Water management models and their influence in aquaculture process policies. Case study: ornamental fish breeding in the State of Morelos, Mexico.

Abstract

This paper analyses the evolution of water management and planning models linked to the changes in aquaculture practices in Mexico. This description is developed through a case study: the evolution of ornamental fish breeding in the State of Morelos, Mexico. The state's public policies transition from a selfsupply aquaculture model based on a supply water management approach to a sustainable fish breeding system based on recycled water, closer to an integrated water management approach, is analyzed. As a consequence, the supply, demand, and holistic-integrated water management approaches are described and analyzed. The strengths and weakness of each approach, when applied as paradigms in the development of ornamental fish breeding practices in Morelos, are shown through the results of the case study and scenario construction. In this context, it is important to highlight the non-feasibility of the supply approach, the social and economic conflicts derived from the application of strategies associated with the water demand management. Finally, the restrictions associated with the integrated approach are highlighted, mainly those related to a governance structure which should be able to develop and carry out an integrated water management plan, and an effective coordination and guidance of the stakeholders in a watershed council.