Potency and Strategy of Aquaculture Development in Rokan Hilir Regency, Province of Riau, Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract Rokan Hilir Regency is situated east coast of Sumatera in Riau Province. Fish production of the area dominated by capture fisheries (80.67%) compared to aquaculture production (19.33%), however, there is a demand for strengthening the role of aquacuture. This study aimed to analyze the prospects and strategies for developing aquaculture in this area. Primary data was obtained by measuring of water quality, observations of aquaculture objects and other supporting facilities. Interviews and discussion were conducted with fish farmers, community leaders, the fishing industry, local government officials and other stakeholders. Secondary data were obtained from government and private institutions. This area has the potential for freshwater aquaculture of 102.80 ha, brackishwater aquaculture of 3,049.25 ha, and marine aquaculture of 118.330 ha. In 2019, aquaculture only utilized an area of around 2,879,107 ha, including 47,107 ha of freshwater (ponds), 10 ha of brackish, and 2,822 ha of shellfish ponds. Aquaculture production in 2019 was 15,006.34 tons consisting of fish production from ponds (blood clams and shrimp) 9,009.34 tons which was the main production, followed by fish production from ponds of 5,997 tons. In coastal waters, it is recommended to cultivate blood cockles and Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). While in inland waters, the recommended fish culture included tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), striped catfish (Pangasianodon sp), kissing gouramy (Osphronemus sp), and African catfish (Clarias gariepenus), both in ponds and floating net cages. The recommended development strategies include; training on aquaculture human resources, training on making their own feed, building seed and brood centers, and providing business stimulants in the form of seeds, making ponds and floating net cages as well as sustainable guidance from the fisheries industry and the government.