Evaluating Soil and Sediment Quality in Coastal Regions for Sustainable Aquaculture Development

The sustainable development of fish farming activities and coastal zone aquaculture is crucially dependent upon soils and sediments, as they greatly influence the species' water quality, health, and productivity. This investigation focuses on physicochemical characteristics of soils and sediments in several coastal areas to determine their potential for best sustainable aquaculture practices. Specifically, this study focuses on pH, salinity, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, heavy metals, and sediment texture. Samples from different focused aquaculture areas were collected and tested in certified laboratories, with results subjected to statistical processing. The study results revealed favorable conditions for aquaculture in regions with a balanced pH of 7.0-8.5, moderate organic matter content, and low heavy metals concentrations. Some other areas have elevated concentrations of overseas cadmium and lead due to industrial effluents and human activities, which pose a significant danger to aquatic life and ecosystem sustainability. Cadmium and lead settle on marine organisms and vector them through the food chain, affecting the ecosystem. Analysis of sediment textures showed that ponds with enriched nutrients and silty clay have better productive capacity, while sandy soils require other amendments to achieve ideal productivity. It is suggested that active monitoring of soil and sediment in coastal zones of aquaculture must be boosted. It also recommends incorporating best management practices (BMPs) like organic matter and pollution abatement enhancement to protect soil health and environmental sustainability. These conclusions are valid for policy formulation, as well as for site selection, and farming practices directed towards environmental conservation and food security. This study assists in rational planning for sustainable aquaculture in coastal areas by providing an ecological basis through the thorough assessment of soil and sediment quality for environmental and economic sustainability.