Riyadh, December 28, 2024 — A groundbreaking research collaboration between King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and King Abdulaziz University (KAU) has successfully pioneered trout cultivation at KACST’s research station in Al-Muzahmiyya Governorate. This innovative project, supported by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture’s national livestock and fisheries development program, is part of a broader national initiative aimed at enhancing food security in Saudi Arabia.
The project utilizes a cutting-edge recirculating aquaculture system (RAS), a sustainable and efficient fish farming technology that plays a pivotal role in boosting the Kingdom’s local fish production. By introducing new fish species capable of thriving in diverse environmental conditions, the project seeks to address the growing demand for fish while ensuring the sustainability of supply. Specifically, trout, a cold-water fish known for its high nutritional value—rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins—has been selected for local farming to meet the increasing consumer demand.
One of the primary objectives of this collaboration is to help Saudi Arabia achieve food security by increasing the supply of nutritious fish species. As part of the Vision 2030 objectives, the project aims to boost local fish production to 600,000 tons annually. This initiative is aligned with the Kingdom’s broader goals of enhancing domestic food production and meeting the nutritional needs of its population while mitigating the risks posed by global supply chain disruptions.
The project’s use of RAS technology offers several significant advantages over traditional fish farming methods. RAS systems require significantly less water and are more environmentally sustainable, making them well-suited for the Kingdom’s water-scarce regions. Additionally, these systems reduce the risks of parasite and viral infections that commonly affect fish populations, ensuring healthier and higher-quality fish. RAS technology also provides better control over critical environmental factors such as water temperature, oxygen levels, and nutrition, which are crucial for the well-being of farmed fish. These advancements in fish farming not only improve fish health but also contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the operation.
The success of the trout farming project owes much to the efforts of the National Laboratory to localize RAS systems specifically for freshwater species. Trout were successfully cultivated from the egg incubation stage until they reached a commercially viable size of over 1,200 grams, marking a major milestone in the development of sustainable aquaculture practices in Saudi Arabia. This success has sparked interest in the private sector, encouraging adoption of RAS technology in various regions across the Kingdom, including Riyadh, Makkah, Al-Baha, and the northern regions.
The project not only aims to satisfy domestic demand for nutritious fish but also serves as a model for innovative, sustainable aquaculture practices in Saudi Arabia. By utilizing advanced research and development (R&D) and fostering innovation, this initiative supports the Kingdom’s commitment to diversifying its food sources and ensuring the sustainable fulfillment of its population's dietary needs. As the project continues to expand, it stands as a key contributor to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, fostering food security, innovation, and sustainable development in the Kingdom’s agricultural sector.