Geography information System (GIS) play a crucial role in environmental analysis and can be systematically applied in spatial planning for aquaculture studies. This study analyzes spatial data such as bathymetry, slope, curvature, chlorophyll, temperature, humidity, windspeed, and precipitation to determine the best locations for aquaculture farms in Apalachicola Bay, which is part of the Gulf of Mexico. Data redundancy among variables was examined using the Pearson correlation matrix analysis, while the predictive power of the evidentiary data was evaluated using prediction plot analysis. The Additive Ratio Assessment (ARAS) and Evaluation Based on Distance from Average (EDAS) statistical models were employed for data integration. The prediction accuracy of these spatial models was evaluated using Area Under the Curve and Receiver Operating Characteristics curve (ROC/AUC) analysis. Pearson correlation analysis results indicated a generally low negative correlation and varying positive correlations. Prediction plot analysis revealed a strong correlation (≥ 0.7) between oyster beds and bathymetry (0.83), humidity (0.7), and chlorophyll (0.7). Spatial data integration using the ARAS and EDAS models identified the most ideal zones for aquaculture in the eastern, middle, and western sectors of the study region, accounting for 30.6 percent (ARAS model) and 22.97 percent (EDAS model) of the study site. Validation of prediction accuracy revealed high efficiency for both the ARAS and EDAS models in mapping natural oyster beds, with accuracy scores of 77.0 percent and 77.0 percent, respectively. Basically, the study serves as a valuable environmental and climatic proxy, facilitating integration into oyster aquaculture management programs, promoting informed decision-making, and encouraging sustainable practices. The application of GIS models, integrating climatic, environmental, and geomorphological variables, proves highly effective in identifying optimal sites for aquaculture practices. We recommend implementing these models in other coastal zones with similar geospatial parameters and models.
Keywords: Aquaculture, Oysters. Geospatial mapping, Apalachicola Bay, Multi Criteria