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As a young person, you grew up in a fishing town along the West Coast of South Africa - NSC Marine Sciences - Question 5 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 5
As a young person, you grew up in a fishing town along the West Coast of South Africa. Since then you have left the town to study and your studies focused on aquacul... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:As a young person, you grew up in a fishing town along the West Coast of South Africa - NSC Marine Sciences - Question 5 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe aquaculture to the community.
Answer
Aquaculture refers to the farming of freshwater and saltwater organisms in controlled or semi-controlled environments. It involves the breeding, rearing, feeding, and harvesting of these organisms. Aquaculture allows us to manage the entire life cycle of aquatic species while ensuring the water quality is maintained through careful monitoring of factors like temperature, pH, and salinity. This method can enhance food production and contribute to sustainable practices.
Step 2
Inform the community about TWO socio-economic benefits of aquaculture, OTHER than food security.
Answer
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Improve Nutrition: In areas where poverty and malnutrition are prevalent, aquaculture can serve as a vital source of nutritious food. Fish are high in essential fatty acids and proteins critical for a balanced diet, which can significantly alleviate health issues in under-resourced communities.
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Increase Employment: Aquaculture creates numerous job opportunities for residents, including roles for farmers, laborers, and those in management and transport. This industry can also provide training and education, helping to uplift the social status of the town.
Step 3
Raise concerns about how aquaculture could result in further risk to local fisheries.
Answer
Aquaculture can pose several risks to local fisheries. The potential for inbreeding may harm the genetic integrity of fish stocks, compromising their adaptive capabilities. Additionally, the increased demand for fish feed may lead to overexploitation of wild fish species used as feed, which might reduce wild fish populations. Furthermore, the introduction of non-native species in aquaculture can lead to ecological imbalances by outcompeting local species.
Step 4
Critically evaluate whether aquaculture will provide food security in the town.
Answer
Aquaculture has the potential to provide food security in the town due to its ability to produce a stable supply of seafood independently of wild fish stocks. However, careful management and planning are essential to ensure that the development of aquaculture does not undermine existing fisheries or disrupt local ecosystems. By doing so, aquaculture can supplement local diets and support economic growth, yet this must be balanced with environmental considerations.
Step 5
In your conclusion, motivate whether you (as a previous resident of the town) will recommend the proposed aquaculture industry.
Answer
In conclusion, I would recommend the proposed aquaculture industry, provided that it is implemented with strict regulations and community involvement. The potential for improved nutrition and job creation is substantial, and if managed responsibly, aquaculture could contribute to the economic stability of the town while addressing food security challenges. However, it is critical to continuously assess its environmental impact and ensure sustainable practices are followed.