Sturgeon Aquaculture Potentiality in Egypt in View of the Global Development of Aquaculture and Fisheries Conservation Techniques: An Overview and Outlook

Abstract

Sturgeon conservation is a global issue, with wild sturgeon amounts dropping rapidly and continuously. This article explores the essential role that aquaculture plays in the conservation of these critically endangered fish, the replenishing of the natural population, fulfilling the expanding demand and possibilities for caviar markets, and reducing pressure on fisheries’ catch. It also reviews the history of controlled breeding programs designed to supplement wild Caspian Sea populations, the possibilities for sturgeon aquaculture production, and the worldwide caviar trade industry in the coming years. Globally, the successful and profitable expansion of captive sturgeon farming over the last three decades has fulfilled the consumer market's demand for caviar and meat, resulting in a considerable decline in the global caviar price. Given the presence of successful sturgeon farming in the Arabian Gulf region (Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates), the prospect of introducing the sturgeon farming industry in Egypt is underlined. In comparison to other nations in the region, Egypt has excellent prospects for establishing such an aquaculture business, as Egypt's aquaculture sector is by far the largest in Africa and the sixth largest internationally. Furthermore, the availability of qualified workers, the diversity of water sources, and Egypt's moderate climate and environment increase the likelihood of successful sturgeon farming.