Unleashing Aquaculture Innovation: Taiwan's Pioneering Approach to Spanish Mackerel Farming
Globe-setting Institute accomplishes groundbreaking feat in fish rearing
Taiwan's research institutions have made a groundbreaking stride in the realm of aquaculture, announcing the successful cultivation of artificially fertilized Narrow-barred Spanish mackerel for up to 600 days.
The Fisheries Research Institute shared the news, detailing that some of the fish reached weights of 7kg and lengths of 80cm. In an impressive accomplishment, the institute achieved this breakthrough in artificial fertilization of mackerel larvae in April and May of 2023, off Penghu County.
This experiment marked the world's first successful land-based larviculture of the species, as reported by the institute. The initial batch of fry were raised in land-based tanks for about 50 days, setting a world record, but unfortunately suffered high mortality due to the mackerel's aggressive nature, collisions with tank walls, and leaps from the tanks.
Researchers optimized the survival conditions, and the fish have been thriving for over 600 days. The fish samples even exhibited the development of testes and ovaries, pointing towards the potential for transporting them to land-based ponds for further breeding in captivity.
This research brings the goal of land-based, full-cycle artificial breeding for farming purposes much closer, according to the institute. The findings have been published in the renowned journal, Aquaculture International, highlighting Taiwan's progressive advancements in aquaculture technology.
The Narrow-barred Spanish mackerel is a popular delicacy in Taiwan and is esteemed as a highly valuable fishery resource. During the Lunar New Year holiday, one fish can fetch over NT$10,000. As wild catches declined in the past few years from 6,600 tonnes in 2002 to just 522 tonnes in 2023, the research aimed to provide an alternative to wild-caught mackerel. Factors contributing to the species' scarcity include changes in the maritime environment, high demand, and overfishing.
These advancements in artificial breeding could help alleviate the pressure on wild Spanish mackerel populations, ensuring their continued survival and a sustainable supply for the aquaculture industry and seafood markets in Taiwan and beyond. Furthermore, this innovative initiative would contribute to food security and economic growth by introducing a dependable source of a high-value seafood product from cultured sources, thus reducing reliance on wild-caught stocks.
- This landmark achievement in Taiwan's aquaculture industry could potentially revolutionize the health-and-wellness and food-and-drink sectors, providing a sustainable alternative to wild-caught Spanish mackerel.
- As Taiwan's Fisheries Research Institute continues to excel in environmental-science and technology, their innovative steps in the fitness-and-exercise area, such as land-based larviculture, could pave the way for improved lifestyle practices.
- By successfully cultivating Spanish mackerel for 600 days, Taiwan is demonstrating national leadership in education-and-self-development, particularly in the field of science, and spurring interest in business and finance opportunities within the aquaculture industry.
- The positive impact of this scientific endeavor extends to the environmental-science domain, as limiting wild catches reduces the risk of overfishing, contributing to a healthier marine ecosystem.
- As Taiwan consistently delivers groundbreaking advancements in diverse areas like food-and-drink, sports, technology, and business, it consolidates its reputation as a global leader in innovation, shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future.
