GIS-based multi-criteria evaluation to land suitability modelling for giant prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) farming in Companigonj Upazila of Noakhali, Bangladesh
Site selection is a key factor in any aquaculture operation, affecting both success and sustainability as well as solving conflicts between different activities and making rational use of the land. The study was conducted to identify appropriate site for the farming of giant prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, in Companigonj of Noakhali, Bangladesh using GIS-based multi-criteria evaluation taking 20 base layers of water quality, soil characteristics and infrastructure facilities. ASTER image and thematic layers were analyzed using ENVI and ArcView capabilities to develop a series of GIS models and prioritize the most suitable areas for prawn farming. The model output clearly indicates the location and extent of prawn farming area in different suitability scales, i.e., most suitable 11,999ha (52%), moderately suitable 10,219ha (45%) and not suitable 781ha (3%) which was consistent with field verification data. The compactness of vast flood-free derelict lands with suitable water and soil quality as well as infrastructure facilities would be an appropriate option for prawn farming to diversify the economic activities of local communities.
gis analytical hierarchy process aquaculture planning freshwater prawn farming