Mariculture has proved to be an important source of income generation and improvement of livelihoods for coastal communities worldwide including Tanzania. However, most of the mariculture development initiatives in Tanzania are hampered by unavailability of quality and affordable seedstock, feeds and simple technologies. Most of the seedstock, especially for marine organisms (such as sea cucumbers), are collected from the wild which threatens the depletion of wild populations and decreases the chances of reproduction of these sessile animals. Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) involves farming of two or more organisms from different trophic positions or nutritional levels in the same system to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and provide ecosystem services. A study of the development of blue future through piloting an IMTA was conducted to assess the feasibility for piloting integrated seaweed-sea cucumber model. The study also aimed at using the IMTA in the production of sea-cucumber seeds for sustainable mariculture. A local sea-based community seaweed (Eucheuma denticulatum) and sea cucumber (Holothuria scabra) farm was established at Chokocho, Mkoani District in South Pemba. A site suitability assessment was successfully conducted where special emphasis was given to socio-ecological conditions that support integrated seaweed/sea cucumber mariculture. Evaluation of community perceptions of the IMTA indicated that almost all respondents supported this mariculture farming system. Farmers reported that integrated faming of either seaweed and sea cucumber or milkfish and sea cucumber would improve their income generation and living standards. All respondents recommended scaling up the IMTA model because it has a potential to increase income, maximize productivity, provide employment and alleviate poverty.
Key words: Mariculture, Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, Blue economy, Pemba