SISAQUA: Système d’Information Spatiale pour l’AQUAculture

Implementation Context

SISAQUA was first developed in the framework of the SISQUONOR project (Spatial Information System for Aquaculture Optimisation in Normandy and Norway). It is now being implemented in the framework of the Aquaspace project (2015-2018).

Aspects / Objectives

SISAQUA’s main objective is to contribute to the planning of aquaculture activities in Normandy region (France). It is a prototype of a decision support system based on the use of the Geographic Information System (GIS) and the Web.

Method

SISAQUA is based on 3 main modules:

1. Management and visualisation of spatial data
2. Combined analysis of those data (Creation of indicators)
3. Interactive user interface

SISAQUA focuses mainly on shellfish farming which is the main aquaculture activity in Normandy. It is managing data produced by IFREMER (French Research Institute for Exploration of the Sea): 

-Physical characteristics of littoral and marine waters of Normandy: bathymetry, current patterns, waves, nature of the seafloor, suspended matter;

-Biological characteristics: distribution of phytoplankton, growth and quality performance of oysters and mussels.

A first indicator was developed to identify areas suitable for new shellfish farming based on physical (bathymetry and water temperature) and trophic criteria.

SISAQUA is also able to manage information produced by other organisations such as the environmentally protected areas accessible via WMS protocols (Web Map Service) and implemented by the DREAL (Direction Régionale de l’Environnement, de l’Aménagement et du Logement).

Main Outputs / Results

This tool contributes to the planning of aquaculture activities in Normandy region (France). It is a prototype of a decision support system based on the use of the Geographic Information System (GIS) and the Web.

https://wwz.ifremer.fr/lern/Nos-projets/SISAQUA-planification-spatiale

Transferability

This tool is highly transferable. It is, indeed, the adaptation of a Norvegian tool (Akvavis) which aimed at planning salmon and mussel aquaculture in Norway. The tool has also been adapted in China.

Responsible Entity

Aline Gangnery

IFREMER (Institut Francais de Recherche pour l’exploitation de la mer)

aline.gangneryifremer.fr (aline[dot]gangnery[at]ifremer[dot]fr)

Costs / Funding Source

SISQUONOR - the project under which this tool has been developed – has been financed by the French-Norvegian Foundation, the ERDF, the Hordaland County (Norway) and the Regional Council of Basse-Normandie (France). Direct costs of the practice elaboration are unknown.