Marine shrimp farming

Shrimp nauplius

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Shrimp hatchery

Shrimp postlarvae stocking

Shrimp and prawn aquaculture time series

Marsupenaeus japonicus

Marine shrimp farming is the aquaculture business of cultivating marine shrimp for human consumption. This industry has grown from traditional, small-scale operations in Southeast Asia into a global business that produces billions of dollars worth of shrimp every year. Marine shrimp farming involves several species, but the most commonly farmed species are the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) and the giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon).

History

The history of marine shrimp farming can be traced back to the early 1970s in Southeast Asia, where it began as a small-scale traditional activity. Over the years, it has evolved into a significant global industry, with major production centers now located in countries such as China, India, Vietnam, Thailand, and Ecuador. The development of specific pathogen-free (SPF) and specific pathogen-resistant (SPR) broodstock has significantly contributed to the growth and sustainability of this industry.

Cultivation Methods

Marine shrimp farming can be conducted under various systems ranging from extensive to intensive cultivation:

• Extensive Systems: These systems use low stocking densities and rely on natural productivity for the feeding of shrimp. They are often located in mangrove areas or in areas with access to tidal water.
• Semi-intensive Systems: These systems use higher stocking densities than extensive systems and require some supplemental feeding and active management of water quality.
• Intensive Systems: These are highly controlled environments with very high stocking densities, requiring significant input of artificial feed and active water quality management. Intensive systems often use aeration to increase oxygen levels in the water.

Environmental Impact

Marine shrimp farming has faced criticism for its environmental impact, including the destruction of mangroves, discharge of waste products into local waterways, and the use of antibiotics and chemicals. Efforts to mitigate these impacts include the development of more sustainable farming practices, such as integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), and the adoption of better management practices (BMPs).

Economic Importance

The global shrimp farming industry is a significant source of employment and income in many developing countries. It plays a crucial role in the economies of several countries, contributing to food security, export revenues, and rural development. However, the industry is also subject to fluctuations in international market prices, disease outbreaks, and changing regulatory environments, which can pose challenges to its sustainability and growth.

Future Prospects

The future of marine shrimp farming lies in technological advancements, improved disease management, and the adoption of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Innovations such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), biofloc technology, and genetic improvement programs hold promise for the sustainable growth of the industry. Additionally, there is an increasing consumer demand for sustainably farmed shrimp, which is driving changes in farming practices and certification standards.

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