| Abstract |
The five mediterranean Maghreb countries (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt) present similar natural characteristics which explain numerous observations about seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax)and seabream (Sparus aurata) production and market. From the Atlantic coast to the Suez canal, if the coastline is not favourable to aquaculture, as safe moorings in sheltered bays are limited, several lagoons (300 000 ha) and brackishwater lakes (400 000 ha) are available. Traditionally, local consumption of seafood is low (4-8 kg/capita/year) and tourism industry, when active, doesn't ask for such high quality fish. Consequently, export to European Union, and mainly to Italy, is the first target of all seabass and seabream producers. Production technologies range from semi-extensive systems (Egypt) to intensive farms using cages or ponds (Morocco and Tunisia). |
