Crab Farming Planned for Chetumal Bay

CHETUMAL, Quintana Roo — Given the potential of Chetumal Bay for promoting aquaculture projects, the Secretariat of Agricultural, Rural, and Fisheries Development (Sedarpe) is seeking to diversify primary activities in the south of Quintana Roo, with crab cultivation being one of the initiatives it aims to implement in the bay of the state capital.

On the matter, the head of Sedarpe, Jorge Aguilar Osorio, announced that Chetumal Bay could function as a site for crab cultivation. However, he indicated that a current restriction exists because the bay is considered a protected natural area, as it is the habitat of species such as the manatee, making it a sanctuary for them.

Furthermore, according to studies conducted by specialists, the presence of heavy metals has been detected in the bay's waters, resulting from the use of agrochemicals. Nevertheless, for the moment, the possibility that the bay could become an important point for generating products that contribute to the local economy—in this case, aquaculture production—has not been ruled out.

In this sense, he mentioned that conversations have also been held with the National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries (Conapesca), as well as other agencies related to the topic, to seek the necessary alternatives and mechanisms to generate productive options that boost the economy of the state capital.

Finally, Aguilar Osorio stated that a specific start date for this project is not yet available, as it is still in the process of being finalized, specifically for Chetumal Bay. They also want to include other areas in the south of the state, such as Laguna Guerrero. However, there is an entire process behind the idea, so they will continue with the corresponding procedures to bring it to fruition.

He also emphasized that during 2024, aquaculture played a very important role worldwide, and therefore they hope it can be implemented in the state capital, as it could have beneficial economic repercussions.