitrate prior to flooding of the raft system. As the roots are continuously submerged in the nutrient solution it is necessary o provide oxygen to the flooded channel.

Figure 7: Flood and Drain System

Figure 6: Tilapia/lettuce float system in US Virgin Islands (Rockey, 2004)

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2012/33 17

1.3.4 System Operating Process The key to a successful aquaponic system is the beneficial bacteria which convert the fish wastes into nutrients that the plants use. A key feature of aquaponic technology is that it re-uses water, which is re-circulated continuously throughout the system. All of the tanks and various aquaponic components are connected by pipes. Water flows from the fish tank to the mechanical filter where solid waste is removed. The water then flows into a bio- logical filter that converts ammonia to nitrate. Some systems use special tanks that are designed to promote good bacteria growth—the bacteria act as a filter. After being “treated” in the mechanical and biofiltration components, the water flows back to the fish tank.

Figure 8: Tilapia based flood and drain gravel bed system – Canada (Roberts, 2003).

1.3.3 Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) NFT is a method in which the plants are grown in long narrow channels. A thin film of water continuously flows down each channel, providing the plant roots with water, nutrients and oxygen. As with the raft system, water flows continuously from the fish tank, through filtration components (clarifier, biofilter), through the NFT channels where the plants are grown and then back to the fish tank. In NFT systems, a separate bio filter is required, as there is not a large amount of water or surface for the beneficial bacteria to live. In addition, the diameter of pipes and irrigation hoses Figure 9: NFT hydroponic lettuce production used in a hydroponic NFT system are usually not (Mauritius) large enough to be used in Aquaponics because the organic nature of the system and ‘living’ water will cause clogging of small pipes and tubes. NFT More than 50% of the waste produced by fish Aquaponics shows potential but, is traditionally is in the form of ammonia, secreted through used for leafy plant production such as lettuce and the gills and in the urine. The remainder of the herbs. waste, excreted as fecal matter, undergoes a process called mineralization which occurs when heterotrophic bacteria consume fish waste, decaying plant matter and uneaten food, converting all three to ammonia & other compounds. In sufficient quantities, ammonia is

18 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2012/33 Introduction

toxic to plants and fish. Nitrifying bacteria, which Need for a greenhouse naturally live in the soil, water and air, convert ammonia first to nitrite and then to nitrate which The type of greenhouse and the specific plants consume. In aquaponic systems, the environmental control equipment can vary widely, nitrifying bacteria will thrive in the gravel in the depending on the particular climatic conditions. growing medium in the grow bed. The plants In many climates, a greenhouse is particularly readily uptake the nitrate in the water and, in beneficial to protect the crops from rain, wind and consuming it, help to keep the water quality safe insects. However, where storms are infrequent or for the fish. less severe a greenhouse is not always required. Aquaponic operations in the Caribbean and Hawaii Briefly, some of the important factors to be often use a mixture of covered and exposed plant considered for building and operating an culture. Fish tank components are usually covered aquaponic system are: to prevent algal growth in the tanks. • Water quality and waste management • Dissolved oxygen • Temperature • pH and alkalinity • Waste removal: Ammonia, Nitrites, Nitrates, solid and suspended waste • Carbon dioxide

Figure 10: Layout of aquaponic float system.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2012/33 19 2 20 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Aquaculture/Aquaponics in Africa

2 AQUACULTURE/ AQUAPONICS IN AFRICA

2.1 Aquaculture in Africa

Of the 126 million tonnes available for human consumption in 2009, fish consumption was lowest in Africa (9.1 million tonnes, with 9.1 kg per capita). Africa continues to be slow in developing aquaculture. Africa has increased its contribution to global production from 1.2 percent to 2.2 percent in the past ten years, mainly as a result of rapid development in freshwater fish farming in sub-Saharan Africa.

The share of freshwater aquaculture in the region fell from 55.2 percent to 21.8 percent in the 1990s, largely reflecting the strong growth in brackish-water culture in Egypt, but it recovered in the 2000s, reaching 39.5 percent in 2010 as a result of rapid development in freshwater fish farming in sub-Saharan Africa, most notably in Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, Ghana and Kenya. African aquaculture production is overwhelmingly dominated by finfishes (99.3 percent by volume), with only a small fraction from marine shrimps (0.5 Figure 11: Freshwater fish culture in percent) and marine molluscs (0.2 percent) (FAO, earthen ponds (Kenya). 2012). Country Tonnes )%( Percentage Egypt 919,585 71.38 Nigeria 200,535 15.57 Uganda 95,000 7.37 Kenya 12154 0.94 Zambia 10290 0.80 Ghana 10,200 0.79 Madagascar 6,886 0.53 Tunisia 5,424 0.42 Malawi 3,163 0.25 South Africa 3,133 0.24 Other 21,950 1.70 Total 1,288,320 100

Figure 12: Top 10 producers in Africa 2010 (FAO 2012)

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 21 There are commercial farms using cage, raceway One of the reasons for lack of development and recirculating systems, but ponds are the according to the European Commission for principal production unit. Marine shrimp culture is Africa (2009) is related to the appropriateness concentrated in Madagascar, although there are a of the technology. As aquaculture technologies few farms in Seychelles, Kenya and Mozambique, did not exist in the traditional setting, these had as well as plans to begin raising shrimp in Gabon to be introduced. Unfortunately many of these and Nigeria. Due to the need to avoid issues of introduced technologies were inappropriate and disease marine shrimp growers are looking at unsuited to the needs of the intended beneficiaries. production in isolated nations such as Mauritius. There was lack of appreciation for the prevailing Mollusc culture is limited to Namibia and South social, cultural and economic factors, as well as Africa, where the latter has regionally significant a lack of understanding of important supply and production of mussels and oysters, as well as demand considerations, including competition for the beginnings of an abalone industry. Seaweed most production inputs. Additionally, fish-farming culture is limited to South Africa, Namibia and development was not seen in the context of rural Tanzania. (FAO, 2005). The following color coded development, and aquaculture was considered as map shows general categorization of Africa with a separate entity from agriculture. More often than respect to suitability for inland aquaculture. With not, the external technical assistance prevalent a closed aquaponic system all areas that have promoted technologies they felt to be the most access to ‘some’ freshwater can be considered appropriate, as opposed to those most useful to ‘very suitable’ for aquaculture development. would-be producers. Weaknesses in this top-down approach became apparent, as sustainability was lacking, and a new emphasis was placed on participation and understanding the human factors of technology adoption. These lessons are important to keep in mind when assessing and introducing new technologies such as aquaponics to communities.

Food production will remain an overriding priority, and intensification as well as diversification in food production will constitute important approaches to development.

2.3 Aquaponics in Africa

Aquaponics in Africa is only in its infancy. Production stats on aquaponic operations are non-existent due to so few systems. The systems that are known to exist are generally small scale backyard systems and those designed to feed several families. Companies promoting Figure 13: GIS assessment of potential for small- aquaponics are active in Africa so there is an scale/artisanal aquaculture (Brummett et al, 2008) expectation that these systems will become more prominent over time. African countries where 2.2 Hydroponics in Africa aquaponics is known to exist include; South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Kenya, Zambia, and Rwanda. Hydroponics in Africa is being practiced in many Many of the initiatives are those by groups African countries but due to the relatively large concerned about alleviating local poverty and capital costs for startup as well as requirement nutritional deficiencies. As with most development for training the uptake is slow. Rainfall and food primary human needs related to health and shortages will increase the demand for water/ survival will be the dominant driving force with land efficient means to produce food. Thus, social benefits following. the integration of fish (protein) and produce (vegetable) production could have significant An example of a recent aquaponics development impacts in many regions throughout Africa.

22 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Aquaculture/Aquaponics in Africa

in Africa is the Portable Farms system being based on local demand are tomatoes, lettuce, established in Botswana. cucumbers and herbs. The 10,000 sq ft (1,000 m2) Portable Farms currently being completed “May 9, 2012 - Organic Aquaponic’s System in Botswana will produce 60,000 vegetables and Licensed in Botswana, Africa - Portable Farms 21,000 pounds (9,000 kg) of tilapia fish, per year to Ltd announces the licensing and construction be sold locally. of the first commercial Portable Farms™ Aquaponics System in Africa. “ The Botswana project includes a visitor’s center, three 10,000 sq ft Portable Farms™ Aquaponics The Botswana License Holder, recently completed System units, a fish processing center, a farmers the largest fish hatchery in Southern Africa. The market, and upgraded utilities for the area. benefits of the system include low monitoring and cleaning requirements, operation by semi-skilled labour, and a focus on sustainability.

The initial crops chosen by the license holder

Figure 14: 10,000 sq ft Portable Farms(TM) Aquaponics System in Botswana, Africa

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 23 3 24 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Aquaculture/Hydroponics/Aquaponics in Mauritius

3 AQUACULTURE/ HYDROPHONICS/ AQUAPONICS IN MAURITIUS

3.1 Aquaculture in Mauritius La Ferme Fish Farm for the benefit of small aquaculturists and fingerlings were initially Aquaculture practices in Mauritius date back to the distributed free of charge to encourage fish French colonization period. Fingerlings of multiple farming. species of marine fishes were collected from the lagoon and stocked in ‘barachois’ for fattening. The culture of the freshwater crayfish introduced Such type of farming is still practiced. Species from Australia by the private sector in 1996 was such as couscous, tilapias, dame céré, black discontinued due to a low consumer demand. bass and gouramier were introduced in the early Presently the facilities of La Ferme have been twenties. leased to a private sector farming operation which has grown tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) and A camaron (freshwater prawn) brood stock was freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii). introduced in 1972 from Hawaii. The green water and the clear water rearing techniques were During the first year of operation approximately 75 acquired and the technology was transferred metric tonnes of berry rouge tilapia were produced to the private sector for commercial production. and sold. Due to high lease costs, water costs, Hatchery production and grow-out were completely and low consumer demand for freshwater products taken over by the private sector. However, in the operation has struggled to turn a profit. Unit 2002 the private sector had to abandon the costs of producing freshwater prawn and a business because of high costs and water scarcity. higher demand than tilapia will see the farm shift The Government hatchery took over to ensure production to prawn culture entirely to increase production of juveniles to support medium and revenues. This farm is the only commercial small scale farmers around the island. freshwater operation known in Mauritius.

In late 1975, three species of Chinese carps and three species of Indian carps were introduced for freshwater aquaculture. Induced spawning using hormone injection resulted in the production of fish fry for polyculture with camaron. The culture was undertaken on a commercial basis by the private sector for producing carps and camaron for sale. However, as consumer demand for carps was not high the culture was discontinued.

In 1990, the red tilapia hybrid was introduced from Malaysia. Monosex fish is produced through sex reversal treatment for culture yielding quality seeds with high growth and good survival rates. The culture techniques were adopted by the private sector and similarly as for the freshwater prawns, production ceased in 2002. The production of fingerlings by the Ministry was continued at the Figure 15: Tilapia hatchery/nursery at La Ferme (Mauritius)

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 25 enhance the fish stock of the lagoon, fingerlings of the sea bream and juveniles of the marine shrimp are regularly released in the lagoon.

Most recently sea cage culture of Sea bream is being practiced on an experimental scale. There are also plans to investigate the land based culture of crabs in a RAS (recirculated aquaculture system).

It can generally be said that freshwater aquaculture has been impaired in its development due to a weak market for freshwater fish compared to that of marine fish. Figure 16: Tilapia pond and unused greenhouse in La Ferme (Mauritius) 3.2 Hydroponics in Mauritius

Presently, most of the food crops produced in Marine Aquaculture Mauritius are obtained through the traditional open- field cultivation, but due to problems like infestation In 1989 sea bream culture was initiated in of pests and diseases, unfavourable weather collaboration with the Japanese International conditions linked to climate change, shortage of Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the production of labour and high cost of production, many growers seed for trial culture in barachois. Seed production are gradually shifting from traditional open-field techniques were mastered. Fingerlings were cultivation to hydroponics production. regularly released in the coastal waters for stock enhancement. Commercial hydroponics started in Mauritius around the year 2000. Incentives were given in the In 1987, the culture of two species of marine form of soft loans by the Government of Mauritius shrimps was undertaken with the assistance to encourage the industry start up. According of JICA. The technology transfer to the private to the Strategic Options for Crop and Livestock sector did not materialize due to high capital 2007-2015, there were 6 hydroponic promoters investment and unavailability of rearing space in Mauritius in 1999, who were involved in 25 in the coastal areas. However, the Government hydroponics units. Over the years this number hatchery continued production of shrimp juveniles has increased considerably to 179 promoters in to be stocked in barachois and to be released in 2006 that were producing crops under hydroponics the lagoon for stock enhancement. With a view to in 301 units. Presently in 2012 there were encourage culture of shrimps by inland farmers, approximately 350 producers with 180,000 m2 trials have been conducted at the Albion Fisheries under cultivation. Research Centre recently to acclimatize the marine shrimps for on- growing in fresh water. Results have not been encouraging. Seed production of crab was also undertaken with assistance from JICA with no convincing results for mass culture.

Floating cage culture was introduced only recently in 2002. Red drum, sea bream and rabbit fish were cultured by a private farmer in the deep channel in the lagoon of the south east coast of Mauritius with promising results.

A few barachois are involved in the culture of oyster, crabs, and marine fish from the wild and Figure 17: Hydroponic greenhouses in salt water acclimatized berri rouge. Moreover, to Balaclava, Mauritius.

26 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Aquaculture/Hydroponics/Aquaponics in Mauritius

The bulk of the growers (90%) are using substrate Due to water shortages in Mauritius the i.e. cocopeat or some media to grow their crops. greenhouse growers get about 50% of their water The remainder (10%) is NFT primarily for lettuce from boreholes and 50% from collected rainwater. production. Current practice among the industry is to use Greenhouse sizes under single ownership run the inorganic fertilizer solution in a flow through from 200 m2 to 8-9000 m2. The industry average is manner with no reclaim or recirculation of solution. approximately 500 m2. This is done to keep the nutrient solution mixing The industry produces only five primary products simple for staff. However, this adds cost in namely; additional fertilizers and water usage and results • Tomatoes (several varieties) in having to discharge nutrient solution to the • English cucumbers surrounding environment. • Sweet peppers • Lettuce • Melon

Figure 20: Spent nutrient solution runoff.

3.3 Aquaponics in Mauritius

There is no aquaponic production in Mauritius at Figure 18: Young hydroponic cucumber plants in present. However, in speaking with those involved Cluny, Mauritius. in the industry they are interested in learning more about the benefits of aquaponics. Many of the growers were interested in a Government sponsored pilot aquaponic project but also in attempting a small scale trials unit themselves. The growers could readily see the benefits of recycled water, elimination of inorganic fertilizers and higher plant yields to their existing operations. Growers admitted that the traditional fish species of tilapia would be a difficult sell in the Mauritian marketplace.

In introducing aquaponics to Mauritius it is prudent to keep the systems as simple as possible and to keep the plant production component similar to the existing plant production systems so that existing infrastructure can be utilized. Under this scenario a flood and drain aquaponic system Figure 19: Hydroponic tomato plants would be the most appropriate. Fish tanks (say in Cluny, Mauritius. tilapia or freshwater prawn) would be an added

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 27

component and could be placed outside (under for discharge to the surrounding environment. shade) adjacent to the greenhouses. Currently, Thus, the current practices of flow through use of the majority of vegetables grown in hydroponic inorganic nutrients will no longer be practiced. greenhouses are grown in media on the ground and supplied nutrients from ground level piping. Although there are subtle differences in hydroponic Thus, in order to keep growing practices similar practices generally hydroponic systems are and to minimize pumping requirements the fish very similar to that observed in Mauritius. If a tank(s) would be partially buried in the ground. By grower is using a NFT or raft system or substrate placing the tanks in the ground the water from the such as cocopeat to culture plants then the plant culture beds would drain by gravity back to aquaponic system must include solids removal the fish tanks. Also, the ground serves to serves and biofiltration components before the nutrient to insulate the tanks and act as a heat sink/source solution can be offered to the plants. This is and help to stabilize temperatures of the fish tank required to avoid solids being trapped by the roots water. Plants would be grown in ‘grow beds’ of the plants, and restricting oxygen availability. which would be rectangular shallow boxes filled In addition, NFT and raft systems do not have with growing media (most likely gravel or small sufficient surface area to support the required level stone) to a depth of 300 mm. This would allow of biofiltration. The delivery hoses used in the NFT similar growing height in the greenhouses to be and substrate hydroponic culture are generally maintained. too small in diameter to use in aquaponics as the organic solution will quickly foul and plug the hose. 3.4 Potential Contribution of Thus, larger diameter delivery hoses would be Aquaponics required.

Hydroponic growers using substrate for plant The introduction of aquaponics to existing culture usually have the substrate directly on Mauritian hydroponic growers would require the floor of the greenhouse and let the nutrient the addition of fish tanks, growing beds, and solution leach out to the ground and flow via a associated plumbing and controls. The only graded trough out of the greenhouse to a collection required input to the farm is fish feed and water pH ditch. This type of collection system would not be adjustment buffers. These costs would be offset suitable as a recovery system for aquaponics as it by reduction in fertilizers and water and additional opens the system to contamination from organics, revenues from fish/prawn sales and additional etc… from the greenhouse floor. Cocopeat produce. In aquaponic systems the majority of has been used in aquaponic systems but it did the revenues come from the plant production. result in a dark coloration of the water. It would Generally rules of thumb for design of aquaponic be the recommendation of the author that those flood and drain systems are 2:1 media volume to using substrate media convert to using a flood fish tank volume and roughly 7:1 growing area to and drain system. This would involve building fish tank volume. media beds and associated piping but would not require additional solids removal or biofiltration Water requirements for existing hydroponic components. growers range from 1.5 L/ m2/day in the cooler months to 4.0 L/ m2/day in the warmer months (Rahimbaccus, pers. comm). Using an average of 2.25 L/ m2/day for a 900 m2 greenhouse would mean that 2,025 L/day or approximately 60 m3/ month would be required. A greenhouse of 900 m2 would support an aquaponic system with a water volume of 50 m3. Water requirements for aquaponic systems are estimated at 1.5% per day (Rockey, 2007). This calculates to 750 L/day or approximately 22 m3/month. This is greater than 60% reduction in water usage.

Aquaponics also allows for the complete utilization of nutrients from the system and there is no need

28 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 29 4 30 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Products and Markets

4.0 PRODUCTS AND MARKETS

In Mauritius the hydroponic growers are almost 4.1 Markets in Mauritius exclusively growing five products. The breakdown of percentage of total hydroponic production is Aquaponic systems are capable of producing a estimated as follows (Elapen, pers. Comm); wide range of leafy and fruiting plants including but not limited to; • Tomatoes (several varieties) 60% • English cucumbers 20% any leafy lettuce pak choi • Sweet peppers 15% spinach arugula • Lettuce & Melon 5% basil rosemary thyme oregano mint watercress chives tomatoes most common house plants sweet peppers hot peppers cucumbers beans peas squash okra melon strawberries carrots others

Any plant that can be produced hydroponically can be produced with aquaponics.

Figure 22: Hydroponic Cherry tomatoes, Cluny, Mauritius.

Although the Dept. of Agriculture in Mauritius describes the vegetable market in Mauritius as being ‘self-sufficient’ the growers acknowledge that the market is strong and growing. The growth is primarily due to increases in tourism and hotel development as well as changes in local diets. Traditionally, tomatoes were used exclusively for ‘cooking’ and not for direct use as foods i.e. as in a salad. Recently, however there has been a shift in the diet due to the influence of western cuisine to use tomatoes in salads etc… This has increased demand for tomatoes and increased the varieties under culture. In periods of shortage

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 31 especially during cyclones and drought the country imports fresh vegetables to supplement the local production. Frozen vegetables and special agricultural commodities are imported throughout the year for the local market and the tourist industry.

Local production of all foods in Mauritius accounts for only 23% of total requirements with the remainder having to be imported. Food security is a priority for the government. Reliance on imports is often a matter of affordability as local costs of production are too high. Agricultural commodities produced at lower prices in other producer countries will continue to compete with local production both for domestic and export markets. Figure 24: Hydroponic NFT letttuce production, From 2001 to 2006 the value of processed foods Vacoas, Mauritius including vegetables increased from 0.2 Million Food crop production in Mauritius is dominated by RS to 9.0 million RS. This significant increase small scale farming i.e. farms of 0.25 ha with only is largely due to the food habits of Mauritian a few farms of 10 ha or more. Most of the arable consumers having shifted towards processed and land in Mauritius is dedicated to the production convenience foods, with an increasing importance of sugar cane. Crop production continues to on quality, food safety and brands. This trend has be under rain fed conditions resulting in surplus continued. vegetable production during the winter months and a shortage in the summer months. The main constraints for increasing food crop production are availability of suitable land and labour, irrigation facilities, increasing cost of energy and theft.

Based on the Ministries report on Strategic Options in Crop Diversification and Livestock Sector (2007 to 2015) there are expansion plans for all of the products currently being produced by the hydroponic sector. The Government is also concerned with land availability, use of fertilizers, use of pesticides, and water conservation. All of these concerns are favourably addressed by the introduction and expansion of aquaponics.

The Government has recognized that hydroponics can produce vegetables of high quality and nutritional value while conserving land and water resources. In light of an increasing tourist industry and sophistication of domestic markets there is an increasing demand for hydroponic products.

In order to cope with the increasing demand for Hydroponics vegetables a projected target of 26 ha of protected cultivation has been set mainly for salad tomato, sweet pepper, lettuce, melon and cucumber production. Current area of protected cultivation is estimated at 18 ha which is roughly Figure 22: Hydroponic Cherry tomatoes, Cluny, on target with the intended expansion. Mauritius.

32 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Products and Markets

Figure: 25 Hydroponic Expansion Implementation Plan (Ministry of Agriculture report on Strategic Options in Crop Diversification and Livestock Sector (2007 to 2015)

Year 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Acreage 9.7 10.43 11.53 13.7 16.22 19.48 21.89 24.32 26.00 (ha) Yield (t) 2,620 2,858 3,230 3,913 4,456 5,778 7,253 7,344 7,884

By year 2015, it is projected that the area under hydroponics production should gradually increase to 26 ha under different crops as listed below:

Figure 26: Hydroponic Production Targets. (Ministry of Agriculture report on Strategic Options in Crop Diversification and Livestock Sector (2007 to 2015)

Area (ha) 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Salad 7.5 7.7 8.1 8.8 9.7 10.8 11.6 12.4 13.0 Tomato Sweet 1.5 1.67 1.93 2.38 2.9 3.6 4.12 4.65 5.0 pepper Lettuce 0.2 0.34 0.43 0.9 1.32 1.88 2.3 2.72 3.0 Cucumber 0.3 0.43 0.64 0.97 1.38 1.92 2.32 2.73 3.0 Melon 0.2 0.29 0.425 0.65 0.92 1.28 1.55 1.82 2.0

In Mauritius the preferred fish is a marine fish. integrated the freshwater prawn culture them in Freshwater fish such as tilapia have struggled to the troughs of a floating raft system and still have attract a high market price or volume. That said, tilapia as the primary nutrient supplier. For this tilapia is wholesaling for Rs100/kg and the land report the assumed fish of culture was tilapia. based producer of tilapia sold 75 t in his first year of operation. He indicated that this volume did not 4.2 Product Pricing pose a problem in marketing. Other freshwater species that could be grown in Mauritius could Pricing for the main hydroponic crops varies include the freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium between seasons with the highest prices occurring rosenbergii). Although the wholesale market price in the summer months (October to April, with a for freshwater prawn is Rs 300/kg the production peak in Dec). During this period high temperatures volume per unit volume of tank is considerably result in slowed growth and reduced supply into less. Integrating freshwater prawn culture into the marketplace. The reverse is true for the winter aquaponics operations is not well documented months (May to Sept) when prices are low. Market as tilapia have been the species of choice for prices for the most popular hydroponic crops are almost all aquaponic operations. Those who have as follows; Figure 27: Hydroponic vegetable pricing.

Product Wholesale (High) Wholesale (Low) Wholesale (Average) Tomato Rs 150/kg Rs 30/kg Rs 50/kg English Cucumber Rs 12/pc Rs 8/pc Rs 10/pc Sweet Pepper – Green Rs 80/kg Sweet Pepper – Yellow/ Rs 110/kg Red Lettuce Rs 10/head Melon Rs 110/kg

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 33 Figure 28: Hydroponic tomatoes, Mauritius.

4.3 Aquaponic production Africa. Marine fish consumption is highest in West and markets in other Africa (36 per cent), while East Africa is the major consumer of fresh water fish (44 per cent). African countries It is evident that all countries in Africa could benefit nutritionally from the introduction of local food Most African countries are still facing the production in the form of aquaponics. In East interlocking challenges of low incomes, high African countries that are already eating freshwater share of food in household budgets, a very high fish the introduction of aquaponics would be a dependency on imports for food and for fossil good fit as tilapia or other freshwater fish would fuel-based energy supply, poor agricultural growth have a ready market. The leafy greens and performance, and weak institutional capacities that vegetables produced would be easily sold in any expose them to very high risks of food insecurity. of the African countries. During the period from Hunger and malnutrition still are a serious concern 2005 to 2009 39% of the food crisis in Africa were throughout the continent, in particular in sub- related to natural/ meteorological (i.e. draught, Saharan Africa. With 45 per cent of the African fire, floods) causes. This was second only to population living on less than $1/day and spending war and conflict (45%) which are often rooted in 50-75 per cent of their income on staple foods disputes over resources including agricultural land (a high proportion of which are imports) there and water. Aquaponic food production systems are particular concerns for the poor, especially being water efficient and offering high yields per in those countries that are highly dependent on unit of land as well as being buffered from the the international market for food and energy. direct impacts of meteorological issues would (Committee on Food Security and Sustainable be a welcome contributor to food production in Development, 2009). African countries. Local food production that is sustainable such as aquaponic systems are seen A combination of climatic/agro-ecological zones as a means of protection against a food security and dietary/consumption habits determine the crisis. dominant crop or food type in each country. The three major food groups in terms of supply for human consumption are cereals, starchy roots, and fruits and vegetables.

The per capita supply of milk, meat/offal and eggs – an important source of protein and micronutrients – remains at low levels in all sub regions but North

34 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 35 5 36 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Economics of Aquaponics

5.0 ECONOMICS OF AQUAPONICS

For all of the benefits which can be accredited Virgin Islands. A fiberglass tank of this size has an to the development of aquaponics financial assumed capital cost of Rs45,000 per tank. sustainability is required in order for the technology to be fully developed as a significant source of fish, fruits, vegetables, and greens. A typical flood and drain system was designed and costed to assess its economic viability for Mauritius. The size of the system was based on a greenhouse of 900 m2 which are the sizes of the incubator plots used at the hydroponic village at Cluny. In addition, most hydroponic growers have holdings of less than 1,000 m2 (which is generally accepted to be the entry level of viability).

5.1 Capital costs:

5.1.1 Greenhouse Figure 30: Fibreglass fish tanks. A greenhouse with a peak height of 4 to 4.5 m is suggested to mitigate high temperatures. The greenhouse would have an overall footprint of 5.1.3 Growing Beds 900 m2 and be comprised of 4 to 5 bays common The growing beds could be made from any strong in a ‘gutter connected’ style greenhouse. It is material such as a wood frame and lined with suggested that the greenhouse be covered with a waterproof membrane or epoxy sealant. The greenhouse plastic with a UV blocking rate of growing beds can have various shapes and forms <360 nanometers. The greenhouse capital cost but the most common is a rectangle. For this will also include a floor covering (plastic). Average prices in Mauritius obtained from the greenhouse growers surveyed were Rs1,500/ m2. Allowing for incidentals and site works a cost of Rs2,000/ m2 is assumed.

5.1.2 Fish tanks Seven fiberglass or plastic fish tanks are required. The tanks would be buried in the ground to minimize pumping and allow for drainage by gravity from the plant growing beds. The assumed dimensions of the tanks are 2.5 m diameter x 1.6 m in height. The culture volume of the tanks is 7.8 m3. This volume was used to allow useable comparison with the tilapia culture in the Figure 31: Growing beds filled with pea gravel experimental system of James Rakocy in the US

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 37 study the design dimensions of the growing beds 5.1.8 Contingency are 0.9m wide x 4.0 m long x 0.3 m depth. This A contingency of 10% of all other capital costs is depth is the optimal depth for holding large fruiting used to allow for cost over-runs. plants such as tomatoes and cucumbers and for Total capital costs including a greenhouse are adequate mineralization of fish solids. Shallower estimated at Rs 3.3M. This cost is reduced to Rs depths are possible if growing smaller leafy plants 1.3M for existing hydroponic growers who want to such as lettuce. The cost of materials and gravel utilize an existing greenhouse with an equivalent for each growing bed is conservatively estimated footprint. at Rs1,500 each. The 900 m2 greenhouse has a capacity of one hundred (100) growing beds. Note: Land costs are highly variable and were not included. This analysis assumes that the proprietor has available lands with services. 5.1.4 Plumbing Plastic pipes and valves are required to circulate 5.2 Operating Costs the fish water to the growing beds and to drain the water back to the fish tanks. Each tank will be associated with 14 or 15 growing beds. The 5.2.1 HR Requirements 2 plumbing can be arranged such that growing A 900 m aquaponics system would require a beds can receive fish water from one or more farm manager to look after the overall operation fish tanks. This will allow for greater ability to of the farm including the timing of fish stockings/ balance nutrients when fish tanks or growing beds harvesting and planting schedule. The farm are harvested. Based on local piping costs an manager would also look after sales/marketing estimate of Rs350,000 was used. of the products. The daily operation of the farm would require 3 additional technical staff to undertake fish feeding, water quality management, 5.1.5 Pumps plant seeding and harvesting as well packaging/ Each fish tank will be fitted with a 0.5 Hp processing of marketable products. Labour rates freshwater fish pump capable of delivering up for technicians are estimated at Rs 7,500/month/ to 300 L/min at 5 m head. These pumps will be person. It is assumed that a single 900 m2 unit controlled with a cycle timer and/or a float switch. would have the farm owner as the farm manager If three phase power is available then a three phase motor is preferred. Pumps must be capable who would be able to take a salary from net profits. of cycling of/off numerous times/day. An estimate of Rs24,000 per pump was assumed, based on 5.2.2 Feed Requirements industry experience. In an aquaculture operation feed is often the highest percentage item of all inputs. In this case since the labour component is higher due to the 5.1.6 Air blowers additional greenhouse activities feed is tied with Oxygen will be delivered to the fish tanks via an air labour for highest operating cost. It is calculated blower and air diffuser stones. Regenerative air that each tank can yield 1,125 kg of fish annually. blowers are very reliable and can run continuously With an assumed food conversion ratio of 1.5:1 for years without fail. Two 1.5 Hp air blowers of this would require 1,688 kg of feed/yr/tank. Seven a capacity of 100 cfm at 30 inches of water are tanks of fish would then produce 7,875 kg of fish required to supply the air to the seven fish tanks. and required 11,812 kg of feed. Total annual feed It is advisable to have one(1) spare air blower on costs at Rs30/kg are Rs354,375. site at all times. The cost of an air blower of this capacity is estimated at Rs36,000 each.

5.1.7 Other capital items The farm will require other capital items such as fish nets, weighing scales, buckets, rubber boots, etc… These items are collectively estimated at 5% of capital costs.

Figure 32: Tilapia feed.

38 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Economics of Aquaponics

5.2.3 Power Requirements Fisheries (Albion) for a cost of Rs 1.25 each. Power is required to operate the water supply pumps to the planter beds and to supply compressed air (oxygen) to the fish tanks. It is estimated that 2 x 1.5Hp air blowers would be required for the fish tank oxygen supply. Each fish tank would have its own supply pump which would be interlinked with the other tanks in case of failure. Each pump would be 0.5 Hp. Total pumping power costs are calculated at 6.5 Hp. This would require a calculated total of 3,510 kW-h/month. Commercial power rates in Mauritius are Rs 5.4/kW-h. Figure 34: Tilapia fry. 5.2.4 Seeds The number of seeds required in a year is 5.2.6 Other items dependent upon how long the crop is harvested There are other items including consumable such during the year. With respect to tomatoes and as pH balancing chemicals i.e. calcium hydroxide cucumbers some growers harvest the same and potassium hydroxide, trellis ropes for plant plants for up to one(1) year from time of seeding vines, rope clips, seedling trays, and the cost of while others replant after 6 months. For the make up water. These items have been estimated purposes of this analysis it is assumed that the based on costs used by existing growers. crop (tomatoes) would be harvested all year round Collectively they comprise less than 4% of direct i.e. one seeding per year. Stocking densities of operating costs. plants was universally estimated at 2.5 plants/ m2 of greenhouse which calculates to 2,250 plants/ 5.2.7 Contingency year. Assuming a 10% seed loss then total seeds A contingency of 10% was used in determining required per year would be 2,475. Seed costs are direct operating costs. Rs 15 each. Total operating costs for the above outlined 900 m2 greenhouse and 7 x 7.8m3 fish tanks is estimated at Rs 1.1M.

5.3 REVENUE POTENTIAL

The above outlined operation is capable of producing 7,875 kg of tilapia. At a wholesale market price of Rs 100/kg this generates Rs 787,500 of revenue.

Aquaponic trials with a range of tomato varieties including those grown in Mauritius averaged an annual yield of 20 kg/plant/year. With 2,250 plants this produces an annual harvested weight of Figure 33: Lettuce seedlings. 45,000 kg of tomatoes for the entire greenhouse. At a wholesale price of Rs 50/kg the revenue 5.2.5 Fingerlings generated by the produce is Rs 2,250,000/yr. Tilapia fingerlings would be stocked every four weeks which would allow up to 28 weeks for Total revenue generated is Rs 3,037,500/yr. Using growth to market size of 500 grams. A total the annual operating costs above of Rs 1.1M there annual production of 7,785 kg of fish would is approximately Rs 1.9M net revenues available require 15,750 harvested fish. Assuming a 5% for loan repayment and remuneration of the owner/ loss then total fingerling requirements would be manager. A summary of the financial analysis is 16,538. Fingerlings are available from the Dept. of listed below. A more detailed breakdown of the costs and revenues is presented in Annex 5.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 39 6 40 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Next Steps

6.0 NEXT STEPS

All those who hear about aquaponics are intrigued With all of the benefits of aquaponics outlined and often excited about investigating how it could earlier in this report it is viewed as a sound be done. The daunting component seems to be and appropriate technology for much of Africa the fish culture and the integration and balancing and offers not only food security by being able of the water quality parameters. As with most to produce protein and vegetables ‘locally’ but ‘new’ initiatives it is often up to pioneers to can also offer economic opportunities through explore new technologies. The issue with this commercialization of the technology. That said it approach is that it can be expensive and there is is strongly recommended that a pilot aquaponics often no guarantee of success. Often when new facility be developed in a selected country. technologies fail the belief is that it ‘doesn’t work’, The financial analysis undertaken in this study which may not be true. supports the development of a pilot facility in strategic countries of the ESA-IO region. The

Figure 36: Pilot project costing.

Capital Costs )€( Estimate Greenhouse (500 m2) 25,000 Planting beds 5,000 Fish tanks 4,800 Pumps 3,200 Air blowers 2,000 Pipe, valves and fittings 6,000 Sub-total capital costs 50,000 Operating costs – first six months* 8,000 Technical assistance – design, commissioning and 30,000 training Sub-total operating costs 38,000 Total project costs 88,000 * Assumes operating costs as per those in Mauritius. pilot facility would undertake training, demonstrate first step it would be simplest to establish the flood production yields for the various plants and fish and drain gravel bed system and then introduce of interest, and define operating costs. It is the raft float system at a later date. suggested that a pilot facility needs to be large enough to demonstrate operating costs at a Assuming a site along with water and power were commercial scale. It is recommended that the pilot available it should be possible to undertake a facility have a plant production area of a minimum pilot project involving the construction of a 500 m2 of 500 m2. The pilot facility could also demonstrate greenhouse c/w 50 flood and drain beds and four both flood and drain as well as float systems. As a 7.8 m3 fish tanks, for the following budget;

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 41 Possible locations for a pilot farm, based on import requirements and/or percentage of income spent on foodstuffs would include; Mauritius Seychelles Rwanda Kenya Zambia Malawi Once established and operational workshops could be held in country with invited participants from other countries in the Region to highlight the facility and solicit candidates for training programs at the facility.

42 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 ANNEX

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 43 44 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 ANNEX I – TERMS OF REFERENCE AGROTEC CONSORTIUM Assignment Name Implementation of a Regional Fisheries Strategy (IRFS) for ESA-IO Mission Schedule Number STE-XX – 424158 Coordinator Chris Short, KE3; Coordinator of RESULT 4: Regional Trade Strategy Technical Verifier Chris Short, KE3; Coordinator of RESULT 4: Regional Trade Strategy Background to assignment The IRFS programme (SmartFish) was launched in February 2011 with the aim of contributing to an increased level of social, economic and environmental development and deeper regional integration in the ESA-IO region through the sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources. There are 19 beneficiary countries in the programme which is financed by the EU under the 10th EDF within a total financial contribution of Euro 21 million. The programme is implemented by the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) in collaboration with the Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA), the East Africa Community (EAC) and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Other regional institutions are also involved including SADC, IOTC, SWIOFC, LVFO, and LTA. The first phase of the programme will be implemented over a period of 31 months (End February 2011- September 2013). The overall objective of the programme is to contribute to an increased level of social, economic and environmental development and deeper regional integration in the ESA-IO region through the sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources. The expected results and outcome of the programme falls into the following five categories: fisheries governance; fisheries management; monitoring, control and surveillance; regional fish trade and food security.

This assignment: under the mandate of the LOGFRAME 422154 provides support to Result 4 (regional fish trade component) of the project under activities related to developing diversification opportunities and increasing supplies of fish for trade. In this area, we are interested to understand how aquaponics can be utilized to support these activities in Mauritius and Rodrigues.

Diversification (of an industry/ sector) is a strategic term that refers to new possibilities to expand options beyond existing capabilities and resources. It speaks to developing new markets (new customers) and new products (innovation). Market diversification at the regional and/or international level is of interest for this study from the perspective of individual countries as a focus but with regional relevance in terms of demonstrating possibilities throughout the region.

Aquaponics is an integrated approach to producing fish using aquaculture techniques, whilst combining production systems with existing technology for hydroponic production of vegetables, fruits, herbs, etc. Whereas hydroponics is known to the region, very little activity has been undertaken with the combined approach. A study is envisaged that will identify the potential for Aquaponics as a commercial activity in selected countries. An overview (pre-feasibility level) study for Aquaponics is of interest to the SmartFish programme with respect to potential for diversification of the sector and enhancement of regional trade and food security.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 45 The assignment is to produce a document that may or may not stimulate further interest from the SmartFish programme and provide an outline of requirements and constraints for such investment in Mauritius and Seychelles. The ultimate objective of the assignment is to determine whether this sort of technological approach can be practically pursued at the small to medium sized commercial level and if so where the SmartFish programme can then assist in piloting/ training, promoting and enhancing the potential in selected countries, situations. Issues to be addressed The specific task is to: Prepare an assessment of the feasibility / appropriateness Expertise required: of Aquaponics as a production system for fish and other products in Mauritius Aquaponics production and define the requirements for piloting and communication of the opportunities specialist as a key diversification strategy for the sector. Activities of the Consultant The expert shall prepare a document that includes, but is not necessarily restricted to, the following outline table of contents: 1. What is Aquaponics? a. Technical requirements and constraints b. Description of typical systems 2. Review of existing hydroponics and aquaculture systems regionally a. What is in place, review success rates of systems identified, if any. b. Is there opportunity to adapt / enhance existing hydroponic systems to include fish production using Aquaponics systems? c. What contribution (revenues and costs) would Aquaponics make to an existing situation and how could that be achieved 3. Products and Markets a. Types of products that are produced using Aquaponics systems and appropriateness to the Mauritius /Small island economies b. Review of potential markets for Aquaponics production 4. Typical Investment requirements a. Financials i. Approximate capital costs to start and or integrate an operation with existing operations in Mauritius ii. Approximate operating costs for a small scale operation that might be suitable for small scale investment iii. Potential revenue / profits from such an operation 5. Recommended next steps for training, piloting and communication of the merits for diversification in the fisheries sector 6. Prepare and deliver a presentation to selected stakeholders in Mauritius and other invited guests from the region

final Reporting Prepare a draft report and following comments received prepare the final report for the assignment

Expected outputs The Expert shall produce a report demonstrating the work done, namely: a) Final Report The report to be produced using MS Word (and other MS Office software if necessary) and be available in hard copy and electronic form, both in Word (and other MS Office Programmes as appropriate) and all the elements together in single file pdf format.

46 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 - VARIOUS REPORT FORMATS TO BE AGREE WITH SUPERVISOR IN ADVANCE - Final Report to include: - MS Word Styles for IRFS Programme Reports and Technical Papers - Structure - Title pages in model format as per other Programme Reports – to be supplied - Table of contents, to three levels, formal format – to be agreed - List of annexes if appropriate - Tables of tables, figures and pictures all formal format - Abbreviations and acronyms - Layman’s summary (one paragraph encapsulating key elements that can be used in magazine/web i.e. not over technical) - Executive Summary (1 to 2 pages), in English, and French - Introduction - Main body of report divided into different sections as appropriate, normally Context, Methodology, Performance in relation to TOR, and Discussion (up to 20 pages) - Conclusions and recommendations (each recommendation must be preceded by a conclusion, that refers to a discussion in the main body of the report) - Annex 1 Terms of reference (if appropriate) - Annex 2 Schedule and people met (with contacts) - Annex 3 Aide Memoire (max. one page on execution of mission, findings, conclusions, and recommendations in bullet points) - Any other annex(es) as appropriate - Format as per PMU indications.

Report reviewed by Chris Short, Key Expert for Trade Result

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 47 Duration AQUAPONICS Specialist Days

(i) Desk Study, background research from home base 2 (ii) Travel to field 1 (iii) Field Mission to investigate collect data, 11 markets and production research, interviews with stakeholders, and officials (iv)Prepare and Deliver Presentation to stakeholders 1 in Mauritius with invited regional parties (IOC countries)

(v) Return to home base 1 (vi) Preparation and submission of draft report 5 (vii) Final report preparation after comments from 2 PMU/Stakeholders )viii(

(ix)

(x) Total 23 Total input days: 23 working days Start date :Approximate Start - June 2012

Completion dates Draft report Whilst on Mission, and following mission for Reports and fee payment schedule Comments from PCM Within 1 week after submission of draft report Final report Before End July 2012

Final report basis for relevant payments Experience and :Qualifications and skills qualification - fluency in one of French or English and working knowledge of other - Implementation of Communication plans - Demonstrated experience with Aquaponics technology, marketing, aquaculture systems, etc. - Experience working with EU projects an advantage

Locations and Home base + travel in region as required: travel Travel from: (Home base) >>Mauritius >>to (Home base)

:Requested Dominique Greboval Project Team Leader :Date

:Validated Léon Martial Harijhonse RAZAKA Programme Manager, for IOC- RAO :Date

48 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Annex 2 – Contacts

Contact Name Organization Address/Tel/E-mail Daroomalingum Mauree Director of Fisheries, Ministry of ,4th Floor, L.I.C. Building, John Kennedy Fisheries and Rodrigues Street, Port Luis, Mauritius. Tel: 230-208-7978 Email: [email protected]

S. Soondron Principal Fisheries Officer, Ministry of 4th Floor, L.I.C. Building, John Kennedy Fisheries and Rodrigues Street, Port Luis, Mauritius. Tel: 230-259-4434 Email: [email protected]

Mainza Kalonga Regional Rep, Zambia Smart Fish Jesse Brizmohun Tel: 230-250-0241, E-mail: [email protected]

Satish Hanoomanjee CEO Fisheries Investment Trust Tel: 230-713-2710 E-mail : [email protected]

Mehdi Rahimbaccus Hydrponics Village Grower, Secretary Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. of Village Hydroponic Multipurpose Tel: 230-795-6891, Cooperative Society E-mail: [email protected]

S. Khadun Scientific Officer, Fisheries Research Albion, Petit Riviere, Division, Albion Fisheries Research Tel: 230-753-5926, Centre, Ministry of Fisheries. E-mail: [email protected]

S.K. Ramsaha Scientific Officer, Aquaculture Division, Albion, Petit Riviere, Mauritius Albion Fisheries Research Centre, Ministry of Fisheries Devanand Norungee Principal Fisheries Officer, Fisheries Albion, Petit Riviere, Mauritius. Tel: 230- Division, Ministry of Fisheries, Albion 238-4925, 230-251-0744 Fisheries Research Centre, Ministry of E-mail :[email protected] Fisheries Pentiah Pramendra President of Village Hydroponic Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. Multipurpose Cooperative Society Tel: 230-743-1899, 230-780-1571 E-mail:[email protected]

Rudy Ellapen Scientific Officer, Agricultural Research Tel: 230-794-4795 and Extension Unit, Dept. of Agriculture E-mail [email protected]

Kaviraj Ballah Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. E-mail : [email protected]

Balraj Mudoo Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. E-mail : [email protected]

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 49 Anil Goburdhun Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Mauritius. E-mail : [email protected]

Yusuf Luttoo Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. Tel: 230-915-5054

Indiven Muthan Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. E-mail : [email protected]

Maryesh Babajee Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. Tel: 230-910-3771

Guybenthe Golee Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. E-mail : [email protected] Jadesh Ramdonee Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. E-mail : [email protected]

Christopher Bazenque Grower, Hydroponic Village, Cluny Hydroponic Village, Cluny, Mauritius. E-mail : [email protected]

Gansam Boodram Managing Director, Greenworld Co Ltd Solferino No. 1, Vacoas, Mauritius. Tel: 230-427-8113 E-mail : [email protected]

D. Y. Bachraz Manager, Greenworld Co. Ltd. Solferino No. 1, Vacoas, Mauritius K.H. Nandee H. K. & D Nandee Co. Ltd. 67 Palma Road, Quatre Bornes, Mauritius Tel: 230-424-3839 E-mail : [email protected]

Devalingum Nandee Director, Ethic Services 67 Palma Road, Quatre Bornes, Mauritius Tel: 230-427-6080 E-mail : [email protected]

50 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Annex 3 – References

Blueprint for a Sustainable Diversified Agri Food Strategy for Mauritius 2008-2015. 2008. Ministry of Agro- Industry and Fisheries, Fisheries Division, Mauritius, July 2008.

ECONOMIC COMMSION FOR AFRICA. 2009. The Status on Food Security in Africa. Committee on Food Security and Sustainable Development Sixth session, Regional Implementation Meeting for CSD-18, 27-30 October 2009. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

FAO. 2012. State of the World Fisheries and Aquaculture. FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS, Rome, 2012 Goodman, E. R. 2005. Aquaponics: Community and Economic Development. Masters Degree Thesis. Department of Urban Studies and Planning. Arizona State University. Lapere, P. 2010. A Techno-Economic Feasibility Study into Aquaponics in South Africa. Master Degree Thesis. Faculty of Engineering Department of Industrial Engineering University of Stellenbosch, South Africa.

Potential for Sustainable Aquaculture Development in Mauritius. 2007. Board of Investment. Ministry of Agro-Industry and Fisheries, Fisheries Division, Mauritius, Dec. 2007.

Rakocy, James, Bailey, D., Shultz, C., and Danaher, J. Fish and Vegetable Production in a Commercial Aquaponic System: 25 Years of Research at the University of the Virgin Islands University of the Virgin Islands, Agricultural Experiment Station, RR 1, Box 10,000 Kingshill, VI 00850 USA Rakocy, James, Bailey, D., Shultz, C., and Thoman, E. Update on Tilapia and Vegetable Production in the UVI Aquaponic System. University of the Virgin Islands, Agricultural Experiment Station, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerpoint Presentation.

Randall E. Brummett, Jérôme Lazard, John Moehl. 2008. African Aquaculture: Realizing the potential. Food Policy, Vol. 33, Issue 5, pp. 371-385

Savidov, Nick. 2004. Evaluation and Development of Aquaponics Production and Product Market Capabilities in Alberta Ids Initiatives Fund Final Report Project #679056201 August 17, 2004 .

Strategic Options in Crop Diversification and Livestock Sector (2007-2015) Ministry of Agro-Industry and Fisheries. Agriculture Division. August 2007

Subhrankar Mukherjee. 2011. CONCEPT NOTE: AQUAPONIC SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES To showcase sustainable food security initiatives in urban and village-based communities. Sankalpa Research Center SRC/ATD/AP.01 Revision 1, 25th August 2011

.Wilson, J. 2005. Greenhouse Aquaponics Proves Superior to Inorganic Hydroponics. Aquaponics Journal, Issue 39, 4th Quarter, 2005. www.aquaponicsjournal.com

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 51 ANNEX 4 – USEFUL WEB BASED INFORMATION

1. Hydroponics in Mauritius http://nawsheenh.blogspot.ca/2011/12/hydroponics-production-in-mauritius.html 2. Ten Guidelines for Aquaponic Systems http://aquaponicsglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Aquaponics-Journal-10-Guidelines.pdf 3. Friendly Aquaponics – Hawai http://www.friendlyaquaponics.com/do-it-myself-systems/commercial-system/ 4. Aquaponics Common Sense Guide http://www.backyardaquaponics.com/Travis/Aquaponics_Common_Sense_Guide.pdf 5. Aquaponics for Fun and Profit! http://deniseclarke.hubpages.com/hub/Aquaponics-for-Fun-and-Profit 6. AQUAPONIC SYSTEMS http://diyaquaponics.com/aqua_plans.php 7. Aquaponics in Rural Kenya http://www.amshaafrica.org/projects-and-clients/current-projects/aquaponics-in-rural-kenya.html 8. Portable Farms Aquaponic Systems http://portablefarm.com/farm/portable-farms-aquaponics-systems/ 9. Barrel Ponics. Faith and Sustainable Technologies. http://www.fastonline.org/content/blogsection/8/32/ 10. Starting Up and Aquaponics Systems Using Fish http://theaquaponicsource.com/2011/02/07/starting-up-cycling-an-aquaponics-system-using-fish/

52 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 Annex 5 – Financial Summary

Assumptions

Area of Greenhouse 900m2 Crop produced Tomatoes Planting density 2.5 plants/m2 Annual yield 20 kg/plant/yr Volume of fish tanks 7.8 m3 each No. of Fish tanks 7 Max stocking density of fish 60 kg/m3 Annual yield 1,125 kg/tank/yr Total power 6.5 kw Total power per year 42,120

Capital Costs Quantity Unit cost (Rs) Total Cost (Rs) Land, water, power Already existing Greenhouse c/w ground 900 m2 2,000/m2 1,800,000 cover Fish tanks 7 45,000/tank 315,000 Plant grow beds c/w 100 1,500 150,000 gravel PVC plumbing – supply 7 50,000 350,000 and drainage pipe work and fittings Pumps 7 24,000 168,000 Air blowers 3 36,000 108,000 Other (5%) 1 143,550 143,550 Contingency (10%) 1 303,555 303,555

Total 3,339,105

Operating Financial Summary Revenues Quantity Unit Price (Rs/kg) Total (Rs) Tomatoes 45,000 kg 50 2,250,000 Tilapia 7,875 kg 100 787,500 Sub-total 3,037,500

Operating Costs Quantity )Unit Cost (Rs Labour – 4 persons 48 persons/months/yr 7,000/mo 336,000

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 53 Fish Feed 11,812 kg/yr 30/kg 354,360 Power 42,120 kw-h/yr 5.4/kw-h 227,448 Plant seeds (incl. 10% 2,475 15/seed 37,125 loss) Fish fingerlings (incl. 5% 16,538 1.25/fingerling 20,672 loss) pH balancing chemicals 500 kg/yr 50/kg 25,000 Trellis ropes 4 rolls 1,500/roll 6,000 Seed trays 30 60/tray 1,800 Water (m3/yr) 300 10/m3 3,000 Incidentals (5%) 5% of other costs 50,570 Contingency (10%) 10% of total costs 106,198 Sub-total 1,168,173

Net Revenues 1,869,327

This analysis does not include borrowing costs or remuneration for the owner. In Mauritius the current loan conditions from the Government for this type of development are repayment over a 7 year period with a 2 year grace period. A summary of a possible financing scenario is presented below.

Financing scenario Items Greenhouse required Existing Greenhouse )Total Cost (Rs Capital required 3,339,105 1,359,105 Working capital first six 585,910 585,910 1,800,000 months Total capital required 3,925,015 1,945,015 315,000 Investment (25%) 981,254 486,254 150,000 Loan (75%) 2,943,761 1,458,761 350,000 Repayment term 7 years 7 years 168,000 Grace period 2 years 2 years 108,000 Annual interest rate 9% 9% 143,550 Monthly loan payment (60 61,107 30,281 303,555 months) Annual loan payments 733,284 363,372 3,339,105 Net Revenues 1,869,327 1,869,327 Annual Loan payments 733,284 363,372 Revenues before taxes 1,136,043 1,505,955

54 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 ANNEX 6 – DRAWINGS

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 55

56 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 LIST OF PUBLICATIONS – LISTE DES PUBLICATIONS

SmartFish Programme

1. Report of the Inception / Focal Point Meeting of the SmartFish Programme – Flic en Flac, Mauritius, 15th-16th June 2011. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/01. August/Août 2011. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

2. Report of the First Steering Committee Meeting of the SmartFish Programme – Flic en Flac, Mauritius,17th June 2011. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/02. August/Août 2011. SmartFish Programme Indian Ocean Commission.

3. Rapport de la réunion de présentation du programme SmartFish aux points focaux – Flic en Flac, Ile Maurice, 15-16 juin 2011. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/03. August/Août 2011. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

4. Eco-Certification for the Tuna Industry, Technical Assistance for Implementation of a Regional Fisheries Strategy for ESA-IO (IRFS). REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/04. May 2011. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

5. Regional Market Assessment (Supply and Demand). REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/05. March/Mars 2012. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

6. Trade Assessment Study. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/06. March/Mars 2012. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

7. Gouvernance des Pêches Maritimes dans l’Ouest de l’Océan Indien. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/07. June/Juin 2012. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

8. Value Chain Assessment of the Artisanal Fisheries – Mauritius. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/08. June/Juin 2012. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

9. Kenya Fisheries Governance. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/09. June/Juin 2012. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

10. Training Needs Analysis – Quality and Hygiene: REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/10. June/Juin 2012. SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

11. A Review of Somalia’s & (Semi-Autonomous Regions) Fisheries Legislation and Management. REPORT RAPPORT: SF/2012/11. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

12. Assessment of IUU Activities On Lake Victoria. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/12. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

13. Review Of The Legal Framework for the ESA-IO Region. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/13. June/ Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

14. Comprehensive capacity review to implement effective MCS in the ESA-IO Region. REPORT/ RAPPORT: SF/2012/14. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

15. Assessment of IUU Fishing in Lake Tanganyika. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/15. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 57 16. Spirulina – A Livelihood and a Business Venture. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/16. SmartFish Programme. June/Juin 2012 Indian Ocean Commission.

17. Diversification Study (Eco-Tourism and Recreational Fisheries). REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/17. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

18. Value Chain Analysis of Fisheries Sector for Rodrigues. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/18. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

19. Dagaa Value Chain Analysis and Proposal for Trade Development. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/19. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

20. Operationalization of Fish Auction Market. (Feasibility Study). REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/20. December/Décembre 2011 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

21. Options to Reduce IUU Fishing in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zanzibar: REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/21. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

22. Revitalization of Fisheries Research in Mauritius. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/22. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

23. Preparation of Draft Kenya Fisheries Management and Development Bill: REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/23. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

24. Une Analyse Globale de la Chaîne D’approvisionnement de la Pêcherie du Crabe de Mangrove (Scylla serrate) à Madagasar. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/24. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

25. Analyse Globale de la Gouvernance et de la chaîne D’approvisionnement de la Pêcherie du concombre de mer à Madagasar. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/25. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

26. Processing and Marketing of Small-Sized Pelagics in Eastern and Southern Africa. REPORT/ RAPPORT: SF/2012/26. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

27. Report of the Second Steering Committee Meeting of the SmartFish Programme. REPORT/ RAPPORT: SF/2011/27. August/Août 2012. SmartFish Programme Indian Ocean Commission.

28. The Farming of Seaweeds. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/28. August/Août 2012. SmartFish Programme Indian Ocean Commission.

29. Culture d’Algues Marines. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/29. August/Août 2012. SmartFish Programme Indian Ocean Commission.

30. Report of the Focal Point Meeting of the SmartFish Programme – Livingstone, Zambia, 28th – 29th February 2012. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2011/30. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

31. Appui a l’Elaboration d’une Strategie Nationale de Bonne Gouvernance des Peches Maritimes a Madagascar. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/31. June/Juin 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

32. A Review of Bycatch and Discard Issues in Indian Ocean Tuna Fisheries. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/32. 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

58 SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 33. The Feasibility of Aquaponics in Mauritius. REPORT/RAPPORT: SF/2012/33. August/Août 2012 SmartFish Programme. Indian Ocean Commission.

SmartFish Programme Report SF/2013/33 59