Economic and Employment Implications of Fish Farming in the Karaburun-Ildır Special Protection Area, Turkish Aegean Sea

This study examines the socio-economic and ecological implications of aquaculture in the Karaburun-Ildır Bay Special Environmental Protection Area (SEPA) in İzmir Province, Türkiye. The SEPA, encompassing diverse marine and terrestrial ecosystems, is crucial for biodiversity conservation and economic activities, particularly aquaculture. The study utilizes purposive sampling to focus on key stakeholders, including fish farms, processing facilities, and feed producers, all integral to the region`s aquaculture industry. Survey data were collected through structured interviews, assessing employment generation, community development, and economic impacts. The region`s aquaculture operations, primarily involving European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax), gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), meagre (Argyrosomus regius), and Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus), contribute significantly to Türkiye's total marine fish production, with the Karaburun-SEPA accounting for 14.44% of the national total and 33.23% of İzmir's marine fish output in 2021. The economic value generated by these operations was estimated at 174.17 million USD in 2021, constituting 37% of İzmir`s and 10% of Türkiye`s marine aquaculture economy. Employment data reveal that 486 individuals work in the region`s fish farms, with an estimated 1,864 people benefiting from these operations when including family members. Additionally, significant infrastructure investments, such as floating cages and feed production facilities, underscore the capital intensity of the sector. The findings highlight the region`s pivotal role in Türkiye`s aquaculture industry, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices that balance economic growth with environmental preservation. The study provides valuable insights into the socio-economic benefits of aquaculture in a protected area and underscores the importance of integrating sustainability into aquaculture development to ensure long-term ecological and economic stability.