Inland pond aquaculture in PNG - assessment of the industry and evaluation of small holder research and development needs

• Department of Agriculture and Livestock, Papua New Guinea
• National Fisheries Authority, Papua New Guinea
• Highlands Aquaculture Development Centre, Papua New Guinea

Pond aquaculture is one of the fastest growing forms of agriculture inland in Papua New Guinea, and an important contributor to family nutrition and income in some of its more populous and protein-deficient regions. At the commencement of the project scientists estimated there were 6000 fish farms active, making them of growing importance within sections of PNG's national planning process. This project is determining the status of inland pond aquaculture in PNG through a comprehensive survey of the industry and a desktop study of recent reports. At the start researchers held a training workshop for technical assistants, and towards the end presented a stakeholders workshop. Researchers and fisheries administrators are gaining a clearer picture of the structure of the industry and the areas in need of resources. The project is helping ACIAR and other research donors to determine the priority issues to target for developing a sustainable industry.