A Review on Aquaculture Development in Iran

Global aquaculture production has more than tripled during the last 15 years, and aquaculture is expected to account an increasing share in global seafood production. There are large differences among countries in the rate of growth and development of aquaculture. This review tries to explain the progress and problems of aquaculture during three last decades in Iran. The total production of Iran from aquaculture was 25,800 tons in 1994, approximately 8 percent of the total fisheries production. However, by 2008 it increased to more than 154,000 tons; 27% of total fisheries production. During the last decade, production share of different species in Iran has been variable. In the years 1998 and 2008 the highest percentage of aquaculture production was belonged to silver carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (50%) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss; 40%), respectively. The results showed that culture of rainbow trout has grown noticeably in the past two decades. At present, Iran has been acquired the first rank of rainbow trout culture in fresh water of the world. But in contrast, in recent decade shrimp aquaculture industry has failed due to white spot syndrome. Coastal and inland waters of Iran have more potential for aquaculture development. Recently, great sturgeon Huso huso and some species of barbus family have aroused interest from government and private enterprises for potential aquaculture use. Although aquaculture of Iran has shown a significant growth in the last decade, but it is concluded by introducing new species and overcome to present aquaculture problems in the country, the aquaculture production will be increased to several times.