© Aivars Bērziņš
Established by the Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment (BIOR) and supported by EU funding, the TOME Centre aims to connect research and industry, providing expert guidance to help modernise fish farming practices across the region.
Since its construction was completed in late 2023, the Centre has become a focal point for aquaculture training and development. Farming operations began in May 2024, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. TOME has already attracted interest from over 100 participants representing 40 aquaculture farms across Europe, thanks to its international seminars and collaborative workshops.
The facility offers advanced technologies and expertise in farming a variety of species, including carp, burbot, and pikeperch. Its research extends to innovative areas such as European catfish breeding and saltwater Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). BIOR’s experience in rearing juvenile fish for restocking programmes, including Baltic salmon and sea trout, has further cemented TOME’s reputation as a regional leader.
"This is an important place to develop and promote cooperation between the aquaculture sector and the scientific community, delivering the best available advice for sector development and innovations," commented Aivars Bērziņš, Chairperson of the BIOR scientific board, in a statement.
Latvian companies such as Eko Ģilde, Skrunda, and Nagļi have already benefited from TOME’s resources, attending seminars on critical topics like fish health, welfare, and biosecurity. As the TOME Aquaculture Centre continues to expand its reach, it is expected to shape a more innovative and resilient aquaculture industry in Latvia and beyond.
