A Basin-Based Risk Assessment for Rainbow Trout Farming Based on the Türkiye Basin's Water Reserve Trend and Climate Indicator

In this study, trout production in the last decade is evaluated. The predicted climatic and hydrological changes in Türkiye's river basins are addressed with the 2024 rainbow trout production data, and production strategies, regional planning, policy and management of sustainable aquaculture in risky and potential regions are emphasized. Inland water aquaculture still maintains its strategic importance in rainbow trout production, which is tending to shift towards the marine areas of the Black Sea. Inland water rainbow trout production, with its center in Elâzığ, is steadily increasing in two–centered inland rainbow trout production encompassing Muğla and Elâzığ provinces. Of the 22 basins with 1% or more production in inland rainbow trout farming, 12 are at risk due to the effects of climate change. Six basins may be in a strategic position for future production. In Türkiye, basin planning should be carried out for the sustainability of rainbow trout farming in the latitudes below 39°–40° N, based on 35° E longitude, and centered in Muğla and Elâzığ, and modern systems should be implemented to minimize water use, and climate-resistant strategies should be developed.