Aquaculture Magazine August / September 2015 Volume 41 Number 4 by Aquaculture Magazine

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INDEX Aquaculture Magazine Volume 41 Number 4 August - September 2015

Editorial.....................................................................................................................................................................4

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Nursery phase in shrimp farming: Benefits beyond EMS.

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FEATURE STORY

news

RESEARCH REPORT

news

World Fish Center Releases report on Climate Change and Aquatic Animal Disease.

Understanding the French market for tropical shrimp.

North Carolina Senate Passes Budget Including Oyster Development Initiatives.

Growth and survival of the species Orthopristis ruber (Cuvier, 1830) as a new alternative for aquaculture production, Isla de Margarita, Nueva Esparta State, Venezuela. ASC opens first round of public consultation on Responsible Feed Standard.

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RESEARCH REPORT

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Vision for packaging in seafood industry.

Volume 41 Number 4 August - September 2015

Editor and Publisher Salvador Meza info@dpinternationalinc.com Editor in Chief Greg Lutz editorinchief@dpinternationalinc.com Managing Editor Teresa Jasso edicion@design-publications.com Editorial Design Francisco Cibrián

Leaders in Aquaculture Convene at the BC Seafood Expo & Workshop Series.

Project aims to be the First, Self-Sustaining, Symbiotic Agricultural Ecosystem to Harvest Heat Emitted from Underground Data Center. From tiles to fish fry: School of Freshwater Sciences increases its commitment to burgeoning urban aquaculture industry through research and education. In competition for the Gold Medal with banana. Ecuador achieved record of shrimp production in 2014: 330,000 tons.

Designer Perla Neri design@design-publications.com Marketing and Communications Manager Alex Meza amz@dpinternationalinc.com Sales and Marketing Christian Criollos crm@dpinternationalinc.com International Sales and Marketing Steve Reynolds marketing@dpinternationalinc.com Business Operation Manager Adriana Zayas administracion@design-publications.com

Subscriptions: iwantasubscription@dpinternationalinc.com Design Publications International Inc. 203 S. St. Mary’s St. Ste. 160 San Antonio, TX 78205, USA Office: +210 5043642 Office in Mexico: (+52) (33) 3632 2355 Aquaculture Magazine (ISSN 0199-1388) is published bimontly, by Design Publications International Inc. All rights reserved. www.aquaculturemag.com Follow us:

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RESEARCH REPORT

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Corporate Ocean Responsibility: Industry Leadership and Collaboration for Sustainable Development and the Blue Economy.

The Economist Events’ World Ocean Summit 2015 Gathered Policymakers and Business Leaders to Define the Future of the Blue Economy. Genetic improvement of Pacific white shrimp [Penaeus (Litopenaeus) vannamei]: perspectives for genomic selection. NOAA & Canada’s Department of Fisheries & Oceans Partner on Regulation of Aquaculture.

ASIAN report

The Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS 2015) to focus on nutrition and feed innovation.

columns AQUACULTURE ENGINEERING

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NUTRITION

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AQUAFEED

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THE LONG VIEW

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AQUACULTURE ECONOMICS, MANAGEMENT,AND MARKETING ....................................................66 HATCHERYTECHNOLOGYAND MANAGEMENT ................................................................................69 Salmonids

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SHRIMP

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THE FISHMONGER

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Upcoming events

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advertisers

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Index

Editor´s

comments

By C. Greg Lutz

ere’s a question for you. When was the last time you came home smelling like fish… or shrimp… or clams… or any other aquacultured product? Or any particular brand of aquafeed? No, seriously… can you remember? For some of us, it might just be part of the daily routine. For others, the opportunity for a lingering olfactory appreciation of one’s livelihood all the way home at the end of the day may be something they have never imagined. Whether we think of it primarily as a business, or a science, or a policy topic, there are many people with many differing perspectives involved in this endeavor we call aquaculture. And many of them have never spent a day on an aquatic farm. Among that group, some are certainly more in touch with the day to day realities of production than others. And, among producers, some are also much more in touch with policy issues, markets, and economic trends than their counterparts. Aquaculture, whether on a local, national or global scale, is increasingly characterized by disconnects. We constantly hear about this meeting or that meeting… who was (or wasn’t) represented… what was agreed upon… why it matters. But for the most part, it seems many of these important gatherings result in little progress for aquaculture – 4 »

however you choose to define it. Should we simply resign ourselves to all the disconnects? Is it an inevitable by-product of information overload? One might think that in this day and age of twitter, multiple e-mail accounts, facebook, google, yahoo discussion groups, and old fashioned smart phones, it would be easier than ever for people involved in production, policy, research and outreach to come together to address common issues and concerns. But this state of cooperation and collaboration remains elusive. The Fishmonger gives us an example of this phenomenon – a conference on fish trade sponsored by the FAO, with only a handful of industry representatives in a crowd of several hundred. Another pervasive disconnect involves environmental sustainability. This is pointed out by our newest columnist, Dr. Aaron McNevin, in what we are calling “The Long View.” Those who develop reporting systems for production aquaculture operations can have limited concepts of the ultimate desirable outcomes. Metrics often become difficult or impossible to relate to realworld environmental conditions. It seems to me these disconnects pose a significant threat to the future of aquaculture, for at least two fundamental reasons. The first might be referred to as perception issues – or perhaps misperception issues.

Anyone who has been involved in aquaculture for any length of time is aware of the problems we face in terms of consumer perceptions, as well as how aquaculture is perceived by many policy makers and regulators. The same tools used by critics (be they well-intentioned and misinformed or openly and flagrantly libelous) are available to all of us if we want to get a more objective story out there. Perception is reality, as they say. The second reason we should be concerned about disconnects involves the overall progress of aquaculture as a science and industry. Fragmentation – whether based on culture species, lack of cooperation among value chain players, rivalries between regional interests, or (let’s face it) – competition, continues to hold back potential progress on a variety of levels. I’m not suggesting that we should all be so naively optimistic as to think that if we just hold hands or faithfully read each other’s twitter feeds we will move forward together into a glorious future… but if we become resigned to all the disconnects we currently face, then progress will be slow and painful over the next few decades. Dr. C. Greg Lutz has a B.A. in Biology and Spanish by the Earlham College at Richmond, Indiana, a M.S. in Fisheries and a Ph.D. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science by the Louisiana State University. His interests include recirculating system technology and population dynamics, quantitative genetics and multivariate analyses and the use of web based technology for result-demonstration methods.

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Nursery phase in shrimp farming:

Benefits beyond EMS

An evolution in the design of nursery systems for longer duration, higher biomass and larger post larvae, and transfer techniques to maintain health of post larvae.

By Fernando Garcia Abad*

fter years of significant losses with white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) outbreaks, a nursery phase is a common practice in Mex6 Âť

icoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Penaeus vannamei shrimp farming industry. In the last two years, more integrated groups in South and Central America have implemented a three-phase farming system with

intermediary raceways/nurseries at pond site before stocking the animals into grow-out ponds, resulting in increased productivity by 20-30% and lowering production costs.

crop rotation in the ponds. Farmers require more post larvae and hatcheries sell more post larvae when producers have more crops. The system also takes advantage of the compensatory growth capacity well known in the Americas with vannamei shrimp. In Mexico, growth of 7-8 g in the first 30 days was achieved with the three-phase system as compared to 3-4 g with regular stocking. The biggest cost in shrimp farming is during the growout stage. A shorter cycle means savings in costs for feeds and energy. However, all of this can be achieved only with the use of proper technology and with full control of the system. In poorly constructed or managed nursery systems, low survivals may result, and weak animals are likely to be transferred to ponds.

Evolution of nursery systems in Mexico WSSV together with local weather limitations (Mexico has extreme weather conditions, very high and low temperatures), forced farmers to modify their operational systems. In the last six years, producers have been adjusting their nursery systems to be Stocking post larvae (PL) after a cost efficient with higher biomass. nursery phase (usually >PL45) in- With high stocking density, these sysstead of PL10-12 direct from hatch- tems require zero water exchange in eries will reduce the duration in the order to keep all parameters constant. grow-out ponds by 20-30 days and Prerequisites are highly efficient filfeed conversion ratio (FCR) by 10- tration systems, similar to those used 30%. In Mexico and Asia, this is now in the hatchery. Aside from probiotone of the strategies used to mitigate early mortality syndrome (EMS) by stocking larger size post larvae into grow-out ponds. The three-phase system has its benefits for the whole supply chain. Nursery systems have a constant control of water conditions and shrimp health. There is optimisaton and better feeding efficiency. The target is to produce stronger post larvae which have been acclimated to the pond environment. This results in better survival during the first days of culture and minimises exposure to disease vectors. Nursery systems allow more

ics to control water quality, regular siphoning is required. The target is healthier and stronger animals before transfer to the ponds. There has been an evolution in tank shapes for nursery systems in Mexico. Circular tanks from sizes of 50 tonnes in 2008 and 2009 have evolved to raceways of 100 tonnes in 2009 and then to larger raceways of 500 tonnes in 2011. These are now bigger with rectangular tanks of 800 to 1000 tonnes in curved or flat greenhouses.

Control of water quality and feeding The main criterion is control of water quality. Probiotics are applied according to the target; for example, for organics, it is 3 ppm probiotics for every 72 hours. In the case of control of toxics, it is 2-5 ppm probiotics for every 48 hours and for pathogens in water, it is 2 ppm probiotics for every 72 hours. Pathogens in the animal are targeted with 1-4 g/kg probiotics. However, the protocol of the different probiotics is adjusted depending on the biomass, water quality and animal health conditions. The objective is to maintain optimal conditions in order to keep the animal healthy for it to express the compensatory growth potential when transferred. In the case of feeding, lower quality feeds with fines will affect water quality and shrimp performance. As

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such, higher quality hatchery feeds with less fines are most desirable. Producers do not follow a fixed feeding table. Usually, at least 45% crude protein and high energy feeds are fed at 2-hour intervals. Feed amounts are adjusted depending on feed trays, water quality and animal growth.

Transfer techniques The main bottleneck in the adoption of nursery systems is the implementation of the right transfer technique. Attention is placed on the transfers of post larvae to grow-out ponds. The early transfer techniques had adversely affected survival rates. For short distance transfers to adjacent ponds, 2 kg of small animals of 0.4 to 1g each, were placed in 20 kg sized buckets filled with water saturated with oxygen. The maximum transport time was 5 minutes and mortalities during transportation ranged from 5 to 10%. For longer distances, 75 to 180 animals/litre or 20 to 40 kg of post larvae were transported in 1000 to 2000-litre tanks again in water saturated with oxygen; in such transport conditions, mortality during transport also ranged from 5 to 10%. The degree of early mortality in ponds is directly related to the condition of the animal at time of transfer and stress level during transfer. Since 2012, modifications in transfer technology led to the use of pumps for more efficient transfers. This reduces stress and mortality during transfers to only 3-5%. The transfer process has been refined such that the animal does not stay out of the water longer than 30-60 seconds. In 2013, the maximum distance for transfers with pumps was to ponds located up to 3 km from the raceway units. The transfer capacity with pumps is 15 kg per minute. Early transfer affects survival rates in the pond and it is important that transfers are carried out in the morning, late evening or at night. When planning for the transfer, the health condition of the shrimp should be monitored. 8 Âť

Reducing density A recent development in Mexico is to reduce stocking density to achieve higher weight of post larvae as well as higher survival rates in the raceways. Biomass of 6.9 kg/m3 has been achieved. The average results of weight and survival rate achieved, depending on stocking densities and days in raceways, are shown in Table 1. Beyond EMS and nursery systems The impact of the EMS/AHPND in Mexico has been severe. Production dropped 60% in 2013 which was very similar to that in Thailand. More problems than normal were attributed to post larvae sources. Some large groups took advantage of their large raceways infrastructure, and changed the production strategy by lowering stocking densities and prolonging the days of culture in the raceways for larger post larvae for stocking. The grow-out cycle in the ponds was further shortened by harvesting smaller shrimp. This became a viable alternative for the Mexican industry, with current shrimp prices and more short cycles with better FCR and a different cost structure. Some examples from farms in three locations proved that this change in strategy was a valid option in 2014. Post larvae were stocked in 500 to 1000-tonnes raceways at 0.6 to 1.8 PL/liter. Days of culture ranged from 30-57 days to produce 3.5 to 4.28 g juveniles. Survivals were high at 87 to 90% and FCRs were 1.4 to 1.65 depending on days of culture. In the grow-out ponds, 4 g juveniles grew to 17 g in 30 days at a density of 6 juveniles/m2. FCR was low at 0.47 and survival rate was at 85%. In another pond, 4 g juveniles grew to 10.4 g in 14 days and accumulative FCR from raceway was 1.56 with 95% survival. Asian experiences These experiences from Mexico were successfully transferred to a Malaysian farm in 2013-2014. Post larvae

In the last six years, producers have been adjusting their raceways/ nursery systems to be cost efficient with higher biomass.

was reported in central Vietnam but poor animal condition at transfer to ponds did not give good results in grow-out ponds. Poor animal condition was attributed to poor water quality from the use of sub-optimal feeds in the nursery stage.

were stocked in raceways for 25-30 days to produce 1-1.5 g post larvae. These were then stocked into growout ponds at a density of 70-80 PL/ m2. FCR in the raceway was 1.0-1.5 depending on the duration of culture. In the grow-out ponds, shrimp grew to 17-18 g and FCR was 1.3. Survival in the grow-out pond was 90-95%. There is still room for improvement such as adjusting feeding regimes, probiotics protocols, and temperature conditions in order to achieve larger post larvae in the nursery phase and better FCR’s in the grow-out ponds. In Thailand, there were mixed results. There was success at the nursery stage but due to the health condition

of the animal during transfer, results were poor in the grow-out stage. Alternative ideas were put in place such as stocking in cages inside the ponds for the first 30 days with no soil contact. This reportedly avoided an EMS outbreak. Another option was separating 20 to 30% of the pond with a net and stocking in this area and releasing shrimp into the whole pond after 20 to 30 days. However with these practices compensatory growth does not happen since the shrimp are in the same pond. In Vietnam, the implementation of nursery systems was hampered by low investment and technology as well as poor biosecurity. One success

Conclusion In challenging times with the presence of new diseases and adverse environmental conditions, the industry needs to change and use new tools. Since the causative agent of EMS/ AHPND is a Vibrio, nursery systems allow farmers to focus on controlling the Vibrio bacteria in a smaller area and delaying exposure to the pathogenic agent. Farmers in Asia should use this opportunity to invest in and use the proven new technology appropriate for their unique situations. Rather than reinventing the wheel, producers should adopt the Latin American methodology and refine it for Asia. In this way, we can move away from artisanal to more controlled sustainable shrimp farming. The benefits of the implementation of the threephase shrimp farming also go beyond EMS/AHPND. It improves productivity and reduces costs without additional pressure in the production systems. Today, prices have come down sooner than expected but still at a reasonable level. The two biggest costs in shrimp farms are feed and duration of culture. The implementation of these systems has a significant direct impact in both parameters and therefore will help farmers to reduce risk and improve their profitability. *Fernando Garcia Abad is Aquaculture Business Development director at Epicore Bionetworks Inc, USA. He has more than 22 years of experience in both academic and production areas of aquaculture. He has held management positions at the three levels in shrimp production; maturation, hatchery and growout. Email: fernando.garcia@epicorebionetworks.com This article was extracted from a presentation on “Third phase in farms: does it work and how can it work? Benefits beyond EMS/AHPND” presented at the TARS 2014: Shrimp Aquaculture - Recovery • Revival • Renaissance, 20-21 August, Phuket, Thailand. Some updated information has been included.

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World Fish Center Releases Report on Climate Change and Aquatic Animal Disease

The World Fish Center, Penang, Malaysia, recently released a report entitled Climate Change and Aquatic Animal Disease. The report, prepared by Chadag Mohan, was developed as part of a larger initiative to assess risk and vulnerability of agricultural systems to different climate change scenarios at regional, national and local levels, including but not limited to pests and diseases.

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upport for the work was provided by the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) research program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS). The following are some key policy and research related recommendations from the report: Evaluate usefulness of aquaculture as a climate smart adaptation and mitigation strategy: It is believed that aquaculture, in view of its resilience and adaptability and diversity of species cultured will be able to respond appropriately to climate change impacts and emerge as an alternative source of livelihoods for many. There is an urgent need at the policy level to evaluate usefulness of aquaculture as a climate-smart adaptation and mitigation strategy in climate sensitive geographies, so that its potential can be achieved in suitable geographies. Build capacity for science based import risk analysis and development of biosecurity governance mechanisms: It is expected that there will be increasing pressure to change culture species to deal with disease impacts due to climate change. This will lead to increased industry demand for trans-boundary

translocation of new fish and shellfish species. Building capacity for science based import risk analysis and development of biosecurity governance mechanisms in exporting and importing countries to manage risks of disease spread to receiving environments should be given high priority. Provide enabling policy and investment support: to implement aquatic animal disease management and biosecurity, to prevent future disease losses associated with climate change in lower latitude aquaculture. Manage risk by investing in food production systems with lower risk of losses: For the purpose of planning and investment, there is a need to look beyond aquaculture, and assess to what extent investments into increased animal food production through aquaculture represents a higher or lower risk of losses to climate change than livestock, and even other food production sectors, in climate sensitive geographies. Prioritise research to identify suitable adaptation/mitigation strategies: Research and development should be aimed at understanding interactions between climate sensitive aquaculture landscapes along with their aquatic hosts and climate sensitive aquatic animal diseases, mapping of potential risks, identification of suitable adaptation/mitigation intervention strategies, if we are

to meet the future seafood demand for 9 billion people by 2050. Invest in breeding programs for salinity and thermo tolerant breeds: to address issues of seawater intrusion leading to salinity increases and rise in temperature. Develop and implement better management practices (BMPs): to address aquatic animal health risks specific for farming systems that are impacted by climate change. This will enable these farming systems to make suitable adjustments and become resilient. The report points out that although aquaculture represents a significant opportunity to improve the supply of nutritious animal source foods in the diets of poor consumers, the likely impacts of climate change on aquaculture can be expected to differ significantly in different climatic regions. Globally, the greatest volume of aquaculture production is found in tropical and sub-tropical regions, with Asia accounting for more than 80% of total harvests. Some examples are presented of climate change impacts that could occur specifically in this region in the coming decades, including increasing temperatures, sea level rise, changes in ocean productivity and circulation patterns, stress on existing water resources, changes in monsoon patterns, and the increased occurrence of extreme weather events. The case can be made that, in

view of its resilience and adaptability as well as a diversity of species available for culture, aquaculture should be able to respond more effectively to climate change impacts than many traditional forms of agriculture. However, the report points out that climate change may also impact susceptibility or resistance to diseases in many farmed aquatic species. The author highlights the potential influence of climate change on key aquatic diseases in Asia (many of which are also found in various parts of the globe). Examples include Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome - EUS, Koi herpes virus, Viral Encephalopathy and Retinopathy - VER, White Spot Disease, Streptococcus, fish ectoparasites such as Argulus and Lernea, and the recently-recognized AHPND (also known as EMS) in shrimp. The report reminds us that â&#x20AC;&#x153;With globalization and increasing volume of international trade in live aquatic animals and their products, new pathways have been created for spread of trans-boundary aquatic animal pathogens. Intensive aquaculture operations provide an ideal platform for emergence of serious aquatic pathogens. Irrespective of disease risks involved, aquaculture and global trade will continue to intensify and expand.â&#x20AC;? The entire report can be accessed at: https://cgspace.cgiar.org/ bitstream/handle/10568/66594/ Formatted%20aquatic%20FINAL. pdf ?sequence=3

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FEATURE STORY

Understanding the French market for tropical shrimp

France is the second largest outlet for tropical shrimp in Europe with a consumerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market estimated at 700 million Euros By Marie Christine Monfort

wenty year or so after their successful introduction on the French market, tropical or warm water shrimp are still poorly marketed and pockets of opportunities are still numerous. The French market for tropical shrimp is a no-brand no-logo market. The market is still dominated (62% market share in value) by unpacked products cooked in France or Spain. This huge food market is one of the few remaining where product information available to consumers is poor (often below what is required by the legislation) and where no logo, no brand, no origin, and no company names are highlighted. The segment for frozen seafood (17%) is as well an anonymous segment: no brand, no logo, no renowned company identification on it.

Why do producers pay so little attention to markets? Why is it so? Shrimp is still dominantly sold by production oriented managers, concentrating their efforts and attention at achieving the highest possible yields, and avoiding diseases 12 Âť

($900 million) in 2014.

related mortality. Shrimp managers are product-focused and may not be too curious about the second life of their products. They don’t seem too concerned about what happens when products arrive on the consumers’ market. They sell it and forget about it. This is a marketing weakness, yet not specific to shrimp producers. Market information is available to allow executives and exporters in the shrimp business to change focus, and for a couple of hours and more, with their commercial team, to place the customers at the centre of their concern. What happens to their batch of 40-60 pieces Penaeus vannamei shrimp that they sold at X $/kg to importer Y? Could their client have done better? Could they have sold at a higher price? What about their competitors? How are they positioned?

Consumers’ prices Retail prices vary greatly by product, even when they are very similar. For instance HOSO cooked Penaeus vannamei of size 40-60 pieces per kilo was sold at prices ranging from 8.70 €/kg to 15.20 €/kg. Retail prices for shrimp of size 80-100 pieces per kilo, range from 11.98 € to 15.45 €/kg. These products were rigorously identical but for the place they were sold and the brand they carried. This is a strong indication that the level of knowledge of French consumers is still very low. They don’t have a reference price per kilo in mind, partly because buying shrimp is still very occasional. In the following chart we see that the same product, organic Penaeus vannamei from Ecuador is sold in two different shops with a 38% price difference. Consumers don’t look at the per kilo price; they have another price in mind i.e. what they are willing to pay for a special occasion. For getting a few organic shrimp, they are willing to pay about 5.50 €/kg. As a producer you can play a bit on the size of the shrimp, and on the size of the pack.

What product value offers a better price to the producer? A recent report by the author (The French Market for Tropical Shrimps: Products and Performances: An Updated Analysis) indicates that the closer to the market, the higher the mark-up. But does immaterial value (such as origin certification, quality certification, social responsibility reassurance or environmental guarantees made visible to the consumer) add a premium that the producer can access? This is probably one of most promising avenues, which has not yet been fully explored. When it comes to origin, only Madagascar producers build a specific differentiation strategy. Madagascar shrimp have a great reputation among fishmongers, even if not among end consumers. No other origin is recognised by market players, and thus receives no loyalty. The report shows this very clearly; in describing in detail the total supply, it shows many products which are labelled “coming from Nicaragua, Indonesia, or other countries.” Another product says it comes from either “Honduras or Ecuador or Vietnam.” Lack of real preferences implies possible substitution from one to another, and no price difference. Organic shrimp are less visible to consumers than a few years ago. This does not mean that the demand has declined; this is more the effect of the higher demand on other markets, and probably the level of worldwide supplies. In a context of negative media coverage concerning the working conditions for shrimp producers (fishing and farming), it would be wise for producers to prepare some positive communication to convey

to their buyers, and possibly to their end customers. It must be noted that out of the 190 products precisely described, only one product promoted the good social conditions prevailing during the farming of that shrimp: farmed Penaeus monodon by Unima in Madagascar and sold under the brand Filière Qualité Carrefour.

Understanding the value chain If 100% of all Non EU shrimp are imported in frozen form, more than 80% are sold in a chilled state. Value is added to shrimp in France or in other European countries in the premises of cooking units or processing companies. Through processing, shrimp lose some of their characteristics and get new ones. When an Ecuador product is sold cooked HOSO on the end market, the country of origin is indicated, but in small letters, on the side of the pack. When the shrimp is cooked and peeled in the Delabli Company it is not traded anymore as an Ecuadorian shrimp, but as a shrimp processed in France. Ecuador is the largest supplier of shrimp in France, but householders would not be able to mention Ecuador, Columbia, India, nor Thailand as sources for tropical shrimp. Better knowing the market definitely gives better chances to producers and exporters to position their products and adapt their marketing strategy according to the market reality, and the company objectives. From: The French Market for Tropical Shrimps: Products and Performances: An Updated Analysis. Available on www.marketing-seafood.com Marie Christine Monfort, Msc both in economics and marketing, is a consultant in the seafood industry. She has observed and analysed the European market for seafood for 25 years. More information is available at www.marketing-seafood

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news

North Carolina Senate Passes Budget Including Oyster Development Initiatives

Released by Senator Bill Cook, June 18, 2015.

ighlights of the Senate budget on coastal issues include: • Supports three initiatives related to Oyster development (cultch planting, oyster sanctuaries, and oyster research to develop North Carolina oyster broodstock to provide seed for aquaculture) totaling just over $2 million over the biennium. • Requires the Division of Marine Fisheries to create a proposal to open certain areas of the Core Sound to shellfish cultivation leasing. There are some very lucrative lease sites in the Core Sound but they cannot be used due to a lease moratorium law. • Amends the Senator Jean Preston Marine Shellfish Sanctuary. It re-

Shucked oysters Courtesy North Carolina Shellfish Growers Association.

quires the Division to develop a plan to construct and manage additional oyster habitat and requires that the new sanctuaries along with existing oyster sanctuaries be included in the Senator Jean Preston Oyster Sanctuary Network. Amends current statute to allow a shellfish cultivation lease survey to be produced by using global positioning system data. • Reforms the shellfish cultivation leasing process to which renewal leases would be issued for a period of 10 years, instead of 5 years. • Establishes the Blue Ribbon Oyster Panel, a stakeholder working group to study and advance efforts to ecologically restore the resource and achieve economic stability of the shellfish aquaculture industry.

Oysters, courtesy North Carolina Shellfish Growers Association.

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• Stops the authorization of a Joint Enforcement Agreement (JEA) between our state Marine Patrol inspectors and the law enforcement branch of the National Marine Fisheries Service. • Places a one year moratorium on any temporary supplemental management process to our state’s fishery management plans. While also directing the Marine Fisheries Commission to study its procedures, and to submit the report no later than May 1, 2016, to the General Assembly. “The shellfish cultivation industry in North Carolina could be a much larger part of our economy. We import 75% of the oysters consumed in North Carolina, yet we have the second largest estuary system in the United States and the largest contained in one state,”Cook said. “Last year, Virginia’s cultured shellfish was valued at $64 million. Our state produced only $330,000 worth of cultured shellfish. This budget puts our state on the path to growing this industry and taking advantage of our abundant natural water resources.”

For more information, contact Bill.Cook@ncleg.net And, visit the North Carolina Shellfish Growers Association at www.ncshellfish.org

NEWS

Highlight from the most recent AADAP Newsletter (Volume 11-1) Update on 17MT

meeting was convened at Aquaculture America 2015 to discuss the status of long-running efforts to gain FDA-approval for the use of 17α methyltestosterone (17MT) to produce predominately male populations of tilapia. The meeting was well attended by all key players, including representatives from AADAP, CVM, the sponsor (Rangen Feeds, Inc.), and the tilapia, tropical fish, and trout, industries (Note: Although use of 17MT in tilapia has been the primary focus of efforts, it has long been recognized that there is interest in “similar” 17MT use in other commercial AND resource management species). The greatest threat facing an initial approval for the use of 17MT in tilapia at the moment is also the most dreaded - we have not been able to locate a pharmaceutical sponsor willing to step-up and manufacture the product (17MT) according to FDA requirements. Obviously, no product equals no opportunity for product approval. Over-the-years, there have actually been a number of potential 17MT sponsors that have been identified, and each has provided us product for research and use under tilapia INAD exemption for a period of years. Unfortunately, and at the end-of-the-day, each of these sponsors has left the

“approval table.” The “pain” of the current situation is exacerbated by the fact the 17MT/tilapia effectiveness, target animal safety, and human food safety technical sections have been completed and accepted by FDA, and we believe we have a clear path to completion of the environmental safety technical section - which leaves identification of a sponsor and completion of product chemistry, manufacturing, and controls technical section requirements the ONE real outstanding piece of the puzzle. None-the-less, hope springs eternal and we are guardedly optimistic.

As a group we are currently making a “full-court press” and exploring all options to locate/find a committed sponsor for 17MT. We are also hopeful that the global tilapia industry, which is a significant economic-driver and obviously has a vested interest in our ultimate success, may be able/ willing to assist us. We’ve cast a wide net into the water, but to say more at this time would be premature. Stay tuned and keep your fingers crossed! To subscribe to the newsletter, or for more information about the AADAP, contact Molly Bowman at molly_bowman@fws.gov

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research report

Growth and survival

of the species Orthopristis ruber (Cuvier, 1830) as a new alternative for aquaculture production, Isla de Margarita, Nueva Esparta State, Venezuela By: Claudelys Gonzalez Ferrer y Lisbeth Villarroel Butto*

he group known as perciformes includes about 40% of all marine and freshwater fish, and it is one of the most commercially exploited orders due to its high market demand worldwide. The animals belonging to the genus Orthopristis within this order stand out, being targeted by both sports fishermen and artisanal fishing communities for subsistence in the Western Central Atlantic. In some countries the capture of this resource has become extremely important, as noted by a research program of CubanSoviet fisheries cooperatives in the Campeche Bank, which reported it to be the main commercial species caught by trawling from 1962-1981. O. ruber, photo courtesy of www.guiapescadepraia.com

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Recently wild harvest of O. ruber has become insufficient to supply the growing demand generated in coastal areas as a result of increasing local populations and tourism. So, the development of marine fish farming and the study of new species that can afford to meet the needs of the people are necessary. In Venezuela, specifically on the island of Cubagua, trials have been conducted for different potential candidate species for marine aquaculture, highlighting the studies by Hurtado and Bashirulla, in 1974 feeding trials with Lutjanus griseus. Prieto determined the growth in weight and size of the porgy Ocyurus chrysurus with two types of diets in 2009, without finding significant differences. On the island of Margarita, fish culture trials began with Trachinotus goodie, a common species in the country. Gomez and CervigĂłn investigated its growth and fattening in floating cages in 1984.

In eastern Venezuela, O. ruber, better known as Corocoro Congo, is characterized by a slender and somewhat compressed body with a grayish coloration. This species is widely

consumed and appreciated for its magnificent meat, occupying an important place in commercial catches and generating a great demand for fresh product. Due to its character-

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research report

In eastern Venezuela, O. ruber, better known as Corocoro Congo, is characterized by a slender and somewhat compressed body with a grayish coloration.

istic high demand and low supply, it has recently been widely recognized that it is necessary to conduct studies to evaluate the aquaculture potential of this species in the country.

Tanks used for the process of acclimatization.

18 Âť

Materials and Methods This experiment was conducted for a period of 12 weeks at the School of Applied Marine science at the University of the Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nueva Esparta

Center, located within the boundaries of the Laguna de la Restinga National Park, Macanao Peninsula, in Nueva Esparta state. For cultivation, floating cylindri-

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research report

O. ruber exhibited continuous growth in both size and weight during the culture period, indicating that these fish adapted well, both to the culture system and the supplied food

cal cages with total volumes of 2.40 mÂł were designed and constructed. Juveniles of the species were collected from natural habitats using a fishing net, moved in barrels with lids and placed in 940L tanks for acclimation for a period of 48h. Stocking density used in cages was 10 fish / mÂł and fish were weighed and measured before stocking and every 15 days during the growing season. The animals were fed daily to satiation with forage fish which were cut into small pieces for easy digestion. Once the culture period was completed and sample weights and lengths of the organisms were compiled we proceeded to construct growth curves. Data were entered in the Statgraphics Centurion and Excel 2007 programs and later we determined values for condition factor (K), specific growth rate in weight (TECP), Survival (S), and total biomass (B) (Table 1).

Results and discussion During the 12 weeks of culture O. ruber averaged weight gains of 66.7 grams. The fish also exhibited an average condition factor of 2.02, a specific rate of growth in weight of 1.44% and total biomass of 1.6 kg, together with an overall survival of 100% (Table 2, Figures 1 and 2). O. ruber exhibited continuous growth in both size and weight during the culture period, indicating that these fish adapted well, both to

20 Âť

Once the culture period Cocoroca

was completed and sample weights and lengths of the organisms were compiled we proceeded to construct growth curves.

Venezuela

Isla de Margarita, Nueva Esparta State Venezuela

School of Applied Marine science at the University of the Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nueva Esparta Center

Laguna de la Restinga

Location of growing area.

the culture system and the supplied food. Regarding the condition factor, (K) reflects the health and welfare of fish during cultivation, and these are influenced by the availability, quantity and quality of food present, by the physiological changes of the species and by abiotic factors of each system. Based on this we can say that the observed factor was appropriate for O. ruber. Moreover, O. ruber exhibited an acceptable specified rate of growth in weight (TECP) indicating that the species is properly adapted to the fresh food provided during the study. Finally, the high survival obtained indicates that this species has a high tolerance to manipulation, good disease resistance and adaptability to fluctuating water quality. *Claudelys Gonzalez Ferrer holds a degree in Aquaculture from the Universidad de Oriente in Venezuela. She is currently employed at the Institute for Environmental Restoration and Improvement in Nueva Esparta. She can be reached at cgacuaculture@gmail.com Lisbeth Villarroel Butto has a degree in Aquaculture from the University of Oriente in Venezuela. Currently she works at the National Institute for Socialist Training and Education Nueva Esparta ( inces ). She can be reached by email: lisvillarroelbutto@gmail.com

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news

ASC

opens first round of public consultation on Responsible Feed Standard The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has opened the first round of public consultation on the initial draft of its Responsible Feed Standard. The consultation will close on Friday, 11 September 2015.

he feed standard is for mills producing feed for aquaculture. The standard will recognise producers who can demonstrate their environmentally and socially responsible feed sourcing methods and allow them to gain recognition for their efforts. As well as being applicable to feed mills seeking ASC certification the standard could be used by other certification programmes as a reference point.

Invitation to review and comment on the new standard During the 74 days of public consultation, stakeholders are invited to review and comment on the initial draft of the ASC Responsible Feed Standard and its requirements. The ASC is committed to the guidelines laid out by the Food and Agriculture Organisations of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Social, Environment, Accreditation and Labelling Alliance (ISEAL) standard setting code. In line with their requirements this standard is being developed by a multistakeholder Steering Committee and 22 »

through expert input from four Technical Working Groups. Michiel Fransen, Secretary for the Responsible Feed Project, said: “This is the first opportunity for stakeholders to offer their expertise and help decide the final content of the ASC Feed Standard. We began working on the ASC Feed Standard at the end of October 2013. Over the last 18 months a diverse group of experts has helped shape the content of this initial draft of the standard. This review is important to thoroughly test and challenge the draft before we move forward, as well as consider the key issues on which the Steering Committee is particularly seeking feedback.”

Photo courtesy of Nicolas Privet.

In addition to the online consultation, four outreach workshops will be organised to present the draft standard and gather feedback. The workshops will be held in Guangzhou (China), Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Bangkok (Thailand) and Santiago (Chile). Please send any questions about the Responsible Feed Standard review to Michiel Fransen at: michiel. fransen@asc-aqua.org

About ASC The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) is an independent, not-forprofit organisation co-founded by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and The Sustainable Trade Initiative (IDH) in 2010 to manage the certification of responsible fish farming across the globe. The ASC standards require farm performance to be measured against both environmental and social requirements. Certification is through an independent third party process and (draft) reports are uploaded to How to take part in the the public ASC website. consultation The on-pack ASC logo assures The first round of consultation will consumers that the fish they purrun from 30 June to 11 September chase has been farmed with minimal 2015. A follow-up round of consul- impacts on the environment and on tation will take place towards the end society. of 2015. Anyone can view the draft Responsible Feed Standard and share their For more information about ASC please visit www.asc-aqua.org expertise and experience through the Media contact. Sun Brage: sun.brage@asc-aqua.org. Phone: +31 (0) 30 2305 692 consultation.

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note

Vision for

packaging in the seafood industry From the time we harvest right through the supply chain to the time we deliver the harvest to the end users we are using many thousands of tons of plastic, Styrofoam and other packaging which is damaging our oceans - our own ‘backyard’. Since such packaging was invented we have accepted it and it has become entrenched in our businesses.

t is time to challenge such uses and to find solutions to these packaging aids. The Association of International Seafood Professionals (ASIP) has been seeking to work with others who share our concerns and have recently had meaningful discussions with Shiva Balivada, the Father of nanotechnology applications in India and Co-Founder of Polar Bear International. “It is estimated three point five million pieces of new plastic enter the world’s oceans daily. Global currents accumulate them into huge circulating ocean gyres causing countless damage to marine life along the 24 »

way. It is a global issue and as a global group AISP are very supportive of the work of Polar Bear International and will seek to assist in all areas of information, education and communication of this great initiative,” said AISP Executive Director, Roy Palmer on the eve of World Ocean’s Day. Shiva is well known through Senior Leadership Roles and as a Technology evangelist. He has worked with many world-class organizations which include Home Depot, Johnson & Johnson, Delta, XEROX, FedEx, Compaq, AutoZone and Bank One. He has been a part of the initial team of successful Indian software compa-

nies like Tata Technologies, HTMT and MphasiS BFL wherein he has played a significant role in nurturing them at their nascent stage. Mr. Balivada became an entrepreneur in 2007 with a focus on Nanotechnology, Telecom and IT. He has many successes like India’s First Online System, First Software India Team in Comdex in 1987 heralding the Great Software outsourcing revolution, First CASE tool for Software developers, First WiFi phone, First WiMAX Base station and Nanotechnology Applications. As the United Nations states “The Ocean is the heart of our planet. Like your heart pumping blood to every part of your body, the ocean connects people across the Earth, no matter where we live. The ocean regulates the climate, feeds millions of people every year, produces oxygen, is the home to an incredible array of wildlife, provides us with important medicines, and so much more! In order to ensure the health and safety of our communities and future generations, it’s imperative that we take the responsibility to care for the ocean as it cares for us.” Shiva has long recognized how we can change poor habits through innovation and technology and turn pollution activities into positive solutions for the oceans while increasing sanitation, water and food opportunities. AISP aim to work with Polar Bear International and our partner charity, Aquaculture Without Frontiers, to create specific projects which will maximise these concepts and be seen as a catalyst for change in packaging right through the global seafood industry while assisting the poor and hungry improve their health, nutrition and food security. For more information, contact AISP at: Suite 2312 | Clarendon Towers | 80 Clarendon Street | SOUTHBANK VIC 3006 | Australia. Tel: +61 419 528733 / email: palmerroyd@gmail.com Skype: seafoodhealth, Website: http://seafoodprofessionals.org / http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Association-International-Seafood-Professionals-3814650

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NOTE

Leaders in Aquaculture Convene at the

BC Seafood Expo & Workshop Series

“

CVED has the ability to facilitate and foster significant expansion in our region’s shellfish industry,” said Geoff Crawford, Business Development Manager, Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism. “Hosting [this event] allows us to support the local and regional aquaculture industry by profiling business and investment opportunities, as well as innovations and the product development that’s occurring.” Workshop topics included: Exploring the Business of Closed-Containment Aquaculture; 7 Billion People are Coming to Dinner – Feeding the World vs. Fisheries; How to Get Your Product from Here to There – Cross Border Trade and Distribution Channels to Grow Business; The Evolution of Salmon Aquaculture; European Trade Policies and Seafood Business Opportunities; and The Changing Tide – How the Seafood Industry is Adapting to Ocean Acidification. Speakers included experts in economics, research, science, trade and distribution, fisheries, and aquaculture practices. 26 »

By Brenda Jones

The inaugural two-day BC Seafood Expo and Workshop Series (June 13 & 14), held on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is being called a resounding success by the organizer, Comox Valley Economic Development (CVED), and various participants. More than 150 people attended the workshops, which featured leading experts in the fields of aquaculture research and development, industry, and government representatives working in seafood export and trade. These experts and other stakeholders converged on the Comox Valley for this event to discuss issues and solutions to ensure that wild fisheries stay healthy, and to discuss sustainable aquaculture. These themes were reinforced during the keynote luncheon featuring a presentation by Dr. John Nightingale, CEO of the Vancouver Aquarium. Attendees came from across the globe to participate in this event, which included tours of aquaculture facilities. One such group that escorted international visitors was HQ Vancouver (HQV), a public-private

partnership with support from both the Canadian federal and BC governments and the Business Council of BC. Its specific mandate is to attract and expand companies’ headquarters in Vancouver, BC. At this event, HQV also educated international buyers about the business ecosystem in BC, and identified Asian companies with a possible interest in establishing a presence in BC. “Response from attendees was positive,” said Kenny Zhang, Director, Business Development, HQ Vancouver. “Some Asian businesses contacted HQV for further information and

support during and after the event. One has already made an investment in the aquaculture industry in BC and contacted HQV for assistance with its HR support.” Zhang also notes that buyers were impressed by the high quality and variety of seafood that BC offers, and were interested in seafood conservation and sustainability programs, like the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise program, which ensures that

consumers are purchasing a sustainable product. Manatee Holdings Hatchery saw 50 visitors come through on site tours of its Royston Hatchery operation of geoduck, sea cucumbers, scallops and oysters. Manatee Holdings prides itself on operating using the best sustainable aquaculture practices available. “We were able to connect with people who needed education about the nature of our business,” said Lourdes

Gant, Vice-President and Chief Finance Officer, Manatee Holdings. “Most importantly, we raised awareness as to how Canadian aquaculture is very different from the United States, which what is read about most often online, and the species we aquaculture, including geoduck and sea cucumber, cannot be compared with the salmon farming model, for example.” Overall, CVED met its goals in terms of shining the spotlight on BC’s seafood and shellfish industries. “The pristine, nutrient-rich coastal waters surrounding the region provide the perfect location for our aquaculture producers to grow the highest quality of seafood, which is shipped globally and can be found on menus throughout the world,” said Crawford. Brenda Jones, APR, is a freelance writer and Communications Consultant at Nyac Public Relations, based in British Columbia. Previously, she managed Public Relations at the Vancouver Aquarium for 4 years, where she helped launch its Ocean Wise seafood conservation program.

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news story

Project aims to be the First, Self-Sustaining,

Symbiotic Agricultural Ecosystem to Harvest Heat Emitted from Underground Data Center

nvironmental attorney, consultant and geothermal expert, J. Duncan Shorey, recently announced the formation of The Foundry Project, a redevelopment of an 8-acre brownfield that will be transformed into a sustainable commercial farm. It will be the first agricultural ecosystem to recycle waste heat from an underground data center and reuse the heat for the on-site aquaculture facility, the Northcoast Fish Farm, LLC. The first initiative will be the aquaculture facility, a for-profit $4.5 million fish farm with a production goal of 500,000 pounds a year of Branzino, or Mediterranean Sea bass. The farm’s projected annual harvest will equate to 5% of the total US imports of sea bass. Another element of The Foundry Project plan includes constructing a 20,000 – 40,000 square foot underground bunkered data center. Once a customer is identified, approximately six months would be required to initiate construction. The data center would take advantage of the three 100-gigabit per second fiber networks located in adjacent rail lines, allowing access to the one of the world’s fastest Internet connections. This would be the first data center in the world where waste heat is reused to provide heat for an aquaculture farm and would represent a breakthrough for reducing the carbon footprint of a data center. Branzino grown at the farm will be sold either locally to wholesalers, 28 »

Located in Cleveland, Indoor Aquaculture Farm is the first initiative of the Ecosystem slated to launch in Q4 2015.

or to live-fish brokers who serve specialty markets. Letters of intent have been struck with both US and Canadian live fish brokers to distribute the farm’s production in their regions. “Northcoast Fish Farm will fill a major void in Northeast Ohio for sourcing quality fish,” says Chef Douglas Katz, Chef/Owner of Fire Food and Drink, Chef Partner at Provenance at the Cleveland Museum of Art and international advocate of sustainable food systems. “I am committed to using local, sustainably-produced foods at our restaurants. That the fish production is so close to our restaurants will assure the fish we receive is extremely fresh.” Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch®, a nonprofit organization that makes recommendations to help consumers choose seafood that’s fished or farmed in ways that have less impact on the environment, recently awarded RAS-harvested Branzino as a “Best Choice” standard, the highest rating given by Seafood Watch based on their criteria for aquaculture. “It is part of our dream at Ohio State to have high-quality sustainable fish available on a regular basis,” says Laura Tiu, PhD, Aquaculture Extension Specialist with The Ohio State University. “It’s exciting to think that we can develop a new industry that will revolutionize the production of fish in Ohio.”

Courtesy of The Foundry Project.

Courtesy of Advanced Solutions Online.net

Unlike traditionally farmed fish, Northcoast Fish Farm plans to incorporate a proven, proprietary Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS), where water is cleaned, filtered and recycled to the fish culture tanks. This bio-secure method uses neither hormones nor antibiotics, making the farmed fish safe and sustainable. The design of the RAS is the brainchild of Steve Van Gorder, an internationally renowned expert and 37-year veteran of advanced aquaculture systems. He will oversee the initial operation of Northcoast Fish Farm. “The RAS is calibrated to grow fish in a low-stress environment that promotes rapid growth rates and minimizes fish feed costs and the net carbon footprint,” says Van Gorder, RAS Architect and President of Fresh Culture Systems. As part of the symbiotic, self-sustain-

ing ecosystem, all fish waste will be used as fertilizer either in greenhouses or local orchards, depending on the season. Shorey has been methodical in developing a comprehensive vision for The Foundry Project. In addition to the fish farm, orchards and a data center, The Foundry Project will include a sheep farm, live fish brokerage, farmer’s market, a cooking school whose focus is teaching local families how to cook in a healthier manner, and both an arts and technology incubator, where each area complements and benefits others. The project will have a campus-like feel where 24/7 security will be a top priority. “Redeveloping this property in the Fairfax-Woodland neighborhood will play a key role in recycling land back into productive use while creating new jobs and inspiration for local residents,” says Mike Foley, Director of Sustainability for Cuyahoga County. “It’s the right thing to do for the environment and the economy.” The east side foundry site is in a neighborhood characterized by shuttered industrial facilities and dilapidated housing stock. However, given the ongoing efforts to revitalize the inner city, driven by the expansion of the nearby University Circle/Cleveland Clinic/University Hospital’s complex as well as the new Opportunity Corridor Project (a new, $330 million dollar roadway linking the highway with University Circle), Shorey feels this area is primed for recovery. » 29

note

From tiles to fish fry:

School of Freshwater Sciences increases its commitment to burgeoning urban aquaculture industry through research and education

30 »

ILWAUKEE – Where once a factory floor produced architectural tiles, now the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee School of Freshwater Sciences (SFS) will break ground by building a cutting edge aquaculture research and teaching facility. The goal is to put Wisconsin´s fish fry with Great Lakes fish on the world´s plates using intensive urban aquaculture and aquaponics. UWM Chancellor Mark Mone highlighted the essential role of the School of Freshwater Sciences as a technology testbed for novel aquaculture processes. “It is great to see fundamental ecological research being translated into sustainable food production in a potential new industry.” “This work that has been going on with the US Department of Agriculture for more than 15 years has now been translated into a sound economic investment proposition,” said Chancellor Mone. This facility will provide 12,600 square feet of teaching space and research space for aquaculture in the school. In this space, faculty and researchers will improve technologies in fish nutrition, indoor and recirculating aquaculture, aquaponics and vertical farming, and will also link to the SFS´s recent addition of an undergraduate certificate in Urban Aquaculture. “This is a win for all – new investment, new Jobs, training and huge demand for new graduates as industry takes off. With it should come additional investment in aquaculture and aquaponics research,” said David Garman, Dean of the School of Freshwater Sciences. “One key to this succeeding is training this new generation of fish farmers.” This new program allows juniorand senior- level students, as well as professional audiences, to train and learn practical aspects of rearing fish in recirculating production systems. This new technology allows the repurposing of former industrial space

to grow high quality food in large quantities, while at the same time reducing the environmental footprint of this industry. Other applications to this program include biomedical and pharmaceutical research facilities, public aquaria and animal parks, and conservation and stocking of game and endangered species. “With this technology, you can have aquaculture anywhere, so long as you have a good water supply, space to raise your fish, and a trained workforce,” said Jhonatan Sepulveda Villet, Assistant professor and program director of the urban aquaculture certificate at SFS. “We will now have all three here in Milwaukee, thanks to this program”. As water use and availability issues continue to develop throughout the

country and beyond, it is clear that reducing the use of water will increasingly become a pressing need for food production systems. By reusing and recycling the water in the fish rearing systems, urban aquaculture will lead the field in sustainability. Additionally, by capturing the waste produced by the fish and using it as a high-quality fertilizer, what would be a problem instead becomes a promising solution in local food production in cities and communities. Will Allen from Growing Power, a community-based organization in urban Milwaukee, utilizes these same principles in collaboration with researchers of the School of Freshwater Sciences to grow fish and vegetables for local communities. “We have shown how at Growing Power on a smaller scale we can produce Yellow Perch and vegetables

sustainably for the community and SFS´s expertise was a key to achieving this. This new training will enable the industry to grow and provide the skill base to make the industry succeed.” As the public becomes more aware of the value in locally-grown, high quality food, urban aquaculture and aquaponics continue to increase in appeal to resolve the deficits in protein and fresh produce within inner city neighborhoods. “We not only teach graduates,” said Fred Binkowski, lead aquaculture researcher at the School of Freshwater Science. “We have extended this as a STEM program in Schools throughout Wisconsin, as an undergraduate research program and in assisting Hunger Task Force.” These efforts are now complemented with the new undergraduate and graduate programs in urban aquaculture offered at the School of Freshwater Sciences, which strives to educate a new generation of the aquaculture workforce. This certificate program is the direct result of a UW System incentive grant provided to the School of Freshwater Sciences. The funding of the teaching laboratory was undertaken to provide a skilled workforce, the next generation of skilled aquaculturalists and to stimulate new investment, produce new Jobs and establish industries. Based on positive interest generated, SFS will institute a condensed several week summer program targeting recent bachelor graduates, professionals, and anyone interested in furthering their aquaculture knowledge. The mission of the UWM School of Freshwater Science is to train the next generation of freshwater professionals and to advance fundamental and strategic science to inform policy, improve management, and promote the health and sustainability of freshwater systems worldwide. Contact Jhonatan Villet (sepulveo@uwm.edu) or visit www.uwm.edu/freshwater/

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research report

In competition for the Gold Medal with bananas

Ecuador achieved record shrimp production in 2014: 330,000 tons

uan Carlos Rodas, Manager of Alltech Ecuador, and Indira Cedeño, advocate for the shrimp industry of Ecuador, enthusiastically related that last year the shrimp industry surpassed bananas as the most profitable commodity of the coastal region. This revelation, for connoisseurs, is surprising. Although oil is its biggest export product, the tropical climate and nutrient-rich soil nuture Ecuador’s agricultural industry, the highlight of which is banana production, exceeding all other products. But, as indicated by Ms. Cedeño, due In synthesis The cultivation of white shrimp in Ecuador at the end of 2014, in numbers: · 330,000 tons of production (live weight) · 200,000 hectares in production · 2.2 production cycles per year · 0.750 ton yield / hectare 32 »

At the end of 2013, Ecuador’s shrimp industry had 80 exporting companies and more than 300 registered producers, with 180 thousand families benefitting economically (Ecuador National Chamber of Aquaculture).

to stable prices for bananas and increases in shrimp prices caused by the fall of production in Asia (EMS outbreaks), Ecuador has reorganized its shrimp production and exports, emerging as one of the leaders in world production. Although Asian shrimp producers have begun to control the EMS outbreak according to the experts, Ecuador has maintained its leadership in quality.

The context Ecuador, located in the Northwest of South America, has an area of 283,500 km2, and a population that

exceeds 16 million inhabitants. It has historically been an exporting country. Oil is the main export product generating the greatest amount of foreign currency, followed by bananas, then shrimp, tuna and cocoa, now recognized as traditional export products. The production of shrimp in Ecuador began in 1968, although the real expansion began in the mid 70’s, in the provinces of El Oro and Guayas, with extensive exploitation of the Pacific white shrimp that was very successful and expanded to lands previously in agriculture and mangroves. In the 1980s Ecuador

became the first exporter of farmed shrimp in the world. In the 1990s production fell considerably due to the Taura Syndrome Virus, and also in the year 2000 with the appearance of the white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). After these two calamities, the industry began to recover, learning many hard won lessons in the prevention of diseases, and in sustainable practices (or, best practices). By the end of 2014, shrimp surpassed the historically leading export product, bananas, to generate foreign currency of USD$2,289.6 million. This was almost USD$100 million more than the value for bananas, and the shrimp farming industry consolidated itself as the leading product among the traditional exports of Ecuador. All the factors that influenced this sustained growth are based on the quality of the product, improvements in productivity, development of promotional campaigns at the international level and, most importantly, the implementation of research and development laboratories. Agricultural exports have reemerged as priorities in state policies to support agriculture, the modernization of research which encourages the promotion of production, actual pricing policies, elimination of fees, recent trade agreements and, finally, economic integration. New markets in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, with some asymmetries, are also important. Ecuador’s exports have grown more than 30% since 2010. Non-oil

exports are between 42% and 48% of the total, while exports of oil range between 52% and 59%. In the past 3 years, there has been a noticeable upturn in non-oil exports. This effect was mainly due to: • Growth of banana exports between 2012 and 2014, by 28% (USD$370 million in the last 2 years). The average price has remained almost stable, with slight variation. • Growth of white shrimp exports: 28% more pounds exported between 2013 and 2014 (this represents 137 million pounds more, from one year to another); coupled with an increase in the average price of shrimp between 2012 and 2014: USD$2.52 per pound to USD$3.75 per pound. • Ecuadorian oil production has remained at an average of 310,000 barrels per day in the past 3 years, but drastic price drops since the second quarter of 2014 have had direct impacts.

These increases in exports are largely due to the efforts of Business and Producer Associations. On the other hand, there have arguably been price effects that were determining factors for both export products, but with greater impacts for shrimp. Ecuador’s shrimp industry is substantially different from 20 years ago. In the beginning, the production of shrimp in Ecuador was a very casual affair, with farmers attracted to the industry by high prices in the global market. Today, Ecuador’s shrimp aquaculture is more complex with producers, processors and researchers working together to prevent outbreaks of catastrophic diseases that were affecting the country in the 1990s and are now affecting Asian producers. Ecuador is no stranger to this kind of massive problem. It should be noted, however, that during the outbreak of WSSV in 2000 this country was able to erad-

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research report

icate the disease much more quickly than its competitors. This was due, in large part, to the low stocking densities in use (extensive 10-15 per m2), in comparison with their counterparts in Asia, who often stock more than 100 shrimp in the same area. Álex Elghoul, opinion leader and Director of the Cámara de Acuacultura of Santa Elena province, believes that current good conditions have resulted in more investment to modernize processes as well as in genetic improvements, both of which

34 »

have allowed the sustained development of the sector. Production decreases in Asia saw the rise of shrimp prices in Ecuador from USD$2 per pound on average in 2010 to USD$4 per pound in 2014. There are about 200 thousand hectares in Ecuador dedicated to shrimp production. The distribution among Provinces is: 60% in Guayas, 15% in El Oro, 9% in Esmeraldas, 9% in Manabi, and 7% in Santa Elena. Today, the outlook is favorable for this sector, which generates

more than 180,000 jobs. Challenges at hand are to develop new markets and generate greater investment in genetic work to prevent diseases in Ecuador, such as those that hit Asian countries.

The strategy in recent years There are five pillars that have boosted the production and exportation of Ecuador’s farmed shrimp. They are listed below: • Productivity index. Improved productivity per hectare, through following the best production practices. • Low density production. A countrywide average stocking rate of 6-7 PLs per m2, while Asian countries stock up to 150 PLs per m2. • Closed cycles. Implies no introduction of new varieties of shrimp that can carry new diseases in the country. • Improved trade agreements. With the increase in productivity in the country, and after the negotiations for a trade agreement with the European Union that was signed in July 2013, the Guild made sure that their product will enter without paying duty.

Marketing positioning campaigns. With the marketing campaign “The best shrimp in the world,” this slogan has been translated for major international buyers and markets. The idea is to show the quality of the product in the whole process before arriving to consumers. International markets The United States, China and Europe were major destinations of Ecuadorian shrimp during 2014. The Asian market accounted for 29% of the shrimp that Ecuador produced. Four years ago m it 2was only 4%, so the increase is noticeable. Europe imports 33% of Ecuadorian exports. Mexico was in 15th position among export markets for Ecuadorian shrimp in 2014; before this year it was not even in the top 50. The Guild is capturing new mar-

After the appearance of WSSV in Ecuador in the year 2000, the shrimp farming sector was reduced by 30% and only some 1,200 farms decided to continue this activity. After 14 years, the recovery is evident. By the end of 2014 there were around 3,000 farms.

kets even as they increase their export volumes. Vietnam and China are among the five main buyers of Ecuadorian product, and this is a sign that EMS contributed not only to shrimp price increases, but also that affected countries have started to order more product to meet local demand. Brazil is an inaccessible market for Ecuador. In 2009, the country issued a sanitary restriction that prevents the entry of Ecuadorian shrimp and those from other countries because of EMS. However, last year, Ecua-

dor’s National Fisheries Institute (INP) and Vice-Ministry of Aquaculture requested withdrawal of the blockade, as Ecuador demonstrated that it didn’t have the disease. However, Ecuadorian shrimp still can not enter that market.

What the future holds During the first quarter of 2015, the country experienced a change in trade policies to promote productive diversification. Protectionist measures to counter the exchange rate policies pursued by neighboring countries, as well as the stabilization of a negative trade balance have all been considered. On the other hand, in the banana sector, there is concern for the future. In the U.S., demand has maintained a directly proportional relationship to the growth of the population. In Russia and Europe, the economic crisis has impacted directly on the demand for bananas and recovery is not expected for several more years. “The good years of the banana are finished because Latin Countries such as Colombia, Honduras, Costa Rica and Guatemala are enhancing produc» 35

research report

tion with the passing years and they are benefitting from more advanced technology. In addition, they found interesting formulas to improve their rates of profitability through reducing costs in packaging and distribution,” says Eduardo Ledesma, director of the Association of Ecuadorian Banana Exporters. This denotes a complicated situation for the typical Ecuadorian producer. But the opposite has happened with shrimp, a product in which the learning curve shows a greater tendency than for most producers and

exporters around the world. “Those who take the lead in export and positioning of their product around the world will be the producers that are most advanced in the learning curve,” says Fernanda Vilches, Technical Executive of the Chamber of Aquaculture in Ecuador. “This is a product that will become a commodity, like the banana; it is a market that in the past 10 years has shown too many variations in levels of production, price, demand and diseases and this represents an opportunity for those who know how to handle it

Currently it is estimated that there is a worldwide shrimp deficit of nearly 30%, due to the decrease of production in Asia, caused primarily by early mortality syndrome (EMS) which has impacted shrimp farms in this region.

Among the most important contributions of Pro Ecuador are penetration into new markets and strengthening of established markets (with promotional events, contact with companies, trade missions, field visits, training, linkages between exporters and importers etc.), with a presence through 32 offices in countries like Dubai, UAE, Russia, Korea and others. Mexico was included in April 2014.

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more technically and professionally. We understand then that those who can maintain its stable production levels, invest in the growth of their productive areas and offer a healthy and quality product will have the best cards played on the table. The more aggressive diseases that affected the white shrimp (which is the Ecuadorian) are more developed in Asia, affecting the largest producers worldwide such as Thailand, and now India, the new and latest exporter in the world. “It’s a very simple effect: less offer means higher price and with greater price comes more revenue and more currency to grow in production. That should be the main focus of the Ecuadorian producers, without discarding the constant opening of new potential markets such as Brazil, where Ecuador has a competitive advantage due to its proximity compared with other international producers” ensures Vilches.

According to Danilo Albán Flores, director of the commercial office of Ecuador in Mexico (Pro Ecuador), Ecuador has a viable option to diversify with other value added species: “we know that the production of tilapia, usually increases when the price of shrimp is not good. Currently, we already offer 50 thousand tons of tilapia a year and also aim to mariculture this species. The answer lies in the sea,” he said.

* This text is based on a case study of research carried out by Jorge E. Arias, Global Director of aquaculture in Alltech; Gabriel Gualdoni, General Manager of Alltech Argentina; Juan Carlos Rodas, General Manager of Alltech Ecuador. Disseminated by Alltech corporate offices. *The case is based on information collected and presented by MkT Consulting Corporation of Ecuador. With special contributions taken from an exclusive Panorama Acuicola Magazine interview with officials of Pro Ecuador in Mexico: Danilo Albán Flores, Director of the Commercial Office of Ecuador in Mexico; and Ana Maria Gallardo, Commercial Specialist, and Romulo Andres Terreros, Commercial Specialist, both in the Commercial Office of Ecuador in Mexico.

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Corporate Ocean Responsibility:

Industry Leadership and Collaboration for Sustainable Development and the Blue Economy

t the same time, there are many other industries operating in the shared ocean with many of the same sustainable development challenges and opportunities. With the growing use of marine areas by an increasing variety of commercial interests there are increasingly complex risks from environmental impacts, conflicts in the use of marine space and resources and the development of policies and regulations that do not support responsible “Blue Growth” by both aquaculture and other ocean users. The best efforts by a single company or whole industry sector will not be able to address these challenges and opportunities. The World Ocean Council (WOC) brings leadership companies from the aquaculture industry together with those from the diverse range of ocean industries, e.g. shipping, fish38 »

By Paul Holthus, CEO, World Ocean Council

Aquaculture is increasingly important for feeding the world and the aquaculture industry depends on healthy marine ecosystems, clean marine waters, access to marine space and the social license to operate. Aquaculture industry leadership is essential to addressing these challenges and ensuring the long term health of the industry and the marine environment on which it depends. ing, oil and gas, tourism, offshore renewable energy, and others. The WOC creates an international multiindustry business leadership alliance on ocean sustainability, science and stewardship – “Corporate Ocean Responsibility.” In addition to the more than 80 WOC Members, the WOC network includes over 34,000 ocean industry stakeholders around the world.

The WOC Sustainable Ocean Summit (SOS) is the only multi-sectoral gathering of the international ocean business community with a focus on Corporate Ocean Responsibility. The 3rd SOS will convene the ocean business community in Singapore on 9-11 November 2015, around the theme of “Sustainable Development and Growing the Blue Economy - the Next 50 Years”.

Private sector access to ocean resources, services and space - even by companies with the best environmental record - is increasingly at risk from the loss of the social license to operate. Many of the policy, practical and reputational aspects of ocean industry activities are now affected, if not dominated, by environmental concerns. These issues are affecting all industries that use ocean space and resources. This is creating important needs and opportunities for collaboration in the ocean business community. Achieving sustainable ocean development requires a clear understanding of the status and trends in economic use of marine space and resources – as well as the potential new kinds and areas of use. Achieving a balance between ‘blue’ growth, jobs, and a sound maritime environment will largely be based on addressing the opportunities and challenges facing the diverse, extensive set of existing ocean activities. Success in improving ocean governance and sustainable marine development will require coordinated leadership and collaboration by the diverse ocean business community. Many companies want to address marine environmental issues, differentiate themselves from poor performers, collaborate within and across sectors, and engage other ocean stakeholders. Through the WOC there is now a structure and process for companies to work on complex, intertwined, international ocean sustainability issues. A multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder approach can result in cost-savings (e.g. collaborative research to develop best practices in sustainability and find science-based solutions to shared issues) and reduce the risk of costly, unplanned and unnecessary restrictions to responsible business operations in the marine environment. Addressing these ocean industry challenges requires good science, credible risk assessment, performance monitoring and the best available technology. To identify and address the priority ocean needs, the WOC has created cross-sectoral industry working groups in the priority program areas: ocean policy and governance; marine spatial planning/ ocean zoning; operational issues, e.g. biofouling and invasive species, marine debris, marine sound, marine mammal impacts, etc.; regional interests, e.g. the Arctic, Mediterranean, Caribbean; adaptation of ports and coastal infrastructure to sea level rise/extreme weather events; and the Smart OceanSmart Industries, i.e. data collection by industry. » 39

For example, the WOC flagship Smart Oceans-Smart Industries program helps to expand, improve and better coordinate the role of industry in collecting and sharing ocean, weather and climate data. The objective of this initiative is to ensure a wide range of industry vessels and facilities, e.g. aquaculture facilities, are participating in the collection of ocean data. This will contribute to describing the status, trends and variability of marine conditions. Industry involvement in providing such data can create direct benefits to the aquaculture industry in the form of improved modeling of ocean conditions and water quality, better forecasting of extreme events that may damage aquaculture installations, etc. As the global ocean continues to be home for an everincreasing kind, level and extent of economic activity, industry leadership and collaboration is key to sustainable ocean development and the future of the aquaculture industry. An increasing number and range of ocean industry companies from around the world are distinguishing themselves as leaders in “Corporate Ocean Responsibility” by joining the WOC. The Sustainable Ocean Summit (SOS), in Singapore on 9-11 November 2015, will bring together the ocean business community – including the aquaculture industry – to advance the collaboration needed for sustainable Blue Growth for responsible ocean use.

review

The Economist Events’ World Ocean Summit 2015

Gathered Policymakers and Business Leaders to Define the Future of the Blue Economy

ASCAIS, PORTUGAL — June, 2015 —Presented by The Economist Events, on June 3rd-5th, the third World Ocean Summit convened more than 380 leading ocean experts from around the globe to discuss challenges and opportunities in sustainable ocean development. The focus of this year’s summit was “the blue economy” – a new economic and business paradigm for the ocean. “The current reality is that much economic activity in and around the ocean remains detrimental to ocean health and to the long-term sustainability of ocean ecosystems,” said Charles Goddard, EIU Editorial Director of Asia-Pacific, in his opening remarks. “At this year’s summit, we will explore how to transition from a conventional ocean economy to a new blue economy that allows economic growth to flourish alongside a healthy ocean environment.” World Ocean Summit 2015‘s influential list of participants—from gov40 »

New Vision of the Ocean Aims to Deliver Both Economic Growth and Long-term Ocean Health.

ernment, business, NGOs, international organisations, think tanks and academia—heard that: • “Part of the potential of Africa is in the oceans,” according to Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, chairperson, African Union Commission. “Africa has a young population, making job creation vitally important. The development of the blue economy could be a driver of employment in Africa, if developed economies are willing to collaborate.” • The main threats to the ocean are illegal fishing, plastic and carbon emissions, warned John Kerry, Secretary of State, United States of America, in recorded testimony sent to the summit. • Policymakers from around the

world agreed that collaboration is vital if the blue economy is to be developed effectively: “We need a concerted effort. We have to get a blue alliance,” said Karmenu Vella, commissioner for environment, maritime affairs and fisheries, European Commission. “We can collectively create a way,” agreed Kathryn Sullivan, under-secretary for oceans and atmosphere, U.S. Department of Commerce; administrator, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. • Emerging economies have the chance to leapfrog developed economies in developing sustainable blue industries, argued Cecilia Reyes, chief investment officer and regional chairman of Asia-Pacific, Zurich Insurance Group. Example include eco-tourism

About The Economist Events The Economist Events is one of the world’s leading executive event providers. Its events are for intellectualy curious individuals who enjoy new ideas and are passionate about the issues that define our world. Whether it’s a summit, industry forum or gala dinner, these high-level gatherings bring The Economist to life and provide the ideal setting for interactive, open and informed debate with a uniquely global perspective. Senior executives value these events as important forums in which to exchange views and network with their peers.

ventures in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Maldives, small sustainable fishing companies in the Philippines feeding into global certificated supply chains, and strong climate change advocacy from small island developing states. • Good science must inform policy development if the blue economy is to be developed in a sustainable way. “We have to understand the environment in order to understand the impacts,” said Alex Rogers, professor of conservation biology, University of Oxford. • New industries such as aquaculture are driving the growth of the blue economy. In 2014, the consumption of farmed fish exceeded that of wild fish for the first time. With advances in tracking technology, data-driven monitoring platforms can give companies and governments near realtime data on activity in the seas. Pedro Passos Coelho, Prime Minister of Portugal, addressed participants on the final day of the conference, underscoring the importance of developing the blue economy: “The international community has created an incentive for innovation, which is a key to promoting the economic growth on the basis of activities related to the sea.”

Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editorin-Chief of The Economist, said after the event, “we had the right people in the room, and they were determined to make progress. It is very action oriented. This conference is about talking, understanding, and then coming up with solutions.” As part of the summit, The Economist Events’ first-ever Ocean Innovation Challenge, in co-operation with Blancpain, invited scalable, economically viable and environmentally sustainable innovations that strive to create or enhance business practices, industries or technologies that contribute to the long-term health of the ocean. The challenge received more than 60 entries worldwide and the top three finalists were invited to present their innovations at the summit. Liquid Robotics was the final winner of the Challenge. World Ocean Summit was hosted in association with the National Geographic. Blancpain and Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) were the Platinum sponsors for the World Ocean Summit 2015. WWF, Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics and the Walton Family Foundation were the Silver sponsors. Edelman is the official PR agency.

The EIU briefing paper “Investing in the blue economy” examines how money can be made from a growing ocean economy in a context where environmental considerations and principles of sustainable natural resource management could shape the investment environment. Download the briefing paper at http://www. economistinsights.com/sites/default/files/ Blue%20Economy_briefing%20paper_ WOS2015.pdf Also released at the summit, The Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Coastal Governance Index is the first-of-its-kind effort to measure regulation and effectiveness of coastal governance. Most countries score in the top half of the index suggesting that governments have taken initial steps to balance the needs of the environment and economic development. At the same time, no country is perfect, and none scores highly in all six categories. Please visit http:// www.economistinsights.com/sustainabilityresources/analysis/coastal-governance-index to download the index report. For more information, visit www. economistinsights.com/ocean. Join the conversation on Facebook (https:// www.facebook.com/WorldOceanSummit) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/economist_wos).

Press contact Molly Malloy Edelman Molly.Malloy@edelman.com (347) 633-8973

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Saving Coho Salmon:

It’s All About the Timing By Rich Press, NOAA Fisheries Science Writer

As NOAA biologists work to re-establish runs of coho salmon in California, they aim to bring back some of the diversity of the wild populations that once thrived there.

oho salmon used to run wild in the Santa Cruz Mountains of California. But those populations of coho were listed as endangered in the 1990s, and by 2008 the wild runs had declined to critically low numbers. Today, the remnants of those

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populations are hanging on with the help of a fish hatchery run by the non-profit Monterey Bay Salmon and Trout Project in collaboration with scientists from the NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Brian Spence and Joe Kiernan, both fisheries biologists and ecologists with NOAA Fisheries, are two of the scientists working with the hatchery. Together with other biologists, their goal is to increase the chances that coho salmon will run wild in the Santa Cruz Mountains again, and to do that, they’re doing more than just hatching fish and releasing them. In order to maximize their growth and survival, young salmon need to hit the ocean when conditions are just right. In coastal California , that would be when seasonal upwelling brings cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface. However, that window of opportunity can be brief and can vary in timing from year to year. If the coho miss it because of bad timing, fewer of them will survive. In Canada and Alaska—the heart of coho country—the young fish migrate out to sea over a short span

of time, usually about a month. But in California, which is the southern end of their natural range, coho salmon migrate over a longer period of time, typically two-to-three months. Spence and Kiernan believe that by migrating out over a longer period of time, wild coho in California are hedging their bets against unpredictable ocean conditions. Even though many fish may miss the most favorable ocean window in a given year, at least some of them will be sure to make it when conditions are optimal. To test this hypothesis, the two scientists have designed a clever experiment. Instead of the traditional hatchery practice of releasing all the smolts over a short period of time, they’re releasing them in batches over a ten-week period. Every smolt will be tagged prior to release so that the exact timing of their outmigration can be monitored. Further, when

the fish come back to spawn two years from now, the tags will allow scientists to determine which release batch they originated from. By doing this over several years, they hope to determine when the window of opportunity was opened each year. If indeed the period of favorable ocean conditions varies, then they will have demonstrated that hatchery practice—at least for coho salmon in this area—may need to change. By releasing smolts over a longer period of time, Spence and Kiernan are doing more than simply modifying hatchery practice. They’re seeking to reintroduce some of the natural variability in outmigration timing that was present in the wild population before it gave out. As endangered populations confront climate change and other threats, that variability may increase the chances that some of them will survive.

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research report

Genetic improvement of Pacific white shrimp [Penaeus (Litopenaeus) vannamei]: perspectives for genomic selection

Diseases are major constraints for aquaculture production. As vaccination is not an option in shrimp and management contention measures are frequently unfeasible, genetic selection is considered HĂŠctor Castillo-JuĂĄrez, Gabriel R. Campos-Montes, Alejandra Caballero-Zamora and Hugo H. Montaldo*

Introduction hrimp production is an important activity both in economic terms and from the perspective of its contribution to human nutrition. Total world shrimp production had a value of approximately $USD13.6 billion in 2013. The most important shrimp production regions in the world are located in Asia, principally China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, and in the Americas, primarily in Ecuador, Brazil, and Mexico (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations [FAO], 2014). 44 Âť

a possible option in fighting many diseases in P. vannamei and other shrimp species.

Genetic improvement is an important option for increasing profitability in agriculture and aquaculture (Gjedrem et al., 2012). Several shrimp breeding programs have been implemented in a number of countries, some of which have been reviewed by Neira (2010) and Rye (2012). The increasing importance of disease to shrimp farming worldwide has stimulated research for developing breeding programs for increasing disease resistance/tolerance to disease. Evidence for successful selection for disease resistance exists in shrimp for Taura virus and other dis-

eases (Cock et al., 2009; Lightner et al., 2012). In a few cases, alternative programs which combine mass selection in communally raised animals with recovery of family identification using DNA markers have been used in order to perform mating that avoids excessive increases in inbreeding rates and to select animals in the presence of disease, allowing natural selection to act toward increased genetic resistance (Rocha, 2012). Other programs have used experimental challenges combined with mass selection in successive generations and obtained increases in the genetic resistance to

White Spot Syndrome Virus (CuéllarAnjel et al., 2012).

Shrimp Breeding Programs Although many commercial shrimp breeding programs are not fully described, most are based on population structures typical for aquaculture breeding, using full- and half-sib family structures (Gjedrem et al., 2012). Most shrimp breeding programs focus on the improvement of growth traits and general survival rate. Some have concentrated on selection for specific diseases. These traits can be improved genetically by within-line selection. The Maricultura del Pacífico hatchery commercial line population was started in 1998 in Mexico, from a heterogeneous population formed by a mix of domesticated lines and wild shrimp from several origins. The main efforts have been directed toward conducting a breeding program to develop a genetic line oriented towards improving profitability of biomass production under the production conditions predominating in the north-

west part of Mexico. Since biomass production depends on harvest body weight and survival rates, these two traits have been incorporated as the broodstock selection criteria. The relative importance of each of these traits in the selection index used is 5:1 for harvest body weight and survival, respectively, which is based on economic studies under the main production system conditions found in Mexico. Each year from 2003 to 2010, an average of 15,445 shrimp obtained from 130 females and 93 males were evaluated for body weight at harvest. These evaluations were performed in 2–4 ponds where commercial- like production conditions are reproduced. Starting in 2009, survival from 65 to 130 days of age also has been genetically evaluated. Mating design is based on the use of shrimp from the selected families with the higher selection index values. Hence, broodstock animals come on average, from the upper 27% families in the case of males, and from the upper 53% families in the case of females. In addition to these selection procedures, with» 45

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in-family selection is performed at various growing stages based on approximations to the individual body weight. This is carried out in the genetic nucleus, under strict biosecurity conditions. Animals coming from the within-family selection procedures are the animals ultimately used as the next generation broodstock. Reproduction techniques are based on artificial insemination only, using two females per male. These procedures have been described by Castillo-JuĂĄrez et al. (2007) and by Campos-Montes et al. (2013), and some methodological implications have been discussed by Montaldo et al. (2013). Considering the time needed to evaluate animals and to obtain mature broodstock ready to use, the complete production cycle required to yield a new generation (generational interval) is 1 year.

Genetic Progress Genetic progress has been evaluated in several shrimp selection programs. Hetzel et al. (2000) estimated the selection response per generation for 6-month weight in Peneaus japonicus at 8.3%. Andriantahina et al. (2012) estimated the genetic response per generation for 5-month weight in Litopenaeus vannamei at 10.7%. The genetic response for body weight at harvesting (130 days of age) in the Maricultura del PacĂfico commercial line has been evaluated using linear models (BLUP-animal model). The estimated genetic gain as a linear trend from 2003 to 2010 represents an increment of 18.4% of the average body weight 46 Âť

for the period. For survival, the estimated genetic gain as a linear trend from 2004 to 2010 was also positive (1.56%).

Potential of Genomic Selection for Disease Resistance Diseases are major constraints for aquaculture production. As vaccination is not an option in shrimp and management contention measures are frequently unfeasible, genetic selection is considered a possible option in fighting many diseases in P. vannamei and other shrimp species. Genomic selection (GS) increases accuracy if compared to conventional selection, by taking advantage of both between and within-family variance, in situations where family testing for disease is used in sibs of the actual selection candidates, in order to avoid the introduction of the pathogen into the breeding nucleus population (Villanueva et al., 2011). We used SelAction software (Rutten et al., 2002) and methods developed by Dekkers (2007) to deterministically simulate selection response in P. vannamei using dense genetic marker arrays (chips). This was done to assess the potential effects of GS in a breeding program oriented to the improvement of disease resistance. This simulation considered the context of a typical shrimp breeding program based on (sib) family selection. We used seven heritability values: 0.01, 0.05, 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40, and 0.50 for survival under experimental infestation of shrimp produced in

breeding shrimp populations of different size, and relatively high selection intensities, if compared to those from our actual breeding program (Campos-Montes et al., 2013). This allows us to evaluate the possible genetic response for survival to different pathogens, which may include a wide range of viral as well as bacterial infections. The considered proportion of common full-sib environmental effects was 0.15 for all cases. Accuracy from GS was obtained with the formula developed by Daetwyler et al. (2010), assuming a genome size of 28 Morgans, and an effective population size of 50. This yielded a value for the number of independent chromosome segments close to 324, which may be considered conservative (Villanueva et al., 2011); therefore accuracy from GS was probably not overestimated. The proportion of the additive genetic variance explained by markers to reflect the preliminary stage of development of SNP chips in shrimp was also conservatively set at a value of 0.64 which is below the value of 0.80 used for the 50 K SNP chip for cattle (Daetwyler, 2009). All breeding populations were derived from 30 males and 38 females, with an incomplete nested structure, similar to that described by Montaldo et al. (2013), to produce 150 families to be tested. Population sizes corresponding to 6, 50, and 100 shrimp per female were 900, 7,500, and 15,000 measured offspring, respectively. Three breeding strategies were considered here for between family

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selection: (1) phenotypic information, (2) GS (based on using contemporary training and testing population of similar size to avoid an increase of generation interval), and (3) combined selection program which uses both genomic and phenotypic information. Results show that the potential of GS to develop lines with improved disease resistance is high. GS and combined selection programs had large increases in selection responses measured in phenotypic standard deviation units for survival, in populations of size 7,500 and 15,000, but less for the population of size 900. Ratio from combined and GS programs, with respect to phenotypic programs, increased with lower heritability values. These ratios for populations of size 7,500 were 2.6, 1.7, 1.6, 1.5, 1.4, and 1.4 for combined selection for heritability values of 0.01, 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40, and 0.50, respectively, and only slightly lower for GS. Analogous ratios for combined and GS relative to phenotypic selection for a population of size 15,000 were very similar. Results for combined selection for a population of size 900 showed an advantage over phenotypic selection with lower ratios (from 1.2 to 1.3), while ratios for GS were slightly below 1. These results indicate that with a training population of adequate size (probably of less than 7,500),

GS could more than double the rate of selection response for survival to specific diseases, which is higher than previous estimates for GS programs in the context of aquaculture breeding for continuous traits (Nielsen et al., 2011). Interestingly, the relative advantage was greater for smaller heritability values. This is promising for improving survival to disease challenges in aquaculture species, which often have low heritability values (Yáñez and Martínez, 2010). In this preliminary GS shrimp evaluation, we compared all the programs at the same selection intensity. This may give some unrealistic detriment to GS programs, because GS would allow selection of individual animals at higher selection intensities, when the individual identification of candidates is possible. Therefore, not all the potential advantages of GS and larger candidate populations to increase selection response were included in this study. Combined and GS responses were similar for populations of sizes 7,500 or 15,000, indicating that GS is capturing almost all the variation explained by the phenotypes, making GS more accurate. A more detailed comparison may include changes in inbreeding rates, and the optimization of the different factors affecting selection response. Advances in shrimp genomics (Yu et al., 2014; Zhang et al., 2014) may lead to the future develop-

ment of SNP chips for P. vannamei, making the possibility of performing GS in this species more viable in the near future. Within the framework of our preliminary calculations, GS for survival rates to disease challenges in shrimp may lead to large increases in selection responses across a wide range of heritability values.

Conclusion The use of the so-called “classic” or conventional methods of quantitative genetics to genetically improve the Pacific white shrimp has allowed for continuous progress of great value to increase the profitability of the shrimp industry in several countries and in other aquaculture species. Recent advances in such areas as genomics will allow, in the near future, for the development of animal breeding methods, which may increase, and hence accelerate shrimp genetic progress. In particular, these novel techniques may help increase disease resistance to specific emerging diseases, which is today a very important aspect in shrimp breeding programs. Conflict of Interest Statement The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. Acknowledgments The authors are thankful to CONACyT, Mexico, for providing funds for our breeding research in the hatchery since 2007. Special thanks to Maricultura del Pacífico workers, for their contribution to operating the breeding program.

*Correspondence: Hugo H. Montaldo, Department of Genetics and Biostatistics, School of Veterinary Medicine, University City, National Autonomous University of Mexico / montaldo@unam.mx **Edited by: José Manuel Yáñez, University of Chile, Chile. Reviewed by: Juan Steibel, Michigan State University, USA; Ross Houston, University of Edinburgh, UK. This article was submitted to Livestock Genomics, a section of the journal Frontiers in Genetics.

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Book Reviews

Book Reviews Handbook of Marine Microalgae: Biotechnology Advances. Edited by Se-Kwon Kim. Academic Press, ISBN 978-0-12-800776-1. 604 pages. This book provides a broad overview of the current state-of-the-art (and science) of microalgae culture and utilization. Starting with some of the basics required for an understanding of these algal species, there are chapters covering diversity and significance of microalgae, as well as the major classes and genera of commercial species. Subsequently, practical aspects are addressed such as isolation, culturing techniques, mass production and applications in aquafeeds. With some 38 chapters altogether, written by experts from across the globe, the bulk of the book addresses every aspect of microalgae science, from wet and dry storage to biofuel production to genetic engineering and bioremediation. Every chapter includes a wealth of valuable citations, and the book serves as an authoritative reference that will be of use to anyone working with microalgae.

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Feed and Feeding Practices in Aquaculture. Edited by D. Allen Davis. Woodhead Publishing, ISBN 978-0-08-100506-4. 432 pages. This book includes a total of 15 chapters contributed by recognized authorities from a number of countries. It is divided into three main sections: Feed and Fertilizer in Aquaculture; Feed Ingredients, Production and Processing; and Feeding Strategies and Environmental Impact. In addition to exhaustive references, many chapters also include a section on sources for further information. The introductory chapter by Dr. Claude Boyd provides a valuable, objective overview of the global impacts of feed and feeding practices, and serves to provide perspective for subsequent chapters that cover everything from feed formulation to the use of preand pro-biotics. This book would be a useful reference for anyone working in the field of aquaculture nutrition.

Mucosal Health in Aquaculture. Edited by Benjamin H. Beck and Eric Peatman. Academic Press, ISBN 978-0-12-417186-2. 408 pages. Although this topic seems, perhaps, a bit overspecialized at first glance, as pointed out on the back cover “mucosal health is of particular interest because mucosal surfaces (skin, gill, intestine, reproductive tissues) constitute the first line of defense against pathogen invasion.” This becomes abundantly clear upon examining the wealth of information presented here. There are 13 chapters, written by experts from a number of countries, mostly from Europe and the US. Topics include detailed examinations of key mucosal tissues, environmental and nutritional impacts, mucosal vaccines, and many other important aspects of immunity and aquatic animal health. This book is recommended for anyone specializing in aquatic animal health.

The Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus: History, Biology and Aquaculture. Edited by Hongsheng Yang, Jean-Francois Hamel and Annie Mercier. Academic Press, ISBN 978-0-12799953-1. 478 pages. The sea cucumber is a prized delicacy in many Asian countries, and interest in culturing this species has increased throughout the world in recent years. This book serves as an important source of information on biology, culture techniques, and also markets

and trade. There are 24 chapters in all, with a thorough coverage of anatomy, broodstock management, hatchery practices, nutrition and feeding, immunology and diseases, and utilization in various markets worldwide. Contributors include many experts from China, as well as some authorities from other countries. This book is recommended for anyone working with sea cucumber aquaculture, and also provides insight into global markets and marketing of specialty aquaculture products.

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NOAA & Canada’s

Department of Fisheries & Oceans Partner on Regulation of Aquaculture Editor’s Note: DFO and NOAA recently announced a new partnership to undertake greater cooperation in environmental management of the marine aquaculture sector and identify potential areas for further regulatory coordination. The partnership is part of a broader initiative known as the Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC), launched by President Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Harper in 2011. The following are excerpts from several pages devoted to this partnership on the DFO website.

Photo courtesy of NOAA.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC) - Regulatory Partnership Statement (RPS) he RCC’s Joint Forward Plan launched August 2014 includes a commitment by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the US Department of Commerce and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to undertake greater regulatory cooperation in environmental management of the aquaculture sector and identify potential areas for further regulatory coordination. In meeting the key elements of the RCC Joint Forward Plan, NOAA and DFO have: • Established a high-level partnership governance framework incor-

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porating both organizations’ senior officials, which is supported by a technical working group(s) to review and track progress against medium and long-term regulatory alignment opportunities. • Implemented a bi-national RCC work planning process that includes an annual review of work plans to consider stakeholder input and to update senior officials on progress

on regulatory cooperation initiatives. • Identified ongoing opportunities for stakeholder engagement to inform senior officials on new developments and to provide input on potential future regulatory alignment.

Establishing and Maintaining Annual Work Plans NOAA and DFO have established: • A technical level working group on

NOAA contributions to aquaculture highlighted, photo courtesy of NOAA.

aquaculture that is being co-chaired by the Director of the Office of Aquaculture at NOAA and the Director General of the Aquaculture Management Directorate at DFO. • This working group will explore areas of cooperation that yield mutual benefits in both the short and long-term, such as 1) regulatory environmental management objectives and outcomes, 2) farmed and wild fish interactions, and 3) regulatory development initiatives relating to offshore aquaculture. Work plans will be informed through a variety of means including: stakeholder input; regulatorto-regulator plans to modernize regulatory systems and associated requirements; internal-to-government issues requiring renewal or common approaches in support of regulatory activities; and new or emerging

shared challenges. As such, these work plans will be “evergreen,” and could be revised as needed throughout the year, reflecting common challenges or emerging priorities. In this respect, stakeholders may provide input to regulators throughout the year.

Opportunities and Expectations for Stakeholders Stakeholders will be provided information in advance of work-planning sessions. They will be invited to provide input to work plan development and to take part in the annual senior committee meeting.

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Stakeholders will be asked to provide information pertaining to: • Industry and market trends with specific reference to where they feel adjustments to regulatory systems and overall direction may be required. • New technology or innovations in the sector that would serve to initiate early agency discussion on how to approach these in the future. • Issues that are seen as near-term binational priorities and costs associated with misalignment or the opportunity to assist priority setting. In identifying issues of bi-national significance, it is expected, where possible, that stakeholders will work with their binational partners to provide joint positions and informed analysis. To this end, stakeholders are invited to provide basic data in support of their submissions and to respond to re-

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quests for clarification or supplemental information in a timely fashion.

DFO and NOAA intend to review this work plan annually at the cochairs meeting. Changes may be made, as appropriate, with the concurrence of the co-chairs of the Aquaculture Regulatory Cooperation Committee. In addition to the action items listed under each work stream, several administrative actions will be undertaken. The process includes: • Establishing working groups. - Co-chairs identify working group leads for each work stream. - Working group leads draft terms of reference, including proposed membership, for each work stream. - Co-chairs approve terms of reference for each working group. • Developing detailed work plans for each working group. - Working group leads convene initial meeting to develop a detailed work plan. - Co-chairs approve the work plan for each working group. As indicated in the Joint Forward Plan, this Technical Work Plan is not intended to create binding obligations under domestic or international law. In addition, meeting the targeted deadlines in this work plan is subject to overall support from the executive branch of government in both countries, as well as the availability of appropriations, personnel and other resources.

Regulatory Cooperation on Marine Aquaculture Building on the existing bilateral relationship and expertise in both countries, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) endeavor to undertake greater cooperation in the environmental management of the marine aquaculture sector under three specific work streams: • Comparison of regulatory environmental management objectives and outcomes of net pen aquaculture; • Cooperation on farmed to wild fish interactions, and • Cooperation on regulatory oversight Conclusion and management for offshore aqua- NOAA and DFO look forward to this collaborative undertaking and will uticulture. lize the new governance framework to implement a more formal department to department arrangement to enable deeper regulatory cooperation. As indicated in the Joint Forward Plan, this Regulatory Partnerships Statement is not intended to create binding obligations under domestic or international law. In addition, implementation of this Regulatory Partnerships Statement is subject to overall support from the executive branch of government in both countries, as well as the availability of appropriations, personnel and other resources.

ASIAN report

The Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS 2015)

to focus on nutrition and feed innovation

n its fifth successive year, The Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS 2015) will take place in Hanoi from August 19-20 2015. The two-day meeting, with the theme AQUA FEEDS 2.0: From Farm to Plate, will explore innovative approaches to optimise feeds and feeding for shrimp, freshwater and marine fish for various culture systems and phases of production. New technologies will also be emphasized, including functional feed solutions for better health management, immunity and disease resistance as well as product innovation and branding considerations to meet changing consumer demand and preferences. The aqua feed market in Asia continues to grow in close parallel with the increase in global demand for farmed fish and shrimp. Consumption of seafood is increasing with the expanding middle class population and the shift towards healthy foods, especially in developing nations. This growth in aquaculture is driving the market for the region’s aqua feed industry. The global aquafeed market is estimated at USD$122.6 billion by 2019 (Transparency Market Research). Asia’s aquafeed production was 27 million tonnes in 2014 and is expected to grow (Alltech Global Feed Survey, 2015). The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for aquafeed, accounting for more than 67% of total consump-

tion. China, Thailand, Indonesia, India and Japan are the major players. With increasing global demand for safe and sustainable products, this sector has to not only stay ahead of demand but also be able to support sustainable farming.

AQUA FEEDS 2.0: From Farm to Plate “As aquaculture moves towards an integrated supply chain, the industry faces multiple challenges. Markets demand superior feeds based on sound nutrition and sustainable practices that address environmental, social and food safety aspects,” says Dr Zuridah Merican, Conference Chair and Editor of Aquaculture Asia Pacific Magazine. “There should be more focus on science and less dependence on empirical information to design optimal feeds for each stage of the animal’s growth as well as the demands of the consumer. TARS 2015 promises a comprehensive agenda of state-of-the-sci-

ence presentations facilitated by renowned experts from Asia, Europe, Australia, and Canada. The meeting will also incorporate thought-provoking, interactive breakout sessions with industry participation that have become the hallmark of this critical series. This year, there will be four breakout groups exchanging ideas on how Asia’s aqua feed industry and shrimp, freshwater fish and marine fish sectors should move forward. TARS 2015, organized by Aqua Culture Asia Pacific and Corporate Media Services and supported by Vietnam’s Directorate of Fisheries (MARD), is expected to draw 200 participants representing the industry and key stakeholders from the region. For more information on TARS 2015, program and registration details, visit www.tarsaquaculture.com or contact Zuridah Merican, PhD, at zuridah@aquaasiapac.com

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Aquaculture Engineering

The Nitrogen Game III – anammox games By Dallas Weaver, Ph.D., P.E.

hese ammonia + nitrite feeding bacteria were given the name anammox. My own experience and discussions with others (T. Schuur, 2003) indicated that similar reactions were occurring in some aquaculture systems and throwing off mass balance calculations on O2 and nitrogen species. Meanwhile, some sewerage plants started using fluidized bed bioreactors specifically for anammox bacteria by feeding the system both ammonia and nitrite. This requires a two stage process, where you first do a secondary treatment or similar biotreatment with adequate oxygen to get carbon oxidation, with only some nitrification to nitrite using a controlled sludge. You then pass the water containing little carbon and ammonia + nitrite into a bioreactor system with the ability to operate at high SRT’s (sludge retention times) of greater than two weeks, allowing enough time for the slow growing anammox bacteria to thrive. These can be bioreactors like packed bed, fluidized bed, granulated bed or membrane type reactors (Strous et al., 1997, Water Research 31, 1955-1962) where the ammonia and nitrite is converted to nitrogen gas and water by the anammox bacteria under slightly anaerobic conditions. Relative to conventional nitrification oxidizing the ammonia all the way to nitrate, like we do in aquaculture, then using a carbon source to reduce the nitrate to nitrogen gas, the anammox process uses 66% less oxygen to convert the ammonia to nitrogen gas and doesn’t require any carbon. As adding oxygen to water in aquaculture systems is a significant fraction of the total RAS energy, the lower oxygen demand is attractive for zero exchange aquaculture; but not oxidiz56 »

As researchers continued to look at mass balances of N in natural systems, it slowly became clear that bacteria feeding on ammonia + nitrite as an energy source were busy turning CO2 into biomass (Thamdrup and Dalsgaard, 2002, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 68, 1312-1318).

Courtesy Sustainable Sanitation and Water Management.

ing and stabilizing the solid waste from an aquaculture facility will add to the solid waste disposal issue. However, in a truly minimal energy system in fresh water (no high sulfate levels), it is possible to visualize a RAS culturing fish in a high loop strength (LS – feed/biotreatment flow – mg/l) system with pH control for ammonia toxicity and oxygen/aeration for tank oxygen requirements, using microscreens or equivalent for solids removal producing a high concentration waste stream containing 10 mg/l of ammonia or more. Something like 300 mg/l of feed would have been added to the culture water so the BOD would also be high, but the flow per kg of feed is low (low

pumping energy per kg of feed). This waste stream could be treated in a variety of biofilters with fairly low SRT and high bacterial growth rates but with long enough SRT to get some nitrification to nitrite. Visualize something like a highly loaded moving bed reactor, bead filter, etc. with a biomass control system shearing extra biomass off the carriers and into a separate discharge stream. This system would be operated near zero DO, so the cost of oxygen would be minimized. With a short SRT and high biomass grow rates and high biomass yields the total amount of oxygen required per kg of feed input is minimized. By controlling the biomass, oxygen and SRT, the

ratio of ammonia to nitrite could be controlled with the discharge water at the correct ratios for anammox reactions. Using two stages in series could allow even better biomass yields in the first stage eliminating most of the BOD with very short SRT and the second stage for converting some of the ammonia to nitrite. This water with ammonia and nitrite could then go into an anaerobic reactor where the ammonia and nitrite are converted by anammox bacteria

to N2 and water. As the water from this reactor would have zero oxygen, using a fluidized bed bioreactor with a packed column for re-aeration would be a good choice. The solids from the fish culture tanks and the extra biomass from the fast growing stages of the bioreactor sub-system could both flow, with suitable concentration step, to an anaerobic digester and be used to produce methane for energy recovery. This energy recovery step eliminates a lot of the biodegradable solid waste, just like using the solid waste for denitrification accomplishes. However, this game is limited to fresh water as seawater contains too much sulfate and H2S is formed at the ORPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s necessary for methane bacteria survival. The effluent from this bio-gas production unit would be high in ammonia, phosphate and residual solids and would require some solids and phosphate removal by mechanisms such as lime addition, filtration or sedimentation. After solids and phosphate removal, the high

ammonia water could go back to the ammonia/anammox system. The above design approach could be very energy efficient, but highly complex with lots of ways to make mistakes. The overall risks of errors and complexity would be too high for all but the largest systems. It would also require a high level of automated chemistry and computer control, more like major modern waste water treatment systems. However, the oxygen and energy cost would be significantly reduced per kg of feed fed.

Dallas Weaver, PhD, started designing and building closed aquaculture systems in 1973 and worked for several engineering/consulting companies in the fields of air pollution, liquid wastes, and solid wastes until 1980. Today, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Owner/President of Scientific Hatcheries. e-mail: deweaver@mac.com

Âť 57

Nutrition

Epigenetics and Fish Nutrition – Part 1

“Research is to see what everybody else has seen, and to think what nobody else has thought,” Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

By Liu Bo and Paul B. Brown*

lbert Szent-Gyorgyi de Nagyrápolt (1893-1986) won a Nobel Prize in 1937 for his discovery of vitamin C. He was one of the more interesting scientists of the 20th century. In addition to his discovery of vitamin C, he also participated in the Hungarian resistance during World War II, and later in the war, Adolf Hitler personally signed a warrant for his arrest. He immigrated to the US from his native Hungary in 1947 and established the Institute for Muscle Research at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, MA. Szent-Gyorgyi was interested in how cells functioned and this interest led him in many directions; antioxidant vitamins, cellular energy producing cycles, muscle fiber contractions, cancer and the use of quantum mechanics in cellular biology. Nutrition has been described as an old and complex science in these

58 »

articles, suggesting similar research questions and approaches will continually be employed as we determine the nutritional needs of new and emerging aquaculture species. We use Dr. Szent-Gyorgyi’s quote to remind us that even the oldest, most stubbornly entrenched scientific disciplines, are continually moving forward and progressing. There are a lot of thinkers out there. In this article, we consider one of the areas where nutrition and genetics may merge in the future and the possible ramifications of this merger in aquacultural applications. Epigenetics refers to a pattern of gene expression within a cell or an organism, but a pattern not influenced by DNA sequence alteration. That is, not a mutation as most people would describe a mutation. Epigenetics is, however, a milder form of mutation that may be as much as “100,000 times more likely” to occur than a clas-

sic change in DNA content (Frank Johannes, University of Groningen, Netherlands). At present, epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin conformational changes. DNA methylation is the most widely investigated epigenetic mechanism and we will restrict our consideration of epigenetics here to methylated DNA. Chemically, methyl groups (CH3) are about the simplest biochemical compounds in nature and their metabolism is referred to as one carbon metabolism (1-C). When this simple 1-C molecule is attached to DNA, it blocks expression of the gene. The binding of 1-C to DNA is not haphazard, it is specific to the chemicals that makeup DNA and specific to genes. At the heart of epigenetics lies the interaction between nutrition and genetics. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of 1-C metabolism, which begins

with the essential amino acid methionine and relies on several vitamins [folic acid, B12, B6 (pyridoxine), riboflavin, and choline] as well as two other nonessential amino acids, cysteine and betaine. Research in mammals found that inadequate supplies of the essential nutrients involved in 1-C metabolism will alter DNA methylation patterns and resulting gene expression. While these

studies have not been conducted in aquaculture species, it is reasonable to assume conservation of these metabolic interactions across all vertebrates. Figure 2 is the beginning of an interactive biochemical map showing the interaction between nutrition and epigenetics. The center column depicts the information from above and follows through to the processes

we want to maximize in aquaculture (growth, reproduction, health, etc.). The two columns on the right and left depict the complex interactions that are likely to occur as a result of the basic interaction of nutrition and epigenetics. Nutrition is complex. Genetics is complex. If we combine the two, we double the fun (at the very least). What does this complex discussion have to do with aquaculture? As stated earlier, we strongly suspect this will be a primary line of research in aquaculture in the future. Currently, there are only anecdotal data indicating epigenetic regulation of gene expression in aquacultural scenarios. In Part 2 of this series, we will consider the available evidence and early experiments in this area of research.

Dr. Paul Brown is Professor of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences in the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources of Purdue University. Brown has served as Associate Editor for the Progressive Fish-Culturist and the Journal of the World Aquaculture Society, among many others. pb@purdue.edu Dr. Liu Bo, Visiting Scholar at Purdue University, is Associate Professor at the Chinese Academy of Fisheries Science, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center, Wuxi City, China.

Âť 59

aquafeed

Recent news from around the globe by Aquafeed.com

These are some of the highlights of the past few weeks at Aquafeed.com

By Suzi Dominy*

Slow feed development for emerging tropical marine fish r. Daniel Benetti is a Professor and the Director of Aquaculture at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. He caused quite a stir when comments he made at a recent USSEC meeting on the problem with aquafeeds for tropical marine fish were widely reported in the trade press. Aquafeed. com talked to Dr. Benetti, to learn what he meant. He made some interesting points: “Most ‘specialized’ feeds targeted at, and widely sold for emerging tropical marine fish species such as cobia, grouper, pompano, snapper, Seriola - to name a few - are considered ‘black boxes’ because the nutritional requirements and the

60 »

digestibility of ingredients used for formulating and manufacturing the feeds for these species are mostly unknown”, he said. “On the top of that, 90% of the ingredients used for manufacturing the feeds for these species are commodities and changed according to price and availability. It’s not uncommon to even visually note obvious differences among different batches of the ‘same’ feed manufactured to contain the same crude protein and crude fat content, for example.” Benetti noted that it is not only different species that have different nutritional requirements, most of which are still unknown, but even the same species will change their requirements at different developmental stages. The little that’s known about requirements and digestibility of ingredients for these

tropical marine fish species is based on studies of small fish, juveniles, which utilize a small portion of the overall feed in terms of tonnage and cost (80% of the total feeds is used during the growout stages), Benetti said. As a consequence, since the nutritional requirements of the fish being raised are not being met, their aquaculture performance in terms of growth, feed conversion and survival is poor. Thus, new operations raising marine fish in the region are losing money primarily because of the high costs of the feeds, high FCRs, and poor fish health, said Benetti: “With FCRs above 2 (often above 2.5) and feeds costs above USD$2 per kg, the numbers simply don’t work”. “Bottom line is the feeds companies are not investing enough resources into R&D to improve their

‘specialized’ products for new species. In fact, it’s not that the producers must develop their own feeds, but it’s the companies producing new emerging species are the ones investing resources in nutritional studies to develop better feeds.” Benetti said this was understandable, because - unlike salmon, tilapia, carp and shrimp, for example, where the market is huge and lots of resources have been invested in R&D to get to the excellent standards they’ve reached with feeds - there’s a perception that the market for feeds for new emerging species such as cobia, snapper and pompano is still relatively small. “In reality, the market in the region has already grown to about USD$20 million a year and continues to grow,” he said. “This is surprising because it’s well known that R&D pays off. Indeed, as discussed during the workshop, the one company that invested

in research to determine digestibility of ingredients for a tropical marine fish species has capitalized 10 fold on their investment in less than two years”. Benetti was referring to Biomar, an aquafeed company that’s investing resources in R&D and has its nutritionists working in collaboration with academics and the private sector to study the nutritional requirements and digestibility of ingredients of emerging species of tropical marine fish.

An Additive in Aquafeed Technology with Triple Benefits Scientists at Nofima have developed a process additive with triple benefits: it functions as a binding agent, has high nutritional value, and makes it easier to produce fish feed with good physical properties. The additive can contribute to reducing the loss of feed in the aquacul-

ture industry, and make the production of feed more energy-efficient. The process additive is a proteinbased solution that can be manufactured from marine raw materials or plant proteins. Approximately 1.5 million tonnes of feed are used for Norwegian farmed salmon every year. All of this feed is blown through long tubes into the fish cages, and it is extremely important, therefore, that the feed is manufactured to withstand the mechanical load it experiences. If this is not the case, the feed breaks up into small particles and dust, which the fish cannot eat, and the dust may also clog the feed-supply system. The loss in such feed delivery systems lies in the range 0.3-1.5%, which corresponds to an additional annual cost of between NOK 40 and 200 million. In order to reduce the loss, the feed must be homogeneous and have good physical properties.

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aquafeed

PhD student Tor Andreas Samuelsen at the Nofima Feed Technology Centre in Bergen has studied how the loss can be reduced by measures taken during feed processing. The principal goal of the project has been to divide fishmeal into its components, identify which of these influences the extruder, and determine their significance for the physical properties of the final fish feed.

Fishmeal Alternative to be launched in the UK and Norway in 2018 California, USA-based sustainable life science firm Calysta, Inc. has announced plans to launch a proven new fish feed ingredient produced by a microbial culture with natural gas as the sole nutrition and energy source. FeedKind™ Protein is expected to be introduced to the Scottish and Norwegian aquaculture sectors in 2018. FeedKind Protein is a microbial protein that provides a cost-com62 »

petitive alternative to conventional fishmeal. The protein, produced with minimal land and water use, is nonGMO and approved in the EU for all fish and livestock species. Alan Shaw, Ph.D., President and CEO, said: “FeedKind Protein can replace fishmeal and soy protein with a nutritious, naturally occurring protein, and offer consumers a new option that is sustainable and healthy. It can also contribute to the aquaculture industry’s need for sustainable products to meet increasing global demand for new sources of protein.” FeedKind Protein will be manufactured using a natural proprietary fermentation process, a production method similar to that used to produce yeast-extract sandwich spreads. Studies have confirmed FeedKind Protein’s nutritional value, based on criteria such as animal growth and health. Calysta expects to introduce FeedKind™ Aqua first for the aquaculture industry, to be followed by additional FeedKind products for the livestock market.

Calysta is reviving the production of proven methane to feed technology BioProtein – a fishmeal alternative for use in aquaculture and animal nutrition that has hit several bumps along the road to market. Calysta, a US developer of natural gas conversion technology using methane for fuel and chemicals, bought Norway based, BioProtein A/S, in May last year.

Suzi Dominy is the founding editor and publisher of aquafeed.com. She brings 25 years of experience in professional feed industry journalism and publishing. Before starting this company, she was co-publisher of the agri-food division of a major UK-based company, and editor of their major international feed magazine for 13 years. editor@aquafeed.com

Â» 63

The Long View

Reporting Our Way

to Irrelevancy

How does one measure success? Ask a lawyer and it would be the number of cases argued successfully and the importance of those cases. Ask a car salesman and it would be the number of cars sold and the relative value of those cars.

By Aaron McNevin*

ne could even ask a child who cuts lawns in the summer and it would be the number of lawns mowed and the price per lawn. How do we measure the environmental impact of an aquaculture operation? I would offer that the most common ways we gauge the environmental impact of aquaculture is by assessments, permits, management plans, “adoption” of better management practices (BMPs) and the like. However, this is not measuring. Would it be reasonable to have the car salesman be evaluated on the presence and thickness of the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the dealership? If so, could the car salesman be considered successful if the SOPs were perfectly implemented, yet the salesman sold no cars? Could an aquaculture operation cause significant environmental impacts and be considered appropriate as long as there were a book of BMPs on the shelf, legal permits obtained, and the most brilliant of environmental and social impact assessments present? The answer is yes. There is a need to return to fundamentals and first principles in the environmental management of aquaculture. The industry, as a whole, has gotten better, but there is also more competition for natural resources and it is necessary for the industry to utilize these resources in an increasingly sparing amount as with any food production system. Thus, improved 64 »

Tilapia Harvest in China.

performance is necessary, but it will always be necessary. How do we evaluate whether an aquaculture operation has improved its performance? Let’s first start with the notion of “improvement.” Stating a farm is “better” or has a “reduced”

impact, just the same as stating the farm has “improved,” carries with it inherent quantification. If a farm is “better,” what is it better than? If a farm has “reduced” impact, what has it been reduced from? If a farm has “improved,” what has it improved

Tilapia and Shrimp For Sale in Vietnam.

from? It has become commonplace in permitting, regulatory enforcement and certification to use subjective protocol to serve as proxies for impact. We have become slaves to documentation rather than results. What we do not measure we cannot quantify and if we cannot quantify, it is impossible to determine if a farm has “improved.” For example, a law may require that an aquaculture operator have a water management plan. This plan may call for a description of how water is moved around a farm, how much waste accumulates in the water, how water is treated prior to discharge, how frequently and in what volumes water is discharged, the biochemical composition of effluent and how preventative measures are in place to avoid deleterious impacts on the receiving water body. This sounds wonderful, but what is the impact of the effluents on the receiving water body? While there may be no easy mechanism for attribution of a farm’s impact on receiving water bodies, the environmental condition of the receiving water body can be determined. While assimilative capacities of dynamic water bodies are challenging to determine, we do know that if the dissolved oxygen concentration has large swings from day to night it is indicative of a eutrophied system. Regardless of how small or large a farm’s discharge is into a eutrophied system, should the system condition

itself be the indication of the health of the environment rather than the documentation at the farm level? Another common example comes from certification programs. Feed efficiency is one of the most important aspects to reduce the impacts of feed ingredient procurement and production and to minimize water quality deterioration which can lead to water pollution if water is discharged and result in disease outbreaks at the farm level. Development of a feed management plan may assist in the calculation of the efficiency of feed used, but the FCR is the result of implementing any measure related to improving feed use efficiency. Thus, it is painfully obvious that the most appropriate means of evaluating the level of feed efficiency at the farm level is quantifying and reporting the FCR. Presence of a feed management plan does not constitute an optimal FCR. The obvious question is if those most influential in developing regulatory policy, certification standards and permitting requirements have the adequate knowledge to effectively put in place the main components that quantify environmental impact. Further, the efforts to satisfy the large amount of reporting, assessment and management plan requirements detract from the ability of the producer to implement practical efforts to actually minimize impact. Could the monetary expenditure to provide this reporting

be better spent on other activities that may prove more beneficial? It is interesting to note that while the fingers are pointing in all directions to lay blame for this situation, it doesn’t really matter who or what groups have generated these burdens. It is in the best interest of the environment that results-based measures are used to evaluate environmental impacts of aquaculture operations. Furthermore, it is in the best interest of the aquaculture operators to eliminate much of the nonsensical and ineffective reporting requirements that detract from the ability of producers to innovate and develop lower-impact methods of culture. It is inappropriate, and more importantly, ineffective to continue reinventing the flat tire for every aspect of environmental management. If maintenance of receiving water quality is desired – measure the condition of the receiving water body; if reduced use of feed is desired – measure the FCR; if reduced use of wild fish is desired – measure the wild fish utilized in feed; if energy reduction is desired – measure the amount of energy used; if lower land conversion is desired – measure the production per unit area. Simplicity needs to be rediscovered for the sake of the environment and the business of producing farmed seafood. If it cannot be found, the documentation burdens currently required will cause the addition of deforestation to the list of environmental impacts of aquaculture.

Dr. Aaron McNevin directs the aquaculture program at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). He received his MS and PhD from Auburn University in Water and Aquatic Soil Chemistry. Aaron has lived and worked in Indonesia, Thailand and Madagascar and currently manages various projects throughout the developing world. He previously worked as a professor of fisheries science, and is the co-author of the book Aquaculture, Resource Use, and the Environment.

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Aquaculture Economics, Management, and Marketing

Strategic Market Planning for Aquaculture Businesses

Engle-Stone Aquatic$ LLC Seafood markets have traditionally been dynamic, given that historically much of the seafood supplied was based on what fishermen could catch from the wild. Aquaculture has resulted in a more consistent supply of quantities and types of seafood products, but the growth of aquaculture has occurred in an era of rapidly changing consumer preferences.

By Carole R. Engle*

quaculture businesses, no matter how large or small, must continuously modify market strategies to strategically position their products to continue to be profitable. This column will discuss some of the factors and trends that are changing the nature of markets in general and seafood in particular. Specifically, it will discuss effects of globalization, social media and an increasingly fragmented society, and future changes that may be driven by the millennial 66 Âť

generation. The column after this one will then present specific steps that a business should go through in developing a successful strategic marketing plan. Seafood markets historically have been local with the supply being the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s catch. However, with advances in seafood packaging technologies and reasonably priced air freight charges, seafood caught in the North Atlantic and other waters are now shipped to China to be processed into fillets for subsequent sale around the world.

The ability to ship seafood products across the globe in good condition has contributed to a rapid increase in the total value of international trade in seafood. Major seafood importing countries, like the U.S. that imports more than 90% of the seafood consumed, may experience price effects from increasing volumes of seafood that are now available. While lower prices for seafood can be beneficial for consumers, decreasing prices often pose challenges for domestic producers.

At the same time that globalization has brought countries closer together, society has become increasingly fragmented. Social media makes it easy to find and interact with others who share similar views. Thus, chat rooms, blogs, twitter accounts, and other types of social media sites can be found to share opinions on topics such as the healthiness of seafood versus red meat, the mercury content of seafood, the environmental impact of aquaculture, or any other topic that one chooses. People tend to gravitate towards groups with similar interests. This increased fragmentation creates greater marketing challenges as various segments develop and reinforce preferences within their group. No one species, product, or marketing strategy will work effectively across all segments. Finally, the millennial generation is a large group of consumers that is just beginning to exert itself in the market place. The few surveys that

have been done point to an emphasis on the overall quality of life, not just environmental quality. Local foods, safe foods, natural and organic foods, community-supported agriculture (CSA), and farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; markets, all match this sense of quality that may become a more important driver as millennials exert their influence in the coming years. Thus, developing an effective marketing strategy requires more analysis, thought, and creativity than ever because a one-size-fits-all approach will not work. However, the fragmentation of consumer preferences also means that there are more marketing opportunities emerging than ever before. The challenge is to continuously plan strategically to position the business to take advantage of these opportunities. The end marketing strategy will include which products to sell in what quantity and to whom they will be sold (processor, livehauler) (Fig. 1). Different processors sell to

The end marketing strategy will include which products to sell in what quantity and to whom they will be sold (processor, livehauler)

different brokers and distributors who then sell to a variety of different supermarkets and restaurants in different cities. However, before choosing which supply chain to align with, strategic marketing first requires internal scrutiny of specific goals of the business and its owners, availability and access to capital, and clear definition of what the business can uniquely provide to customers. For example, younger farmers often feel driven to push the business to grow and expand, whereas older farmers may be content to farm on a smaller scale as long as the farm generates enough profit to support the family. Thus, a younger farmer may set a goal to expand overall production of the business while an older farmer may set a goal of taking weekends off to spend time with grandchildren. Once specific business goals are established, a careful and honest assessment must be made of the availability and access to capital for that particular business. For example, the young farmer who seeks to expand the business may not have the equity needed to convince his/her lender to approve the loan needed to build additional production or marketing facilities. A clear definition of what exactly the business will sell requires more Âť 67

Aquaculture Economics, Management, and Marketing

Clearly defining what it is about the farm’s product that provides greater benefit to the buyer than that of any other supplier is key to success.

thought than many people realize. Lack of in-depth understanding of why a customer will spend money to purchase from the company is a common reason for market failure. If the product of the farm does not provide a unique benefit, why would someone purchase from that farm and not purchase what they want elsewhere? Is the farm’s product 68 »

the freshest of all because it was harvested the day it was sold? Is it better than that from other farms because it was produced in the local community by neighbors? Should a customer buy from a particular processor because it provides the very best customer service in the industry? Clearly defining what it is about the farm’s product that provides greater benefit to the buyer than that of any other supplier is key to success. Of course, whatever claims are made about the product must be backed up by the product itself. The next economics and marketing column will present a step-bystep approach to develop a strategic marketing plan. It will follow up on the above first steps of clearly defining: 1) one’s specific business goals, and 2) the unique benefit that the farm’s product will provide to the customer.

Carole Engle holds a B.A. degree in Biology/Rural Development from Friends World College and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from Auburn University where she specialized in aquaculture economics. Dr. Engle is a past-President of the U.S. Aquaculture Society and the International Association of Aquaculture Economics and Management. She is currently a Principal in Engle-Stone Aquatic$ LLC, and can be reached at cengle8523@gmail.com

Hatchery Technology and Management

Production of Atlantic halibut

in Norway

Atlantic halibut (Hipoglossus hipoglossus L.) is a large, right sideeyed flatfish whose population distributes throughout the northern part By Cecilia C. Vargas, PhD*

of the Atlantic Ocean, along the coast of Norway, Iceland and the Faroes.

a total of approximately 1850 tons reported in 2013. The biggest producers in Norway are Marine Harvest – Sterling Halibut, Nordic Seafarm and Aga Halibut.

Photo courtesy of Marine Harvest - Sterling Halibut.

Hatchery Practices Availability of good quality larvae is still the main bottleneck in the culture of this species. Atlantic halibut is a batch spawner and reproduction occurs during the winter months. Thus, accessing gametes of high quality obtained during the peak of spawning season is crucial. Broodfish are stripped for gamete collection and then gametes are mixed allowing fertilization. Optimal temperatures for egg incubation is approximately 6°C. Eggs are incubated in darkness in cylinders for two weeks. After hatching, larvae are transferred to larger cylinders, and kept in darkness for an additional 30-40 days until they have completed absorption of their yolk-sac. The larvae are fed on enriched Artemia until around 70 days post hatching when they are weaned onto a dry feed. Start-feeding is a critical period where high mortalities are common and this is still the major bottleneck in juvenile production. At this stage, larvae go through metamorphosis where they become fry, the left eye migrates to the right eye and the fry seek the bottom of the tank. From 2g, larvae can be transferred to shallow tanks with shelfs creating more areal surface. The grow-out phase begins from this size onwards, where the fish con-

his species, despite its long production time of about 5 years, has shown itself to be profitable. This is due to its good taste and limited availability. Atlantic halibut has high market attractiveness and it is considered a gourmet species, with high prices of approximately US$15 per kg (whole fish). Indeed, farmed Atlantic halibut from the Norwegian company, Marine Harvest - Sterling halibut - has won awards as a gourmet fish in both 2007 and 2010 at the prestigious Bocuse d’Or. Attempts to culture Atlantic halibut date back to the mid-1980s, but it was not before the late 1990s that significant commercial production was achieved. Norway is the world’s largest producer of Atlantic halibut with

tinue to be reared in shallow tanks fed with commercial diets. Further growth until the fish are transferred to sea cages varies between the producers. For example, Marine Harvest – Sterling Halibut culture the halibut in land based indoor tanks until they reach 300 g, following transfer to outdoor tanks until a weight of 1.5kg. Then, halibut are reared in 24x24m steel sea cages with 30m deep net pens until fish reach the market size of 5-7 kg. Atlantic halibut is a species with sexual dimorphism in growth, where females grow larger than males. Under farming conditions, males mature around 2kg, long before market size and experiencing a deceleration in growth. On the other hand, females attain sexual maturation at a much larger size (12 kg), and reach market size before males. Therefore, the production of all-female halibut is more valuable than mixed sex culture. Norway is currently importing all-female halibut from Scotian Halibut in Canada.

Dr. Cecilia Campos Vargas recently earned her PhD at the University of Nordland, and works at Helgeland Havbruksstasjon, in Norway. She has many years of experience in production of live feeds and aquatic species like rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon, cod, and many Japanese species. cecilia@havforsk.com

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Salmonids

Salmon lice

are a real threat to aquaculture and wild fish populations Sea lice are natural parasites of salmon and sea trout. Two genera are commonly found on wild stocks and the most dominant species (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) is usually called salmon louse (www.atlanticsalmontrust.org).

By Asbjørn Bergheim*

ttached to the host, the lice use their rasping mouth to graze and remove mucus, skin and tissue. Strongly attacked host fish may lose their appetite and growth, and the stress and wounds expose fish to secondary infections. Many reported surveys clearly indicate the close connection between the local or regional fish farming activity and episodic sea lice infestations in wild fish populations. Before farming of salmon or in coastal zones with few cage farms so-called sea lice epizootics rarely happened. According to The Atlantic Salmon Trust, studies in Norway 15 – 20 years ago concluded that the lice egg production in farming areas increased by more than 50 times compared to prefarming conditions. Such heavy lice infestations of wild sea trout, arctic char and salmon are reported from Scotland, Ireland and Norway, and of wild juvenile pink and chum salmon in British Columbia (BC). In BC, less than 5% of juvenile salmon not exposed to fish farms were suffering from sea lice, while 30 – 40% of the salmon near farms had sea lice (www. fis.com). At present, the salmon biomass in Norwegian cage farms is several 70 »

hundred times the wild stock ascending the rivers along the coast. The increased number of salmon parasites along with the dramatically increased biomass of potential hosts is hardly any unexpected consequence. However, the lice infestation level is different from one year to another in the individual fish farms and the potential risk of larval dispersion to local wild salmonid stocks is fluctuating. Wild sea trout are particularly vulnerable to lice infestation due to the species’ typical migration pattern in the sea close to the river mouth. In some Norwegian fjord systems influenced by cage farming, as much as 50 – 100 lice have been detected per individual and some local stocks of sea trout are actually at risk of elimination. On the contrary, several sea trout strains in rivers and brooks along the coast with little or no fish farms, e.g. on the SE coastline towards the Swedish boarder, seem to recover and even flourish. Sea lice attack has become a heavy burden and challenge to many cage farmers. Last year, 84% of all Norwegian cage sites performed salmon lice treatment (2013: 69% of all farms), www.kyst.no. Based on collected data from The Norwegian Veterinary Institute, the 679 lice affected farms

Fig. 1 Sea Lice infestation.

performed on average five treatments each during 2014. Usage of hydrogen peroxide has exploded over the last year, not least due to the increasing resistance in sea lice against chemotherapeutic drugs, such as chitin inhibitors and pyrethroids, as a result of many years’ repeated usage. In Scotland, the maximum allowed number of adult female lice in winter – spring without implemented treatment is 0.5 per fish. Norwegian authorities made similar demands before 2010, but because of the severely increased infestations, this limit was tightened in spring to 0.1 lice per fish. The Sea Lice Research Center in Bergen estimates that sea lice cause some EUR 300 million per year in damage to the industry worldwide,

primarily to Atlantic salmon producers (www.seafoodsource.com). The major damage and lost income to the fish farmers are attended with reduced fish growth, higher mortality and treatment costs. During delousing, the number of lost fish is occasionally high. The other lice genera (Caligus) has become a major parasite of concern in salmon farms in southern Chile (www.oceanbites.org). A recent official surveillance program indicated that more than 50% of the cage farms were infested with an average abundance of 11.8 lice per fish.

Fig. 3 Aquacultured “Lumpfish”.

Synthetic pyrethroids and other drugs invented to control lice and their spread in salmon cages may also be released to the surrounding sea and potentially harm non-target organisms, such as copepods, crustaceans and mussels. It has been demonstrated that the frequently used drug cypermethrin may reach concentrations of 2 ng/L close to treated cages, while the lethal level (LC50) in shrimp is 5 ng cypermethrin/L (www. oceanbites.org). Despite the massive lice infestations and subsequent chemical treatments, measured residues of drugs

in formerly treated salmon are very low or below detection levels. Usage of such chemicals does not represent any health risk to the consumers. However, there have been residues of chitin inhibitors in wild fish (e.g. saithe), molluscs and bristle worms in the vicinity of treated farms (www. nifes.no). Due to the described problems with drug usage, the industry is seeking alternative and environmentally friendly methods to fight sea lice. Many farms in the North Sea stock wrasses in salmon cages at a density of 2 – 10% (1 per 10-50 salmon) to control the incidence of lice. The Norwegian salmon industry puts out 15 – 20 million wrasses in cages every year and the cleaner fish are occasionally exposed to high mortality caused by epidemical disease outbreaks. Thus, another growing industry is the production of wrasses in hatcheries. A related species to commonly used wrasses, the “lumpfish” or lumpsucker, has become a promising candidate to bite the sea lice off the salmon. This tiny fish is adapted to lower temperature than ordinary wrasses and seems to graze lice efficiently even at 4 ºC (Project NORDLUS, www.forskning.no). However, great individual differences as regards appetite on lice are observed within the same cage: some “lumpfish” prefer fish pellets, while others demonstrate an enormous appetite, almost breaking their stomachs with sea lice. “Lumpfish” production is also developing rapidly.

Dr. AsbjØrn Bergheim is a senior researcher in the Dept. of Marine Environment at the International Research Institute of Stavanger. His fields of interest within aquaculture are primarily water quality vs. technology and management in tanks, cages and ponds, among others. asbjorn.bergheim@iris.no

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Shrimp

Specific Pathogen Free Penaeus vannamei

Breeding Program at University of Guam By Hui Gong, PhD*

G Overview

uam is an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States in the western Pacific Ocean. The University of Guam (UOG) is a U.S. accredited, regional Land-Grant institution, dedicated to service the communities of Guam, Micronesia and the neighboring regions of the Pacific and Asia. The Guam Aquaculture Development and Training Center (GADTC) is under the College of Natural and Applied Sciences of UOG. The GADTC is located on Guam’s east coast in Mangilao and on the south side of Fidian Point. The facility is five acres in size, fully fenced on three sides and bordered by a rugged coastline on the Pacific Ocean side. GADTC facilities include: fresh and salt water wells, an automatic generator back-up system, six 200 m2 concrete ponds, four 200 m2 concrete raceways, three 50 m2 raceways and a 50 m2 concrete pond, numerous fiberglass tanks ranging in size from 0.5 to 20 metric tons, a phytoplankton laboratory, a larval rearing room, and a feed preparation room, in addition to offices, storage spaces, etc.

GADTC’s goals are: • To conduct applied research in aquaculture. • To be a training center for the community and provide aquaculture information for the public. • To serve the needs of stakeholders via technology transfer and extension service. 72 »

The Guam Aquaculture Development and Training Center made a strategic decision in 2007 to develop Specific-Pathogen-Free (SPF), genetically-improved shrimp. • To produce high quality fish fry and shrimp postlarvae for the region. Due to the rapid expansion of the marine shrimp farming industry in Southeast Asian countries in the past two decades and Guam’s favorable location toward this region, GADTC made a strategic decision in 2007 to develop Specific-Pathogen-Free (SPF), genetically-improved shrimp to aim at the tremendous market opportunities and support the AsianPacific regional shrimp industry. Since then, GADTC has operated as a fully biosecure facility.

Health status of shrimp at UOG

SPF status of founder populations Prior to being imported to GADTC during 2007-2008, several founder populations had gone through a strict process to acquire their SPF status. The procedure for establishing SPF status is illustrated here. Implementation of biosecurity Upon receiving each founder popula-

SPF Shrimp broodstock harvested from the outdoor ponds.

tion, shrimp were held in quarantine station. After shrimp were cleared via a thorough diagnostic analysis by the Aquaculture Pathology Laboratory, University of Arizona (UAZ-APL), they were brought into the breeding center. GACTC’s location provides isolation from casual visitors and other aquaculture farms on Guam, and strict biosecurity regulations have been implemented in maintaining the SPF status of shrimp. Routine health monitoring The shrimp samples from GADTC have been submitted to UAZ-APL once to twice annually for disease diagnosis, both by PCR and histopathology. UAZ-APL is the only OIE Reference Laboratory for Penaeid Shrimp Diseases in the United States and is also an APHIS approved laboratory for export testing. All testing of the currently listed diseases (OIE 2OI2 Aquatic Animal Health Code, 15th Edition) were performed according to the OIE guidelines. Since 2003,

Google aerial view maps of GADTC.

GADTC photos: Concrete ponds (Left) and fiberglass tanks (Right).

shrimp of GADTC have been maintained free of diseases including TSV, WSSV, YHV/GAV/LOV, IHHNV, BP, MBV, IMNV and NHP. Since 2014, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, the causative agent of Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) or Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Syndrome (AHPNS), has been added to the routine health monitoring list, and is absent among the shrimp populations at GADTC. Guamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Territorial Veterinarian from the Guam Department of Agriculture is the authorized government official inspecting shrimp health status, examining the diagnostics results and issuing the health certificates for GADTC shrimp.

Shrimp breeding program and related research In the past eight years, GADTC has established a medium-scale, familybased shrimp genetic improvement program, with fast growth and high survival rates as the main breeding objectives. And the major components are illustrated graphically here. So far, seven generations of genetic selection have been completed, with the number of families per generation ranging from 33 to 75 families. In each generation, 150-200 shrimp juveniles per family were tagged with Visible Implant Fluorescent Elastomer as family identification, and a communal test was conducted for shrimp of all families. Phenotypic data included harvest weight of individual shrimp and survival rate of each family. Along with pedigree information, genetic analyses were conducted to estimate breeding values for each family and the top several families

were identified and best individuals of these families were selected to produce the next generation. Mating designs were optimized to achieve maximum genetic gains for production yield (Growth x SR%) while keeping the accumulation of inbreeding at a minimum. To date, an average genetic gain of about 10% per generation for shrimp production performance has actually been achieved. At this time, UOG has provided these genetically-improved shrimp broodstock, or candidate juveniles, to five different countries. Genetic diversity assessment Since the founder populations originated from different geographic regions and their genetic backgrounds were unknown, we conducted research to develop a panel of 12 microsatellite loci suitable for UOG shrimp stocks, and applied the markers in evaluating the genetic diversity and assessing the accuracy of parentage assignment in the breeding program. The genetic analysis showed large genetic variability among the founder populations, and variation of microsatellite loci was found to be greater than that reported in the previous studies for the same species. Using the microsatellite markers, genetic variation was evaluated for two consecutive generations. Relatively high genetic variations were found among the families, where Na, Ne and PIC were 10.625, 6.358 and 0.774 for the parents and 10.052, 6.130 and 0.766, respectively, for the offspring. Slight reductions were observed in Ho (0.891 to 0.813) and He (0.804 to 0.792), but such reductions were

non-significant between the two consecutive generations, indicating the inbreeding had been effectively controlled in this breeding program. The microsatellite panel developed also proves to be an effective and accurate tool in parentage assignment for the shrimp breeding program. A panel of 9 markers could predict with 99% accuracy when genotyping error was set at the 1% level, while 12 markers could yield 100% accuracy in parentage assignment. Other shrimp research By utilizing the platform of shrimp selective breeding, other shrimp-related research projects were conducted in GADTC, such as development of semi-moist maturation diets using locally available tuna fish roe as a major ingredient and a study of genetic and dietary nutrition interaction, especially the responses of different families of shrimp fed with different dietary protein sources and protein levels under intensive culture systems. The findings revealed a promising potential of genetic selection for shrimp strains which could utilize nutrients more efficiently for aquaculture in the future.

Summary The shrimp breeding program at the UOGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GADTC has made considerable genetic gains for production performance during the past eight years and shrimp have maintained the SPF status, being free from TSV, WSSV, YHV/GAV/LOV, IHHNV, BP, MBV, IMNV, NHP, as well as AHPNS.

Hui Gong, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the College of Natural and Applied Sciences at the University of Guam. Her expertise in shrimp aquaculture has built on 17 years of experience in applied research in both academic and industrial backgrounds. hgong@uguam.uog.edu

Âť 73

THE FISHMONGER

Essential ingredient to a successful world

– SEAFOOD!

Last year I went to a United Nations FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI) meeting in Bergen, Norway which was totally focused on fish trade. It made me think how important the seafood industry is yet how little it actually is involved in its destiny.

By Roy Palmer*

ust viewing the opening paragraph of the agenda communicated the seafood sector’s contribution to local and regional food security through direct human consumption being well recognized as is its role in providing nutritional benefits essential to human health and development. The documents highlighted that less attention had traditionally been given to the important role that fish trade plays as a driver of economic activity, in generating employment and as a source of foreign exchange. In this respect, the globalization of the sector, the growth of modern aquaculture and the development of sophisticated global supply chains have created more awareness of the sector and contributed to a new understanding of the crucial function that trade plays in allowing access to product and in creating value. FAO recognizes trade’s fundamental role by aiming to foster international trade in food commodities, including fish. Seafood has been the number one traded food for a long time, coffee is well behind seafood in second place. (Figure 1). Quoting from the paperwork “fish and fishery products are widely traded with close to 40 percent en74 »

Grilled Prawns Jeju style.

tering international markets, a much higher share than for any other food commodities. Access to international markets plays a fundamental role for producers and exporters, not the least for developing countries, which represent 50 percent in value of all exports. International trade includes regional trade, which in many parts of the world is constrained by a number of obstacles and barriers, often of a regulatory nature. In these regions, regional trade remains far below its

potential.” (Figure 2). International value-chains for fish and fishery products act as conduits for physical product but also as transmission vehicles for price and cost changes, for evolving consumer needs and values, and for new equilibrium in supply and demand. Therefore, it should not come as a surprise that international markets have a strong impact on domestic and regional markets, including for non-traded products.

The role FAO has played in relation to international fish trade is extensive and I noted that Ãrni M. Mathiesen, assistant director-general of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, said it was ‘the foremost decision making program for fisheries and aquaculture.’ So where on earth was the industry? I could count industry people on one hand out of an audience of some 300/350 people. If all of the above is true then why are we consistently seeing in countries such as the U.S. and Mexico seafood

consumption falling? Why are areas like Europe, the U.S. and Australia reliant on imports for their seafood consumption with them putting their food security issues into being reliant on developing countries? At least all of those countries were represented except for Australia, which had no representation. In Australia most of the primary industry are paying 100 per cent of cost recovery for all fisheries management. The Australian Government continues the myth of ‘what wonderful fishery managers’ they are but they

fail to connect to the importance of the industry and fail dismally in communicating and working with their industry. What is that all about? Norway has a different approach to many countries. The Norwegian Minister of Fisheries, Elisabeth Aspaker, opened the meeting outlining the importance of seafood to Norway and highlighting that it was Norway’s second most important industry and is considered an important area as Norway tries to transition and become less reliant on gas/oil areas of the economy. Their government made a commitment to many years of applied research & development in the seafood industry and created a new ministry. The Norwegian government is a major supporter of not only exporting seafood but also their technology and education/knowledge platforms and are keen to assist the world in the goals of sustainable advancements in fisheries and aquaculture. My observations at the meeting were that fisheries and aquaculture issues are regularly put in the same box which is a tragedy and I feel this holds back aquaculture in many so called developed countries. When these government delegates return to their homes do they actually communicate/share these issues to their industries? Does most of the global industry even know that these meetings take place and that they are represented by their governments at such events? Too many people in our industry cannot see the forest for the trees… how sad is that – it’s an indictment on both the governments and the industry. I am personally overjoyed that human nutrition is playing a greater role in decision making when it comes to fisheries and aquaculture and I will continue to deliver information about that. Happy Fishmongering!!! THE FISHMONGER

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Upcoming

events

AUGUST 2015 International Conference on Aquaculture, Fisheries and Hidrobiology (ICAFH) Jul. 31 - Aug. 1 Jakarta, Indonesia. T: +603-55486116 F: +603-55480616 E: infoipnindon@gmail.com ICCB ECCB Aug. 2 - Aug. 6 Montpellier, France. T: 1-202-234-4133 F: 1-703-995-4633 E: info@conbio.org

Food Processing & Technology Aug. 10 - Aug. 12 Crowne Plaza London Heathrow, London. United Kingdom. E: foodtechnology@annualcongress.com E: foodtechnology@omicsgroup.com Aqua Nor 2015 Aug. 18 - Aug. 21 Exhibition Centre Trondheim Spektrum Trondheim, Norway. T: +47 73 56 86 40 F: +47 73 56 86 41 E: mailbox@nor-fishing.no

The Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS 2015) Aug. 19 - Aug. 20 JW Marriott, Hanoi, Vietnam. T: +65 6327 8825 E: conference@tarsaquaculture.com Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo Aug. 23 - Aug. 25 Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, USA. T: +1(203) 484-8054 E: msoda@urban-expo.com E: atencza@urban-expo.com Vietnam Fisheries International Exhibition (VIETFISH) Aug. 24 - Aug. 26 Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center - SECC Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. T: +84-08-62 81 04 42 F: +84-08-62 81 04 50 E: tienloc@vasep.com.vn SEPTEMBER 2015 Vitafoods Asia Sep. 2- Sep. 3 AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong. T: +44 (0)20 7017 7027 E: rachael.shattock@informa.com

Oceanology International China Sep. 2- Sep. 4 Shanghai International Exhibition Centre, (INTEX) Shanghai, China. T: +86 10 5933 9000 F: +86 10 5933 9333 E: enquiry@reedexpo.com.cn World Seafood Congress Sep. 5- Sep. 9 University Centre Grimsby. Grimsby, United Kingdom. T: +44 (0) 1472 252300 E: wsc2015@seaf Pack Expo Sep. 28- Sep. 30 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. E: expo@pmmi.org E: dolly@pmmi.org Cool Logistics Global Conference Sep. 29- Oct. 1 Crowne Plaza, Bruges, Port of Zeebrugge, Belgium. T: +44 20 8744 0244 E: alex@coollogisticsconference.com

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10º FIACUI...................................................................................63 November 4th - 6th, 2015. Guadalajara, Mexico. Information on Booths Contact in Mexico: Christian Criollos, crm@dpinternationalinc.com International Sales Steve Reynolds, marketing@dpinternationalinc.com www.fiacui.com | www.panoramaacuicola.com Aqua 2015....................................................Inside front cover October 19th - 22th, 2015 Hotel Hilton Colon. Guayaquil, Ecuador. E-mail: cjauregui@cna-ecuador.com, ncely@cna-ecuador.com www.cna-ecuador.com/aquaexpo FENACAM 2015...........................................................................49 November 16th - 19th, 2015. Fortaleza, Brazil. Tel: + 55 84 3231-9786 E-mail: fenacam@fenacam.com.br www.fenacam.com.br The 11th ShangHai International fisheries & Seafood exposition................................................................................25 August 26th - 28th, 2016. Shanghai, China. E-mail: yee.he@gehuaexpo.com www.sifse.com/en/ XIII International Symposium on Aquaculture Nutrition......................................................................................19 November 11th - 13th, 2015. Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. Contact: Dra. Martha Rivas E-mail: martha.rivas@ues.mx http://xiiisina.ues.mx

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Aquaculture Magazine.................................................................1 Design Publications International Inc. 203 S. St. Mary’s St. Ste. 160 San Antonio, TX 78205, USA Office: +210 504 3642 Office in Mexico: (+52) (33) 3632 2355 Subscriptions: iwantasubscription@dpinternationalinc.com Advertisement Sales: marketing@dpinternationalinc.com Aquafeed.com...................................................Inside BACK cover Web portal · Newsletters · Magazine · Conferences · Technical Consulting. www.aquafeed.com RAS SYSTEMS, DESIGN, EQUIPMENT SUPPORT AQUACARE......................................................................................45 T: 1 360 734 7964 www.aquacare.com SEAFOOD Suram Trading Corporation ....................................................27 2655 Le Jeune Road Suite 1006. Coral Gables, Florida 33134. Contact: Kristina Adler T: 305 448 7165 Fax: 305 445 7185 E-mail: kadler@suram.com www.suram.com SPECIALIZED LITERATURE IN AQUACULTURE “Aquaculture, Resource Use, and the Environment”..........39 By: Claude Boyd, Aaron McNevin. February 2015, Wiley-Blackwell. Buy online: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd0470959193.html