Hsue of THE CRUST! As we approach the end of the year, there is cautious optimism that shrimp demand will rise with festive season just around the corner. Historically, this period brings an uptick in consumption, which we hope will translate into higher prices and a much-needed relief for shrimp farmers and producers who have been grappling with low market prices throughout the year.
However, it’s not all good news. Recently, we received updates on the Anti-Dumping (AD) and Countervailing Duty (CVD) case, which has been a constant concern for shrimp-producing countries. While the latest tariff rates are better for some than previously feared, they remain burdensome and continue
to strain an industry that has already been suffering. These tariffs may hamper the competitiveness of shrimp producers in the global market, which is already squeezed from multiple directions.
On the global front, there’s uncertainty ahead. The shrimp market, like many industries, has been vulnerable to global disruptions in recent years. We can only hope that no further unforeseen events will arise to destabilize the fragile equilibrium that the market is striving to maintain. The industry needs stability now more than ever.
One of the biggest markets for shrimp, the United States, is currently immersed in its presidential election cycle. As candidates vie for the top position, we in the shrimp industry are anxious to see how the outcome will influence global trade policies and the economy. A change in leadership could have a profound impact on international trade agreements, tariffs, and economic regulations—factors that will directly affect the shrimp market.
Meanwhile, closer to home, Indonesia has just inaugurated its new president. As the world’s fourth-largest shrimp producer, Indonesia plays a critical role in the global shrimp market. We are all waiting to see if the new administration, along with its cabinet, will implement policies that benefit the industry, or if it will be more of the same bureaucratic hurdles. Time will tell if this leadership will bring the innovative changes needed to bolster the economy and support the growth of our shrimp sector.
As we close out the year, we are all hoping for favorable developments, both globally and domestically. This industry is resilient, but it needs fair policies, stable markets, and strong leadership to thrive in the coming year.
ARticle Promising Progress in Nursery Systems Amidst Low Adoption
Among the various advancements in shrimp farming systems in Indonesia, one promising approach stands out but rarely gets the spotlight—the nursery system. This system produces juvenile-sized shrimp seeds, yet most intensive farmers have not shown much interest in adopting it. In fact, the nursery system has been well-developed in intensive farms in Vietnam and Thailand, as well as in more extensive systems in Ecuador.
Hasanuddin Atjo, a veteran Indonesian shrimp farmer and one of the pioneers of the nursery system, shares his latest updates on the system with The Crust. Despite farmers’ reluctance to try the nursery system due to its perceived complexity, he remains optimistic about the potential of this system. This includes the ability to transport larger shrimp seeds directly to grow-out ponds, which has historically been a challenge in advancing this system.
He successfully transported juvenile shrimp weighing ½ gram using tanks equipped with oxygen. This transportation is optimal at temperatures of 23-24 degrees Celsius. This success opens up opportunities for the nursery system to be developed in areas not directly integrated with grow-out ponds. "Previously, we focused on developing it close to the grow-out ponds. But now, nursery transportation is improving, as seen in Vietnam, Thailand, and Ecuador. We've also tried it with special tanks that provide oxygen, and it's gone quite well," says Atjo.
On several occasions, Atjo has highlighted the numerous advantages of the nursery system. Among these benefits are its ability to create a controlled farming ecosystem—particularly
regarding feed and water— during the critical post-larvae period (after hatchery stage) of 10 to 30 days; to produce juvenile shrimp that are more adaptable for open grow-out ponds; and to shorten the grow-out cycle, which leads to increased productivity within a year.
Most Important Aspects
To establish an effective shrimp nursery system, it’s essential to focus on three key factors: the quality of the post-larvae (PLs), the feed, and the water. Among these, the quality of the PLs is the most critical. Atjo emphasizes that the PLs must be clean and free from diseases like EHP and others. While the nursery aims to enhance the quality of the PLs, if they are already disease carriers, achieving optimal growth becomes challenging.
“The nursery itself isn’t the issue; often, the issue lies with PLs sourced from places already infected with EHP. Even if the quality standards are lacking, we can still raise them and work on boosting their immunity. Therefore, we must prioritize the quality of the post-larvae—they need to
Hasanuddin Atjo
be clean and clear. The nursery's role is to improve its quality. If they carry diseases, they won’t grow well in the nursery,” he explains.
As a separate system that is much more controlled than the grow-out phase, feed is the next important aspect to consider. According to Atjo, shrimp feed during the nursery phase should be specialized for nursery use, rather than the standard feed used in grow-out ponds. Initially, feeding can start with or be combined with artemia, followed by high-quality manufactured feed. Atjo himself currently relies on imported feed to meet the needs of his nursery.
Based on his experience, for one million PLs, artemia should be provided during the first three days at a dosage of one can (454 grams). The feed should have a protein content of 40-50% and high water stability. The dosage for the feed should be 3-6 ppm during the first week. After that, it should be adjusted to 10-12% of the estimated biomass.
“For feeding frequency, artemia and feed are given four times a day. After that, starting on the fourth day, we
eliminate artemia and provide only manufactured feed eight times a day. It’s even better to use an auto feeder in the nursery,” said Atjo in a webinar.
A Solution to Tackle Diseases?
According to Denny Leonardo, an Indonesian young shrimp farmer, nurseries can help tackle the challenge of EHP. By stocking larger PLs, typically around 15–25 days of culture (DOC), shrimp farms can significantly cut down their exposure to EHP and AHPND during the most critical growth phase. Since the incubation period for these diseases is around 55 days, stocking larger PLs at 20 days would reduce this exposure window to just 35 days—sufficient time for most farms to reach breakeven.
Denny adds that this system provides a cost-effective way to de-risk farming operations without requiring heavy investments in infrastructure. It allows farmers to focus on production while minimizing the risk of disease outbreaks that could otherwise wipe out their investments.
“The future of shrimp farming in Indonesia will depend on how quickly we adapt to the growing threat of co-infections like EHP and AHPND. While no single solution will solve all the industry’s challenges, adopting nursery systems is a promising step toward de-risking farms and ensuring the continued viability of the industry,” says Denny.
Integrated with Grow-out Farm or a New Business
According to Atjo, a nursery system can be implemented in two ways: integrated directly with the grow-out facility or as a new business segment. He recommends that if it is integrated with the farm, it should have a large production area with a demand for at least 2–5 million PLs per cycle. Farmers can carry out nursery cultivation for about two weeks, maintaining a stocking density of around 5 larvae/liter.
“For example, if you have a 50-ton tank, you can stock about 250,000 per liter. So, if you need 5 million per cycle, you’ll need about six tanks,” Atjo adds.
For smaller-scale farms, it’s better to establish the nur-
sery as a separate business segment. According to Atjo, this segment’s ecosystem needs its own SOPs covering all aspects, including transportation and specialized personnel. “It needs proper infrastructure and well-developed SOPs, including transport. A nursery shouldn’t just be a temporary transit area using unsuitable nets,” Atjo concludes.
Photo source : doc. PMI,
Hasanuddin Atjo
Shrimp Nursery Pond
MFishschool Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP)
any aquaculture farms often neglect to measure Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), overlooking its crucial role in maintaining optimal water quality and ensuring the health of aquatic organisms. ORP is a measure of the ability of a solution to either gain or lose electrons, reflecting its overall oxidizing or reducing capacity. It is expressed in milli volts (mV) and provides valuable insights into the redox status of the aquatic environment.
In aquaculture systems, optimal ORP levels typically range from +200 mV to +400 mV. Maintaining ORP within this range helps ensure effective oxidation processes and supports the health of aquatic organisms. Values below +200 mV may indicate potential issues, such as low dissolved oxygen or excessive organic matter.
ORP serves as a key parameter for assessing water quality in aquaculture systems. High ORP values typically indicate good water quality, with sufficient levels of dissolved oxygen and effective oxidation processes, while low ORP values may blems, such as low oxygen levels or excessive or-
ORP affects various biological processes, including nitrification, which is vital for the conversion of toxic ammonia to less harmful nitrate. Maintaining appropriate ORP
Importance of ORP in Aquaculture
levels supports the growth and activity of beneficial microorganisms that contribute to a healthy aquaculture environment.
Disease Management: A high ORP level is often associated with reduced pathogen levels, as many harmful bacteria thrive in low-oxygen or in unhealthy ponds. Maintaining optimal ORP levels can help enhance biosecurity and reduce disease outbreaks in shrimp.
Methods to Manage and Optimize ORP
Regular Monitoring: Consistent monitoring of ORP levels is crucial for maintaining optimal conditions in aquaculture systems. Use reliable ORP meters to assess redox status regularly and take corrective actions as needed.
Aeration: Increasing dissolved oxygen levels through effective aeration is one of the most effective ways to raise ORP. Ensure that your aeration system is functioning properly to maintain adequate oxygen levels.
Organic Matter Management: Reduce organic loading by optimizing feeding practices, removing uneaten feed, and implementing regular cleaning and maintenance routines to limit the accumulation of organic waste.
Use of Oxidizing Agents: In some cases, adding oxidizing agents can help improve ORP levels. However, these should be used with caution and under expert guidance because when done wrong, oxidizing agents will have negative effects on aquatic life.
Promote Beneficial Microbial Activity: Encouraging a healthy population of nitrifying and other beneficial bacteria can enhance oxidation processes, helping to maintain higher ORP levels.
Even though ORP only provides a general indication of water health, it serves as an essential alarm for potential issues. When you notice low ORP levels, it’s a prompt to investigate and address underlying problems affecting your pond conditions. By consistently monitoring and implementing effective management strategies, farmers can create a stable environment that fosters shrimp growth and reduces the risk of disease, ultimately enhancing the sustainability and productivity of their operations.
STP Launches Innovative Shrimp Feed to Tackle Farming Challenges
Innovation in the shrimp industry continues to evolve, with one key area being shrimp feed. PT. Suri Tani Pemuka (STP), a major player in this sector, consistently works to provide solutions that help shrimp farmers tackle the increasingly complex challenges of aquaculture. On September 19, 2024, STP launched its latest product, SGH MAX, which aims to address the ongoing concerns shrimp farmers face. The launch event in Surabaya drew attendees from aquaculture associations and STP’s customers from across Indonesia. The event also featured a seminar titled “The New Era of Shrimp Farming and Disease Management,” adding valuable insights to the occasion.
In his speech, Ardi Budiono, President Director of STP, highlighted that as a company with 37 years of experience in aquaculture, STP is committed to continuous innovation through extensive research to tackle the challenges faced by the industry in Indonesia. “Through our
JAPFA Aquaculture Research Station (JARS) R&D facility, we provide solutions to help farmers optimize shrimp farming productivity, with a strong focus on shrimp health and environmental sustainability,” he added.
Amid the current challenges in shrimp farming, he noted that farmers face various issues such as disease outbreaks, fluctuations in water quality, temperature changes, and pond conditions that can hinder shrimp growth. The development of SGH MAX is claimed to offer optimal performance in cultivation. Ardi also mentioned that STP is continuously conducting research to find the best feed formulation for shrimp.
“Other advantages of SGH MAX include speeding up shrimp development, boost-
ing productivity, enhancing disease resistance, as well as improving feed intake control and stress management. With this innovation, we hope the product becomes a new solution for shrimp farmers, helping them achieve optimal productivity,” he said.
Addressing Disease Challenges
Erwin Suwendi, Head of Nutrition and Technology at PT. STP, shared insights on the decline in shrimp production in Indonesia, attributing it to several factors, with disease being a major one. “So, we know that shrimp farming in Indonesia takes place in an open environment and exposed to external elements. This environmental stress can lead to the spread of disease, weakening the shrimp and, in many cases, causing death,” he explained.
In response to these challenges, Erwin seized the opportunity to develop a feed designed to address existing issues, particularly by enhancing the shrimp’s immune response to diseases. The goal is to boost shrimp resistance, allowing them to grow optimally and ultimately increase farmers’ profits. “In shrimp farming, we often focus solely
on the environment, but that’s not enough. The shrimp need to be strong, so we can make a difference through their feed,” he explained.
Erwin highlighted four key advantages of SGH MAX. First, it boosts the shrimp’s immune system. Second, it enhances the antioxidant capacity of micronutrient additives, promoting overall shrimp health, even in high stocking densities where environmental stress can be significant. Third, it improves performance, directly impacting shrimp productivity. Lastly, it increases the feed’s palatability, ensuring that shrimp eat it quickly and reducing feed waste that can pollute the ponds.
When developing a feed, it’s crucial to consider how shrimp will react to it. Erwin noted that it’s generally easier to create feed for fish than for shrimp. Fish instinctively chase after food and eat it right away. In contrast, shrimp have a different feeding behavior; they gnaw at their feed.
Shrimp can filter food from their environment, easily recognizing natural sources like phytoplankton and zooplankton. They also consume organic material found at the bottom of the pond. To ensure the reliability of the product, the
developed feed has undergone a series of tests, progressing from laboratory-scale trials to clear water systems.
Made with Intensive Research
Erwin acknowledged that developing shrimp feed is a challenging task. The development process for SGH MAX took between 2 to 5 years. During this time, extensive trial and error were conducted to determine the optimal dosage for shrimp. Erwin claims that this feed has been successfully tested in real-field conditions.
Japfa’s aquaculture research and development facility, JARS, features small outdoor ponds designed to simulate actual field conditions. Initially, the feed is tested in a clear water system tank to assess its impact on shrimp performance without any natural feed. The tank is also equipped with a device to collect the shrimp for analysis.
After testing the feed in an indoor tank, it is then tested outdoors in small ponds known as green water systems. These pond conditions are designed to closely resemble typical pond environments. The results from this stage are compared, and the feed is further refined based on the findings.
In the green water system, shrimp receive additional food from their environment, in addition to the feed provided. Once the feed is deemed successful at this stage, it is tested in actual commercial ponds.
STP has several ponds dedicated to research, allowing for more accurate assessments of performance, productivity, and feed quality parameters.
As part of the SGH MAX launch activities, a seminar titled “The New Era of Shrimp Farming and Disease Management” was held, featuring two-panel discussions with experts in aquaculture and environmental sustainability.
“This seminar provides a great opportunity to discuss various challenges and solutions in shrimp farming. We hope to facilitate valuable discussions and offer new insights to the participants,” concluded Ardi.
THE CRUST - ZA, AB
Erwin Suwendi
Budiono
Wet Market
On October 22, 2024, the ITC issued an update regarding antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) tariffs. Below is a comparison table of the preliminary and final AD and CVD rates for frozen warmwater shrimp from Ecuador, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam:
Final Update on ITC’s AD and CVD Tariff Determinations
Effects of Tariff Rate Changes
Ecuador and Indonesia: The notable reduction in AD rates for certain producers in these countries may boost their competitiveness in the U.S. market. With lower tariffs, shrimp exporters in Ecuador and Indonesia could potentially increase their market share by offering more competitive pricing, helping to alleviate some of the financial strains caused by the tariffs (Scalia-Bruce, 2024). For Ecuador, which supplies a significant portion of shrimp imports to China and the U.S., this reduction can also help stabilize its position in an increasingly volatile market (Smith, 2024).
India: The slight increase in India’s rates from preliminary to final CVD determinations may have the opposite effect. Higher tariffs could reduce profitability for Indian shrimp
Trang
exporters, forcing them to either absorb these costs or pass them on to consumers, which could diminish their presence in key regions (Trade Policy Review, 2024). This pressure could drive some exporters to cut production or exit the market, potentially leading to job losses and a reduced shrimp supply (Shrimp Industry Association, 2024).
Vietnam: The significant increase in CVD rates for Thong Thuan Company Limited, resulting from adverse findings, highlights a critical concern. Such increases can severely impact the company’s operational viability and competitive positioning. The cumulative effect of high tariffs may push companies to cut costs unsustainably, risking product quality and ultimately harming their reputations (National Fisheries Institute, 2024).
Overall Market Dynamics
The implementation of AD and CVD tariffs has created a challenging environment for shrimp exporters. As mentioned, the tariffs are designed to protect local shrimp producers in regions like the U.S. However, they also impose financial strain on exporters who face increasing costs related to production, labor, and compliance with regulations (Economic Research Service, 2024). The potential for some smaller producers to exit the market due to these pressures could lead to decreased competition, impacting pricing and availability for consumers.
THE CRUST - MIDA
Too Little, Too Late: Point of Care Testing After Clinical Signs of Disease in Shrimp
When it comes to disease management, timing is everything. Shrimp pathogens begin their destructive work long before any visible signs of illness appear. Without regular surveillance testing, it’s impossible to see it coming. By the time you do, the damage is done, with alarm bells ringing too late. This is the harsh reality many shrimp farmers face when relying on Point of Care (PoC) testing to catch deadly diseases before they devastate entire farms.
During the incubation period, pathogens multiply and shed into the environment, increasing the likelihood of transmission to other shrimp within the farm. By the time clinical symptoms are evident, the pathogen has often spread widely, complicating control measures and increasing the potential for significant losses.
This is why detection is paramount. Identifying a pathogen at its earliest stages — before it has had the chance to proliferate — can make the difference between a contained incident and a full-scale outbreak. In high-density shrimp farms, the impact of delayed disease detection is exponentially amplified, as the close proximity of the shrimp accelerates the spread of pathogens, turning a localized infection into a rapid and widespread outbreak.
The Limitations of Point of Care Testing
Point of Care tests have become widely adopted in the shrimp farming industry due to their ease of use and the rapid results they offer. These tests are often used in the field to provide quick answers when there are concerns about disease. However, while PoC tests are useful in certain contexts, their limitations must be understood, particularly when it comes to early detection and surveillance.
One of the primary issues with Point of Care tests is their sensitivity. Many of these tests require a substantial viral load (often around 1,000 copies of the virus) to return a positive result. In the context of disease management, this is a significant drawback. By the time a shrimp’s viral load reaches this threshold, the pathogen may have already spread throughout the population, making early intervention far less effective.
A 2023 CSIRO study, which examined the efficacy of several PoC tests, revealed troubling findings. According to the study, these tests are not sufficiently sensitive to detect low levels of pathogens, meaning they are unsuitable for early detection purposes. The study also highlights the gap between the manufacturer claims about test kit sensitivity, as shown on the packaging, and what is achievable with real-world shrimp samples.
“The lack of sensitivity of these PoC testing systems is such that it actually creates a false sense of security for farmers… The CSIRO study’s findings identify vital issues with the evaluated PoC testing kits, which means that they are not, in fact, a solution for early warning and prevention of many common shrimp pathogens. Based on comparative laboratory data this includes WSSV and IMNV as two examples,” states Dr. Melony
Sellars, CEO of Genics and a leading expert in shrimp disease management.
Fit for Purpose PCR Tests
So, if Point of Care tests aren’t effective for early pathogen detection, what are the alternatives?
Different PCR tests are designed for specific purposes, and it is essential to use them appropriately to avoid false negatives or other inaccurate results. For example, PCR tests designed specifically to confirm clinical diseases are not necessarily suitable for early detection. Tests intended for early detection and surveillance are optimized to identify pathogens at very low levels, well before clinical signs appear.
In shrimp farming, the most sensitive PCR tests, such as those endorsed by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), can detect as few as ten copies of a pathogen. Genics’ Shrimp MultiPath2.0, a PCR-based assay, goes even further, requiring, on average, only two copies of a pathogen for detection. This level of sensitivity is crucial for early identification of pathogens and the prevention of disease outbreaks.
“Highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tests are necessary to confirm the freedom of pathogens in apparently healthy shrimp and give farmers peace of mind,” says Dr Sellars. “This cannot be achieved with many Point of Care or on-farm tests currently on the market, as they are not sensitive enough when used on shrimp tissue, which
contains various PCR inhibitors, such as chitin. The reason our industry has struggled to achieve early detection and risk mitigation is that, prior to MultiPath, there were no tools available that could offer this level of accuracy and sensitivity at scale and cost-effectively.”
If Not Point of Care Tests, Then What?
Farmers understandably want quick answers when their livestock’s health is on the line. However, the convenience of PoC tests comes at a price — their limited sensitivity and inability to detect multi-factorial infection
Shrimp MultiPath2.0 represents a significant advancement in shrimp disease diagnostics (pathogen surveillance). This technology allows for the simultaneous detection of 18 different shrimp pathogens in a single sample, providing a comprehensive overview of the health status of a shrimp population. The test’s high sensitivity ensures that even the earliest stages of infection can be detected, enabling prompt and effective intervention. Think of this technology as your smoke alarm or sprinkler system investment, prior to a fire in your kitchen – ensuring everyone stays safe.
One of the key advantages of Shrimp MultiPath2.0 is its ability to differentiate between genetic subvariants of major pathogens. This capability is critical in managing multi-factorial pathogen scenarios, where shrimp may be co-infected with multiple pathogens. Such scenarios
are tricky to diagnose, even trickier to manage, and unfortunately very common in shrimp farming.
Therefore, Shrimp MultiPath2.0 allows farmers to implement targeted and informed disease management strategies. This high level of quality control is essential for making informed decisions about the health and management of shrimp populations, and ultimately for the success of the farm.
Moving Forward: A Shift in Disease Management Practices
The findings of the CSIRO study and the demonstrated capabilities of Shrimp MultiPath2.0 highlight the need for a reassessment of disease detection practices in the shrimp farming industry. Shrimp farmers must prioritise the use of highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tools that can detect pathogens at the earliest stages of infection. This shift is not merely a matter of improving disease management; it is a necessary step to safeguard the sustainability and profitability of our shrimp farming industry.
The stakes are too high to rely on inadequate testing methods. Early detection is essential to prevent the spread of disease, and this can only be achieved through the use of advanced diagnostic tools like MultiPath. As the industry moves forward, it is imperative that farmers adopt these tools to ensure the health and success of their farms. The lesson is clear: when it comes to disease detection, sooner is always better.
THE CRUST - GENICS
L. vannamei
L. vannamei Testing
Beyond ExploringTempura:Different Types of Shrimp Battered Dishes
Panko-Crusted Shrimp
Panko, or Japanese breadcrumbs, is another common way to fry shrimp. This method uses a coarse, flaky breadcrumb to create a crunchier, more textured exterior. Shrimp katsu, for instance, uses panko breadcrumbs and is often served with tonkatsu sauce. While panko crust is also light, its texture and preparation differ significantly from the delicate
Battered and fried shrimp is a global favorite, with many different cultures crea- ting their own versions of this delicious dish. While Japanese tempura is per- haps the most well-known, there are a variety of ways to batter and fry shrimp, each delivering a unique taste and texture. In this article, we’ll dive into several popular styles of shrimp battered dishes, exploring the differences in flavor, batter, and technique.
Tempura
Let’s start with the iconic shrimp tempura. Originating in Japan, tempura is known for its light, airy texture and crispy bite. The batter is typically made from ice-cold water, flour, and sometimes egg yolk, mixed lightly to keep it airy. Shrimp tempura is fried quickly at a high temperature, resulting in a delicate coating that allows the flavor of the shrimp to shine through without being weighed down by the batter.
Western-Style Batter
Many Western-style fried shrimp dishes use a thick, beer-based batter. These batters, often found in fish and chips, are heavier and denser than tempura batter. The shrimp ends up more encased in a crunchy shell rather than lightly dusted with a crisp
Karaage Shrimp
While often associated with fried chicken, karaage can also be applied to shrimp. Unlike tempura’s light coating, karaage uses a marinade— typically soy sauce, ginger, and garlic—before the shrimp is coated in potato starch or flour and then fried. The result is a richer, more flavorful coating that’s quite different from the subtle crispiness of tempura.
Southern U.S. Shrimp Fry
The Southern U.S. shrimp fry uses a cornmeal or flourbased batter that gives shrimp a hearty, crunchy coating. This method, often seasoned with spices like paprika or cayenne, produces a more robust flavor than the subtlety of tempura.
Photo source : doc. irham
setyaki, markus winkler
THE CRUST - RIZKY
Rizky
Darmawan
Vidi Fishy
Gemilang Lim
My secret to joy in life is in finding balance. Balance in family, sweating, and making decisions.
