Oman has successfully started the development of integrated agriculture-aquaculture (IAA) production systems, particularly aquaponics, in rural and water- scarce areas. Based on existing literature review, there is limited information on integrated agriculture-aquaculture (IAA) in Oman. The present study was conducted with the aim of documenting the current status of IAA in the Sultanate of Oman and describe beliefs and awareness, knowledge, socio-economic characteristics and challenges as well as future plans of the farmers regarding the development of their activities. An online questionnaire survey was created and administered to all farmers engaged in IAA. The survey information was then checked for missing, unclear and/or doubting information, which were filled/cleared by phone or personal communication by researchers.
Results showed that around 57% of participants are practicing integrated aquaculture (non-recirculating aquaponic system) and 43% are practicing recirculating aquaponics. Integrated aquaculture farms discharge an average of 187 ± 239 (SD) m3 of water per day from fish tanks to irrigate the plants. An average of 37% reduction in fertilizer use was reported by the four integrated farms. Except for one, all farms surveyed use ground water for farming. One farm uses water provided by the government for residential houses. Among those who use groundwater from the wells, one farm uses ‘falaj’ water. Tilapia is the only fish cultured in IAA systems in Oman. Cucumber is the major commercial crop from integrated aquaculture while lettuce is the major crop followed by basil, in recirculating aquaponic system.
Lack of experience and skilled labor are among the major challenges encountered in operating aquaponics system followed by lack of marketing and administrative support and then lack of fish feed and feed factory. Despite these challenges, there is a high willingness and readiness to further invest in IAA particularly aquaponics and this indicates a promising prospects for the future development of these systems in the Sultanate. Considering that Oman suffers from scarce freshwater supply and is concerned with environmental impacts, IAA system is highly recommended as a promising of on-conventional source of water to address water scarcity. Government authorities are encouraged to 1) promote IAA particularly aquaponics as a business, considering that it can be profitable and is environmentally-friendly, 2) minimize the constraints and challenges by providing the needed support services including mainly feed manufacturing that will strengthen the aquaculture sector in Oman, as currently feeds are imported, and 3) provide additional funding and promote national and international collaboration and investment partnership to further develop an aquaponic technology that is profitable and suitable for Oman.