New Delhi, India – February 24, 2025
The Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnology program, implemented by the Department of Biotechnology, is at the forefront of enhancing aquaculture production and productivity while harnessing marine resources for valuable products and processes. This program plays a vital role in the agricultural economy by ensuring food production for nutritional security. The Department has undertaken various initiatives to benefit the aquatic and marine sectors, including the development of novel cell lines, improvement of aqua feed, creation of advanced diagnostics and therapeutics, research on fish genomics and transcriptomics, management of fish and shellfish diseases, exploration of marine ornamental resources, and engagement in bio-prospecting activities.
Shrimp Diet Research: A Breakthrough in Aquaculture Nutrition
One of the key areas of research in aquaculture nutrition is the replacement of fish meal, an expensive and unsustainable ingredient in shrimp feeds. Scientists at the ICAR-Central Institute of Brackish water Aquaculture in Chennai have made significant progress in this area. Their studies have shown that yeast fermentation of soybean meal significantly improves the inclusion level in shrimp diets, increasing nutrient digestibility and growth. The growth trial results indicated that soybean meal can be included up to 35% in the grow-out feed of P. vannamei, with fermentation improving growth by approximately 8.5%. This innovation not only reduces the reliance on fish meal but also enhances the sustainability and efficiency of shrimp farming.
CIFA-Brood-Vac: A Novel Vaccine for Fish Spawn
Another groundbreaking initiative is the development of CIFA-Brood-Vac, a novel vaccine designed to prevent mortality in fish spawn. This vaccine ensures healthy aquaculture stock by protecting fish spawn from diseases, thereby securing the future of aquaculture. The vaccine has been tested and proven effective in various trials, contributing to the overall health and productivity of fish populations.
Interactive Fish Feed Designer (IFFD) Software
In addition to these innovations, the development of the Interactive Fish Feed Designer (IFFD) version 2 software represents a significant leap forward in the formulation of cost-effective fish feed. This user-friendly software allows for the creation of fish feed using non-conventional ingredients, making it more sustainable and economically viable. The software is designed to help aquaculture farmers and feed manufacturers optimize their feed formulations, ensuring better growth and health of fish while reducing costs.
Other Key Achievements and Initiatives
- Whole Virus Vaccines: Efforts to develop whole virus vaccines against cyprinid herpesvirus-2 (CyHV-2) and tilapia lake virus (TiLV) have shown promising results. These viruses are responsible for significant mortality in goldfish and tilapia, respectively. The vaccines, developed using susceptible fish cell lines, have shown efficiency in imparting protection against these viruses.
- Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from Fish Waste: Scientists at CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, have developed a novel, sustainable, and eco-friendly method for isolating GAGs from fish waste. These GAGs have shown potential in promoting osteogenesis and wound healing, opening new avenues for the use of fish waste in healthcare.
- Live Feed for Aquaculture: Researchers at AMET University, Chennai, have identified a new approach using monoalgal diet and selective breeding methods for high-density culture of copepod species. This method has shown improved growth and survival of fish larvae, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional live feed.
- Intelligence Forecasting for Fish Farming: Scientists at Vel Tech Rangarajan R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, have developed a hybrid intelligence mechanism for forecasting and managing fish farming conditions. This mechanism, embedded in an IoT device, allows for real-time monitoring of water quality and environmental conditions, ensuring healthy fish growth.
Conclusion
The integration of biotechnology into aquaculture and marine biotechnology is fostering sustainable food production, disease resistance, and enhanced productivity. These innovations, backed by research and commercialization efforts, are paving the way for a resilient and efficient aquaculture ecosystem. As biotechnology continues to evolve, its role in ensuring food security and environmental sustainability will only strengthen in the years to come.