Published on 22 November 2024
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Studies in New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf and the Gulf of Maine (U.S.) reveal that mussel and seaweed farms not only support marine biodiversity but also increase wild fish populations. Collaborative research from Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland and the University of New England, which was featured on 28 May 2024 on the University of Auckland official website, supported by The Nature Conservancy, assessed marine ecosystems near mussel and kelp farms, comparing them to non-farmed sites.
Professor Andrew Jeffs from the University of Auckland shared that marine species near these aquaculture farms displayed greater diversity and abundance. Fish, like New Zealand’s green-lipped mussels, also consumed more nutritious diets near farm sites. Professor Jeffs explained that the results suggest mussel and kelp farms can provide essential habitats and food sources, bolstering biodiversity and fisheries productivity when implemented in the right locations.
Bridging knowledge gaps in Aquaculture's ecosystem benefits
Dr Rob Major of The Nature Conservancy Aotearoa New Zealand highlighted that this research is a pioneering effort to help quantify aquaculture’s value as a habitat. Additionally, measuring habitat benefits in Maine and Aotearoa fills a critical knowledge gap about the impacts of seaweed and shellfish farming in cold-water ecosystems.
Findings in Maine also underscore the importance of local context and timing. For instance, during the seasonal kelp farming period (October to May), there were no significant differences in species diversity between farm and non-farm sites. However, as Dr Carrie Byron from the University of New England observed, these farms offer some restorative or regenerative benefits that can help buffer against climate change impacts.
Social acceptability and consumer perceptions
The future of aquaculture depends on its social license to operate and consumer recognition of its ecosystem benefits. Research involving the University of New England, the University of Massachusetts, and Stanford University found that U.S. consumers are willing to pay more for seaweed products after learning about the ecosystem services associated with seaweed farming.
Dr Heidi Alleway of The Nature Conservancy noted this consumer willingness to support sustainable aquaculture justifies further exploration into its ecosystem services, unlocking aquaculture’s full environmental potential. This groundbreaking research highlights how aquaculture, when carefully managed, can contribute to environmental restoration, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable economic development.
Learn more about Seaweed Aquaculture as Habitat – Watch the video!
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