International Journal of Marine Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 245-254 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ijms 246 2 Overview of Sea Ranching Techniques 2.1 Traditional sea ranching methods Traditional sea ranching methods for sea cucumbers have primarily involved the use of sea pens and other containment systems to protect juveniles from predators and environmental stressors. For instance, in Papua New Guinea, hatchery-cultured juveniles of Holothuria scabra were released into sea pens within seagrass meadows. These pens were managed by local wardens, and various levels of protection were tested to improve survival rates. However, short-term cage protection did not significantly enhance survival, indicating the need for further research to identify optimal conditions for sea ranching (Hair et al., 2016). Similarly, in Indonesia, sea pens were used to ranch Holothuria atra, showing promising results with high survival rates and good adaptation to the new environment (Hartati et al., 2021). 2.2 Modern innovations Modern innovations in sea ranching techniques have focused on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of juvenile release methods and integrating sea cucumber aquaculture with other marine farming practices. In northern Australia, researchers developed a chute release method for Holothuria scabra juveniles, which proved superior to traditional cage methods in terms of recovery rates and cost-effectiveness (Taylor et al., 2016). Additionally, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems have been explored, where sea cucumbers are co-cultured with other species like red drum to utilize waste products and improve overall farm sustainability. Although current stocking densities limit the full potential of IMTA, it shows promise for reducing environmental impacts and enhancing bioremediation (Chary et al., 2020). 2.3 Comparative analysis Comparing traditional and modern sea ranching techniques reveals several key insights. Traditional methods, such as the use of sea pens, have been effective in certain contexts but often require significant management and may not always yield high survival rates (Hair et al., 2016; Hartati et al., 2021). Modern innovations, like the chute release method, offer improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness, making them more suitable for high-energy environments (Taylor et al., 2016). Furthermore, the integration of sea cucumbers into IMTA systems represents a forward-thinking approach to sustainable aquaculture, although it requires further optimization to maximize benefits (Chary et al., 2020). The evolution from traditional to modern sea ranching techniques highlights the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation to local environmental conditions. By leveraging both traditional knowledge and modern technological advancements, sustainable sea cucumber aquaculture can be achieved, contributing to the conservation of natural stocks and the economic development of coastal communities (Xu et al., 2022). 3 Habitat Selection and Management 3.1 Criteria for habitat selection Selecting an appropriate habitat is crucial for the success of sea cucumber ranching. The habitat must support the growth and survival of sea cucumbers while minimizing environmental impacts. Key criteria for habitat selection include biophysical parameters, environmental stability, and ecosystem compatibility. For biophysical parameters, the habitat should have suitable water quality, substrate type, and availability of natural food sources. For example, a study in Papua New Guinea found that despite meeting all considered criteria for suitable release habitat, one site experienced total loss of juveniles, indicating the complexity of habitat suitability (Hair et al., 2016). For environmental stability, the habitat should be stable and free from extreme environmental conditions. High-energy environments, such as those in northern Australia, pose challenges for sea cucumber ranching, necessitating the development of specialized release techniques to ensure survival (Taylor et al., 2016). Regarding ecosystem compatibility, the habitat should meet the ecological requirements of the sea cucumber species. For instance, sea ranching of Stichopus monotuberculatus in a tropical coral reef island area in China demonstrated the importance of acclimating juveniles to the new environment to improve survival rates (Xu et al., 2022).
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