ASIA - Asian aquaculture is growing very fast compared to aquaculture in the rest of the world. Despite this fast growth, the industry is still behind in regards to sustainable advancements and antibiotic reduction, explained Professor Charles Bai from Pukyong National University, South Korea, speaking to TheFishSite at Aquaculture 2016, in Las Vegas, USA.
There is a huge variety of species being farmed in Asia and due to this there has been no specific research focus on just one species.
More work therefore needs to be done in developing selective breeding alongside nutrition programmes so that the farming of individual species can be developed entirely.
In terms of disease, EMS and white spot are still threats to the growth of the industry.
Looking to the future, aquaculture will continue to grow as the demand for food rises. But, practically, many of the challenges must be met if the standard is to be improved..
As farming often takes place in remote ares, the industry would benefit from more research into locally produced feeds that are suitable for the fish farmed so that farmers can supply their own feeds.
More work also needs to be done on improving fish health, cutting down antibiotic use and also on developing better processing, packaging and marketing of products.
Consumers want a continuous supply at the right price, explained Professor Bai.