From Pond to Plate: The Strategic Management of Tilapia Aquaculture vs. Artisanal Sea Fishing in Jamaica
From Pond to Plate: The Strategic Management of Tilapia Aquaculture vs. Artisanal Sea Fishing in Jamaica By: Raliegh D.G. Barnett, B.Ed., M.A. Area of Interest: Educational Leadership and Sustainable Agricultural Management Date: March 3, 2026 The blue economy of Jamaica is a tale of two distinct worlds: the unpredictable, high-octane life of the artisanal sea fisherman and the disciplined, systems-oriented world of the tilapia aquaculturist. As an educator with a deep-seated interest in how structured management drives success, I find the "business of fish" to be a perfect case study in risk mitigation and economic planning. The Tilapia Production Cycle: A Managed Business Process Operating a food-fish farm is less about "fishing" and more about biological manufacturing . The process is cyclical, demanding high levels of intentionality and technical skill. 1. Pond Priming: The Foundation (January – February) To maximize yields, priming must begin during the dr...