Tunisia Case Study: Offshore Finfish Cage-Farming and the Marine Protected Area of the Kuriat Islands in Monastir Bay

This study examines the coexistence of offshore finfish aquaculture and marine conservation in Tunisia's Monastir Bay, focusing on the Kuriat Islands Marine Protected Area (MPA). The report explores the interactions between aquaculture activities and the MPA to identify sustainable practices that support both marine conservation and local economies. The study underscores the importance of integrating biodiversity conservation with sustainable development goals, addressing challenges, and proposing solutions to balance these interests.

The Kuriat Islands, located in Monastir Bay, are characterized by rich biodiversity, including Posidonia oceanica meadows, Cystoseira forests, and loggerhead turtle nesting sites. Recognized as ecologically significant, the islands became the focus of conservation efforts, leading to the establishment of an MPA. The area is divided into zones for strict protection, buffer, and transition, ensuring the preservation of critical habitats while allowing limited human activities.

Aquaculture, introduced in the region in 2008, includes floating cages for sea bass and sea bream. This sector has grown significantly, contributing to local employment and food production. However, challenges such as high production costs, environmental impacts, and conflicts with traditional fishing and tourism have emerged. Measures such as better site selection, environmental monitoring, and legal frameworks have been proposed to enhance sustainability.

The study highlights positive interactions, such as aquaculture creating nursery grounds for marine species and supporting economic development. It also notes negative effects, including habitat degradation and initial public resistance. Through collaborative efforts, such as spatial planning and stakeholder engagement, these issues have been partially addressed.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for aquaculture, with reduced production and exports. However, the MPA benefited from decreased human activity, leading to increased loggerhead turtle nesting and improved biodiversity conditions.

In conclusion, the study illustrates the potential for sustainable aquaculture to coexist with marine conservation through effective governance, participatory approaches, and environmental monitoring. The findings emphasize the need for continued efforts to align economic and ecological objectives in Monastir Bay.