The success of aquaculture systems is dependant upon the physical and chemical properties of the water resources and the site. Thus, prior to the introduction of aquaculture in Palestine, the natural resources of the areas must be determined as adequate. In this study, sites with viable water flow rate and climate were located. The physical and chemical properties of the water resources were tested to determine water dissolved oxygen, carbon dioxide, pH, total ammonia, nitrite-nitrogen, chloride, total dissolved solids, total alkalinity, total hardness, turbidity, and temperature. The topography, climate, and existing agricultural activities in each of the viable sites were also examined. This information will provide the basis necessary to assess the potential of introducing aquaculture in Palestine.
Two of the West Bank regions were found suitable for warm freshwater aquaculture: the Jordan Rift and the northern parts of the Eastern Slopes. The richness in water resources, the moderate climate, and suitable landscape of these two regions set them apart from the other regions. The Mediterranean Sea on the Gaza Strip coast constitutes the sole resource for marine aquaculture. However, pollution of the marine environment in this region is severe and may threaten the survival of fish and thus the success of aquaculture projects.