Title: Feasibility study on implementing a small-scale production system for yellowtail snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus) and brown sea cucumber (Isostichopus badionotus) using an integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) approach in Corn Island, Nicaragua.

Fisheries and aquaculture play key roles in Nicaragua’s economy. The development of aquaculture projects that focus on species of high economic value, especially those from the Caribbean Sea, can contribute to the diversification of production of coastal communities, having an impact on the local and national economy, which is in line with the policies of the Government of Nicaragua to fight poverty and guarantee food security. Based on published and unpublished literature, this study aimed to determine the feasibility of implementing a small-scale production system of yellowtail snapper (O. chrysurus) and brown sea cucumber (I. badionotus) on Corn Island, located on the South Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua, using inland facilities and cage culture for different growth stages. In addition, because of the ecological impacts usually related to marine aquaculture activities, this study evaluated the possible implementation of rearing systems using an Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA) approach. After an evaluation of the ecological characteristics of the site, the biological characteristics of the species, and challenges and opportunities related to the establishment of the project, the results demonstrated that the rearing of juveniles of both species that focuses on the evaluation of their acclimation, feeding, and growth performance is feasible in inland conditions, and the use of the IMTA approach is highly recommended. However, reproduction trials of both species are not feasible until further evaluation of their reproductive behaviour in the wild is performed to allow for better broodstock collection and reproduction strategies under controlled conditions. Because of the repercussions of feeding mismanagement on the growth of the species and ecology of the marine environment, the use of cages as a rearing method for yellowtail snappers is not feasible until optimal feeding strategies are achieved in inland facilities. However, because of their detritivore habits, rearing brown sea cucumbers in coastal areas is feasible. As part of the results and based on the knowledge gaps found during the formulation of this study, an action plan is included as a tool for the future execution of the project.