Ocean ranching refers to the practice of cultivating and managing marine species in controlled environments to enhance their populations and ensure sustainable harvesting. Unlike traditional fisheries, where wild stocks are exploited directly from their natural habitats, ocean ranching involves the release of hatchery-raised or captive-bred organisms into the ocean. This method aims to boost the abundance of targeted species, such as fish or shellfish, while allowing for a more controlled and regulated approach to resource management. In the context of ocean ranching, the term “aqua-cowboys” is often used to describe individuals or groups involved in the ranching process. These aqua-cowboys play a crucial role in activities like capturing, raising, and releasing aquatic species, employing techniques that mirror aspects of traditional cattle ranching but are adapted to the marine environment. Their efforts contribute to sustainable fisheries, conservation, and the restoration of marine ecosystems.
Answer
Ocean Ranching or Ocean Husbandry refers to the taming, harvesting, and training of Sea Mammals like Porpoise, Dolphins, Whales etc in Marine Environment.
TWO KINDS OF OCEAN RANCHING:-
| PURE OCEAN RANCHING | STOCK ENHANCEMENT OCEAN RANCHING |
| Fishes are intended to be harvested by the Releasing Agency itself. | Fishes are harvested other than the Releasing Agency. |
“Aquacowboys” are divers and local fishermen who regulate such rearing processes. They are in charge of ensuring safety from outside fisheries, No pollution zones, and Proper Harvest.
Some areas have Dolphins and Porpoises trained as Aquacowboys to help divers, to carry and bring back tools for repair of Anchored ships, relief works, etc.
‘Importance of Ocean and its Resources’ is the topic of the World and various initiatives such as BLUE GROWTH to enable fisheries and Aquaculture for UN SDGs 14 related to Conservation and Sustainable Development of Ocean, Seas, and Marine Resources are under process. Indian Initiatives such as PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, Palk Bay Scheme, Blue Economy, and Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Funds are steps in the right direction.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
