Aichi Prefecture discusses nutrient management to restore Ise Bay fisheries

Stakeholders in Aichi Prefecture are discussing new strategies to restore fishing grounds in Ise Bay, focusing on a shift from total nutrient reduction to total nutrient management. This transition aims to address the sharp decline in clam and seaweed production caused by insufficient nutrients in the water.

During a recent symposium in Nagoya, officials and industry leaders highlighted that while nitrogen and phosphorus were previously viewed as pollutants, they are essential nutrients for marine life. The decline in clam production, which held the top spot in Japan for 20 years, is attributed to a lack of nutrients causing a decrease in phytoplankton.

Industry representatives, including Kazuhiko Hisada of Nagai Nori, noted that strict regulations have historically depleted the sea's vitality. He pointed to Hyogo Prefecture as a successful example of using independent nutrient management plans to achieve record seaweed shipments. Additionally, companies like Umito Plus are introducing AI cameras and drones to combat significant crop damage caused by predatory fish and birds.