Shrimp Farming Nicaragua, 2001

Despite early recognition of Nicaragua’s tremendous natural resources and potential for aquaculture, it wasn’t until 1988, with a study funded by the FAO, that a primary evaluation was made of estuarine areas on the Pacific Coast suitable for aquaculture. These figures were verified by a second study carried out in 1992, but it wasn’t until 1994, with funding from (EU) European Union , that a more detailed study was completed. The objective of this study was to determine the carrying capacity of the Estero Real in order to develop a land use policy to protect the environment and mitigate the potential negative environmental impact of aquaculture on the system For the last few years (from 1994 – 1998), shrimp culture grew at a rate of over 150% annually, however in 1999, shrimp culture declined due to the combined effects of Mitch and the White Spot Viral infection. 2001 production levels were 8.8 million pounds, from which only 7.4 millions pounds were exported with a value of US$21,262,975; a 30% fall in exports from 1998 levels For the last few years (from 1994 – 1998), shrimp culture grew at a rate of over 150% annually, however in 1999, shrimp culture declined due to the combined effects of Mitch and the White Spot Viral infection. 2001 production levels were 8.8 million pounds, from which only 7.4 millions pounds were exported with a value of US$21,262,975; a 30% fall in exports from 1998 level