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Saint-Louis aquaculture
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Agriculture
Aquaculture farms in Saint-Louis are part of a national strategy for food security and to alleviate pressure on Senegal's overfished coastal waters. In the brackish waters of the Senegal River delta, primarily tilapia and catfish are farmed using modern tank systems and floating cages. These operations are often supported by the Agence Nationale de l'Aquaculture (ANA) to bring technical expertise to the region. The farms provide not only alternative protein sources for the local population but also create jobs for women and youth in rural areas. By integrating sustainable feeding methods, efforts are made to minimize the ecological impact on the sensitive ecosystem of the Langue de Barbarie National Park.
- Location: Senegal
- Nearby: Djoudj National Bird Park (38 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 27 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 9 | 38 | 2 | 0 | 10 | 65 | 123 | 109 | 20 | 1 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The aquaculture facility in Saint-Louis is a fish-rearing operation for the regional market, contributing to food security. It utilizes the coastal waters and lagoons of the Senegalese coast, supplying local communities with fresh fish.
Visiting
The facility is typically not open to the public as it is an active agricultural operation. However, the fish ponds can be viewed from nearby roads or dykes.
Where to view it
The best view of the aquaculture ponds is from the road along the Saint-Louis lagoon. From the ferry or bridges, the rectangular ponds and channels of the operation are visible.
Local products
In Saint-Louis, fresh fish from the aquaculture is sold at the local fish market, mainly tilapia and mullet. Dried or smoked fish is also a typical regional specialty.
Active season
Aquaculture production is active year-round, with harvest cycles varying by fish species. Demand increases during the dry season when wild catch is lower.
Nearby
A visit to the aquaculture can be combined with the old town of Saint-Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture. A boat trip on the Senegal River is also recommended.
Geography
Facts
- Supported by Senegal's National Aquaculture Agency (ANA).
- Focuses on the breeding of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).
- Utilizes the natural water conditions of the Senegal River delta.
- Promotes the employment of women in the fish processing sector.
- Serves as a pilot project for sustainable fish farming in West Africa.
- Reduces fishing pressure on the Atlantic Ocean's wild stocks.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Saint-Louis aquaculture (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the farm open to visitors?
Visits are possible for groups by appointment.
What do you learn during a visit?
You learn everything about sustainable fish farming methods.
Can one buy fish?
Yes, fresh fish is available directly from the farm.
How do you get to the farm?
Best by car from Saint-Louis.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Partially, but some areas have uneven ground.
Saint-Louis aquaculture: where is it located?
Saint-Louis aquaculture is located in Senegal.
Saint-Louis aquaculture: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Saint-Louis aquaculture: why is it worth visiting?
Aquaculture farms in Saint-Louis are part of a national strategy for food security and to alleviate pressure on Senegal's overfished coastal waters.
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History & landmarks
Nature
Senegal River Delta
The mouth of the Senegal River into the Atlantic Ocean.
Senegal River
The Senegal River forms the natural border between Senegal and Mauritania.
Lake Panal
A small marshy lake near the Mauritanian border.
🗺️
Lake Kassack
A smaller lake near the Senegal River in the north.
Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary
An important wetland with a large lake and marshlands.
Lac de Guiers
The largest freshwater lake in Senegal, important for drinking water supply.
Senegal River Valley
A fertile valley along the Senegal River.
More places
Faidherbe Bridge
An iconic metal bridge connecting the island of Saint-Louis to the mainland, designed by Gustave Eiffel.
Historic Centre of Saint-Louis
The former capital of French West Africa with magnificent colonial architecture on an island.
Governor's Palace of Saint-Louis
The prestigious building that served as the residence of the French colonial governor.
Port of Saint-Louis
A historic port at the mouth of the Senegal River, used mainly for fishing.
Saint-Louis onion farming
A hub for commercial onion farming in northern Senegal.
Gueumbeul Reserve
A smaller protected area near Saint-Louis for the conservation of endangered species.
Langue de Barbarie National Park
A narrow sandspit between the Atlantic Ocean and the Senegal River.
🗺️
Historic Islamic Center of Mpal
An important religious center of the Tidjaniyya Sufi brotherhood with historic mosques.