Abstract

With increasing utilization of coastal habitat and with globalization of markets, the risk of changing the environment irreversibly to the detriment of all users is constantly increasing. This can be seen in changes of biodiversity at a local, regional and global level. Examples will be provided in particular of site specific changes of biodiversity, indices of which may be utilized in limiting coastal cage farms.

Biodiversity changes also occur due to ballast water transfer of exotic species, parasites and disease agents which affect aquaculture. In particular, resting cysts from harmful algal species transmitted in the sediments of ballast tanks must be seen as a global threat to local aquaculture and fisheries around the globe. Examples of such negative effect in changing (enrichment rather than loss of biodiversity) will be given.

Finally, the educational needs will be addressed to create more awareness among stakeholders concerning their needs in the protection of the common water resource.