In recent years, India’s shrimp aquaculture landscape has witnessed a shift, with the traditional black tiger shrimp, once a flagship species, making a remarkable comeback. Despite the dominance of the vannamei shrimp in global production, the black tiger shrimp, scientifically known as Penaeus monodon, is gaining renewed attention, thanks to strategic initiatives by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA).
Historically, black tiger shrimp held a prominent position in Indian aquaculture. However, challenges such as disease outbreaks and the allure of the high-yielding vannamei shrimp led to a decline in black tiger shrimp cultivation. Recognizing the potential and responding to the demands of exporters and farmers, MPEDA has taken bold steps to revive the farming of black tiger shrimp on a large scale.
The Multi-Species Aquaculture Complex facility at the Valar Partum Island of Kochi, managed by the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture (RGCA), a research wing of MPEDA, stands as a testament to India’s commitment to revitalizing its shrimp aquaculture industry. This state-of-the-art complex boasts a 20 million capacity hatchery for black tiger shrimp post larvae, along with nurseries producing 1.65 million fingerlings of various fin fish and shellfish species, including sea bass, cobia, genetically improved farmed tilapia, and silver pompano, as well as 0.5 million crab lots of mud crab.
One of the critical challenges addressed by MPEDA is the supply of quality seeds. The shortage of good quality black tiger shrimp seeds led traditional farmers to resort to poor quality seeds, impacting farm productivity. The newly established facility carefully selects breeders to produce healthy seeds, which undergo rigorous testing for shrimp pathogens, ensuring the delivery of disease-free and robust seed stock to farmers.
The success of MPEDA’s initiative is evident in the overwhelming demand for quality seeds, surpassing the facility’s current capacity. This not only highlights the eagerness of the farming sector for reliable seed sources but also emphasizes the pivotal role MPEDA plays in supporting farmers.
MPEDA’s approach goes beyond just reviving black tiger shrimp farming; it aims to energize and diversify aquaculture in India on a large scale. The model implemented in Kerala is seen as a potential template for replication in other states, showcasing the adaptability and scalability of this initiative.
Moreover, as global attention turns towards sustainable and low-density alternatives to intensive shrimp production, black tiger shrimp emerges as a lucrative option. The species, relished in overseas markets such as the European Union, the USA, China, and Japan, offers a valuable niche market that complements the dominant vannamei shrimp.
In conclusion, MPEDA’s proactive measures and the establishment of cutting-edge facilities underscore India’s determination to regain its position as a key player in the global shrimp aquaculture industry. The revival of black tiger shrimp aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable and diversified aquaculture practices, setting the stage for a prosperous future for the country’s shrimp farmers and exporters.
editor
27 November 2023