Abstract

The northeast coast of Venezuela is the most important fishing region in the country. Sardines (Sardinella aurita) and pellecipod mollusks (Arca zebra and Pinctada imbricata) abound in its waters, the annual cach exceeds 300.000 mt Several factors account for this fertility: an upwelling of subsurface waters, the influence of great South American rivers (notably the Orinoco river). the coastal lagoons, and the presence of numerous isles. In the island of Margarita, the possibilities of cultivating 16 species of marine fishes have been studied, but so far only two species, Chaetodipterus faber (Ephippidae) and Trachinotus goodei (Carangidae) show any potential of intensive production. Both species reach their commercial weight (300 - 400 g) in less than one year, reach gonadal maturity and spawn in confinement. For Ch. faber controlled reproduction and the raising of brood have been achieved but fattening should still be optimized. Trachinotus goodei is a very disease resistant species and grows relatively fast. In this paper we discuss the realistic possibilities of cultivation for both species, and the problems that must be solved. Success depends upon the use of adequate dry feed in floating cages. We also recommend experiments with Coryphaena hippurus (Coryphaenidae), because adults of this species are caught in this area all year round, which should make aesier all activities related with reproduction and the raising of juveniles.

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