Abstract

This study examines the potential for integrating aquaculture and marine conservation as a unique approach to restoring coastal ecosystems. Historically, the two fields have been considered at odds with one another. Nevertheless, restorative aquaculture is slowly undergoing a paradigm shift, supporting the notion that the cultivation of particular species can provide and improve ecosystem services (i.e., water purification, coastal protection, and habitat provision). This study has focused on the cultivation of particular species, bivalves (shellfish) and seaweeds. The study identifies opportunities with specific aquaculture practices, such as oyster reefs and wetlands, to support restoration of coastal ecosystems. We have proposed a conceptual model that adds our experience with the principles of ecological engineering to the aquaculture practices of directed ecosystem engineering, bivalve and macroalgae aquaculture, and other forms of sustainable aquaculture. This study focuses particularly on the workability of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) systems to produce environmental net gains by minimizing nutrient discharge. This study also emphasizes restorative value, performance, and integrated aquaculture conservation, rather than the rest, as the primary focus, aimed at providing evidence for robust, constructive policy and practice that supports them. These results suggest that synergies of this type can generate socioeconomic value while also providing ecological security against climate change and coastal erosion.

Keywords: Restorative aquaculture, Marine conservation, Ecosystem restoration, Coastal synergies, Resilience