Thailand

Collaborating Institutions

University of Michigan

James Diana
C. Kwei Lin


Asian Institute of Technology


PI to be named

Introduction

Proposed studies will concentrate on three areas of emphasis: environmental impacts of aquaculture, production optimization, and human capacity development. All research activities have been selected for their strong regional importance. The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), an important regional training center, provides not only excellent research facilities but also regional networking opportunities for outreach activities. The CRSP will collaborate with AITs extensive outreach network in order to extend research results throughout continental SE Asia.

CRSP research on semi-intensive culture of tilapia continues with work on mud turbidity, pond draining, supplemental feeding, and nutrient regeneration in pond bottoms, all of which are related to farmer practices in the wet and dry seasonal climates of the region. Outreach activities focus on aquaculture practices in rainfed ponds. In addition, two studies described in the section titled "Cross-cutting Research" will be conducted in collaboration with the principal investigators of the following work plans: "Pond soil characteristics and dynamics of organic matter and nutrients"; and "Socioeconomic dimensions of aquaculture development: A comparative assessment of implementation processes, adoption barriers, and impacts of aquaculture technology."

The research described below addresses several constraints mentioned in the PD/A CRSP Continuation Plan 1996-2001. One major research priority is in the area of environmental impacts and effluent control. Other experiments attempt to further improve biological and technological knowledge of pond systems, specifically pond dynamics and the use of organic fertilizers in production systems. Supplementary activities concentrate on human capacity development, especially extension of aquaculture information to local farmers in the region.

Investigations to be Conduted

1. Effects of Mud Turbidity on Fertilization and an Analysis of Techniques to Mitigate Turbidity Problems
2. Management of Organic Matter and Nutrient Regeneration in Pond Bottoms
3. Management to Minimize the Environmental Impacts of Pond Draining
4. Technical Transfer from On-Station Research to Producers