(Home based) Modelling of the dependent & independent factors that affect the growth of Holothuria scabra in sea pens

No fieldwork in Madagascar required.

An economic model has been developed as a simple tool to assess the economic viability of sea cucumber farming for families in Velondriake which takes into account a number of technical, biological, economic and social parameters. A more detailed biological model is needed to assist with production planning that links growth rates, biomass, density, pen size and grow-out period to local environmental factors including temperature, habitat characteristics and sediment quality. The model should be designed as a simple tool to facilitate production planning and sea pen design.