Feasibility of a project for active restocking of the sea adjacent the salt pans of Tarquinia (Italy)

Abstract

The depletion of fish stocks in the Mediterranean suggests that restocking may be a useful approach for restoring fisheries. In this paper we consider the potential for using derelict salt pans at Tarquinia (50 miles north of Rome) to rear fish for restocking in adjacent coastal areas. We discuss candidate species for stock enhancement, ways of minimizing stress in the capture of broodstock, genetic monitoring of wild catches, various aspects of operational restocking (release stage of larvae or juveniles, etc) and suggest approaches for evaluating results. Finally, we provide an economic and financial analysis of investment costs and likely benefits for different scenarios, and guidelines for a restocking policy that may be implemented by public authorities.