Abstract

The purpose of this research was to assess the biodiversity indicators in sustainable aquaculture development based on Iranian fisheries experts. The research method employed was correlative-descriptive. The population consisted of fisheries experts in Khuzestan Province of Iran. A random sample of fisheries experts (n = 60) was selected. The questionnaire was developed to collect data. Content and face validity were established by a panel of experts. Questionnaire reliability was estimated by calculating Cronbach,’s alpha. Reliability of the overall instrument was estimated at 0.73. Data collected were analyzed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). Appropriate statistical procedures for description (frequencies, percent, means, and standard deviations) were used. Based on the results, different items were used for the assessment of biodiversity of sustainable aquaculture based on Iranian fisheries experts. For example, the situation of bio-security was between moderate and low level (Mean = 2.34, Standard deviation (SD) = 1.01). Linear regression was used to predict changes in fisheries experts' awareness with respect to biodiversity indicators of sustainable aquaculture. Level of education, technical knowledge regarding sustainable agriculture, income, social participation, social status and job satisfaction may well explain the 56.2% changes (R² = 0.562) in fisheries experts' awareness with respect to biodiversityindicators of sustainable aquaculture.

Key words: Bio-diversity, sustainable aquaculture, fisheries experts.