THE CARIBBEWl AREA — VENEZUELA 



C. Engineering 



It is reconmended that: — 



1. The experimental fishing vessel recently constructed be placed in operation as 

 soon as possible and that it be remodeled to afford more efficient use of the iieck and 

 hold space. 



2. Further study of boats suitable for fishing in Venezuela be made. 



3. That the construction of fish traps or pounds be studied as well as other forms 

 of fishing gear not now in use in Venezuela. 



D. Exploration 



It is recommended that: — 



1. The extent and character of the shrimp population of Paraguana, Maracaibo, and 

 the Gulf of Paria be established by suitable exploration. 



2. The anchovy population of Lake Iferacaibo be examined to determine its suitability 

 for a reduction into fish meal and oil. 



3. Exploration be carried on in offshore areas to determine the practicability of 

 capturing tuna and swordfish in commercial quantities. 



U» The possibilities for enlargement of the sharic-fishing industry be explored. 

 In addition to stimulating fishery enterprise, this would also decrease the niimber of 

 predators on other species of fish. Dry-salt shark meat was judged to be one of the best 

 salt-fishery products produced in Venezuela. 



5. The extent and character of other important food fishes and shellfishes be deter- 

 mined as a basis for future expansion of the fishery industries. Expert analyses of these 

 data will divulge many opportunities for increased activities in fishery commerce and mill 

 ensure that the most economic use is made of the fishery resoxrrces. 



E. Sconcmics 



It is recommended that: — 



1. The Venezuelan Government promote the expansion of the fresh-fish industry. For 

 this purpose, efforts should be directed toward the improvement of marketing and transport- 

 ing facilities, and installation of ice-making, quick-freezing, and cold-storage facilities. 

 It is considered very desirable that a thorough study of the economic factors concerned be 

 made for the purpose of determining how extensive a developmait is feasible. 



2. The statistical program be continued and expanded to include a greater coverage of 

 the fishery industry. 



F. Fish Culture 



It is recommended that: — 



1. Tcie work of the trout hatchery at Macuy be continued with the object of stocking 

 suitable lakes and streams. 



2. Planting of carp be discontinued in Venezuelan waters pending an investigation of 

 of the desirability of using native species, for fish-stocking purposes. The introduction 

 of foreign species often results in damage to the waters and to valuable native fishes. 

 Venezuela appears to have numerous species of fish that are well suited to the environment 

 and which can probably be used with much better results. 



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