ABSTRACT
As in many parts of the world, aquaculture production in the Mediterranean has been expanding rapidly over recent years (Basurco and Lovatelli, 2003). Mediterranean aquaculture is based on the production of a few species, the most important being sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax), gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata), mullet (Mugil spp.), mussels (Mytilus spp.), clams (Tapes spp.), as well as rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in inland waters. Recent research and technological development has given rise to at least 33 new Mediterranean species being reported as suitable to “leave the laboratories” and be produced on a commercial scale. However, not all of these species are being taken up by the sector (Saroglia and Basurco, 2006). To meet future demands for foodfi sh supplies, aquaculture production needs to increase by 50 million MT by the year 2050 (Tacon and Forster, 2001). However, the increasing number of fi sh culture industries in Mediterranean areas has begun to create serious environmental problems due to the impact caused by fi sh farming waste (FAO, 2002).
