Although global aquaculture growth is forecast to slow down in 2026 after a year of exceptional increases for salmon and impressive results from many nations’ shrimp and tilapia sectors, there’s cause for cautious optimism for the year ahead.
Unprecedented improvements in black tiger shrimp genetics, combined with their ability to thrive in abandoned vannamei ponds, make them ripe for a comeback – but only if demand can be grown.
Changing pond management and feeding strategies are the best way to limit shrimp disease – with those farmers who focus on reducing stress and improving pond health the ones who are consistently succeeding, according to Robins McIntosh.
Dr Moussa Sène has established a pioneering integrated farm in Senegal, producing catfish, tilapia and a selection of livestock, while also helping train up a new generation of fish farmers.
After 12 months in which a number of the West’s flagship indoor shrimp farms have been forced to shut down, two of the more promising remaining companies explain how they have not only survived the turmoil, but also have plans to expand.