SUSTAINABLE SURGE IN TURKISH SALMON CULTURE: PRIORITIZING ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

The Turkish aquaculture sector has rapidly expanded, establishing itself as a leading force in global markets, particularly through the cultivation of Turkish salmon, a large rainbow trout species grown in offshore cages in the Black Sea. This study investigates the environmental sustainability of Turkish salmon farming, focusing on water quality parameters, nutrient levels, and the ecological impact of aquaculture practices in two potential aquaculture areas along the Turkish Black Sea coast. The research applies the Trix Index, a widely used metric for assessing eutrophication risks in coastal waters, to evaluate the suitability of these areas for aquaculture. Results indicate that the studied regions maintain optimal water quality conditions and present no significant risk of eutrophication, supporting the sustainability of aquaculture operations. The findings underscore the importance of strategic planning and environmental monitoring in expanding aquaculture while preserving marine ecosystems.