The influences of shrimp farming and fishing practices on natural fish conservation in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Research Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)Shrimp farming and capture fishery are two of the major industries of Can Gio district, Ho Chi Minh City, southern Vietnam. These industries have recently developed and contributed to the improvement of local economy. However, they have also raised environmental concerns regarding water pollution and fish stock depletion. The negative impacts of shrimp farm effluents on the water quality of mainstream rivers and fish communities have not been studied in Can Gio. Additionally, there is a lack of research on the influence of the current fisheries management on environmental protection and fish conservation in this district. The goal of this study was to address key issues in fisheries management in Can Gio in regard to the impacts of wastewater from shrimp farming on the water quality of mainstream rivers that affect the local fish communities, and the influence of improper fishing practices that lead to the depletion of local fish stocks. This study also aimed to propose strategies to improve the local fisheries management for more environmentally responsible productions. Two mainstream surveys were developed to obtain data, i.e. environmental surveys for the assessment of water quality and pollution impacts on fish communities; and people interviews for the examination of fisheries management related to shrimp farming and fishing practices. The findings were used as a baseline to develop appropriate strategies for improving the management in terms of promoting sustainable productions both in shrimp farming and capture fishery industries and protecting the environment. This study found that shrimp farming, especially intensive farms have contributed to water pollution in mainstream rivers in Can Gio, and in turn the water pollution has adversely affected the local fish communities. The waters adjacent to the intensive farms were contaminated with high concentrations of organic matter. The number of fish species reduced and tolerant species appeared at higher proportions in these areas. Many improper practices in shrimp farming and fishing as well as weaknesses in government management were addressed to be the key issues leading to environmental pollution and fish depletion. The proposed strategies focused on improving the management at both government and community levels. Promoting community-based management was suggested as a key to the success in fisheries management in Can Gio