The Beginning of an Entrepreneurial Journey

Ripon’s journey began in the 1990s, while he was a student at Govt. B. L. College. Unlike many of his peers, who aspired to traditional careers, Ripon had a different vision. He wanted to be an employer, not an employee.

What started as a small shrimp farm in a personal space soon turned into a flourishing business. Seeing positive returns, he decided to expand commercially in 2001. By 2007, his shrimp farming area had grown to 150 bighas, and today, he manages an impressive 1,800 bighas ( approx. 240 hectare) across six farms, employing around 500 workers.

“I never wanted a job. I always believed in creating opportunities rather than seeking them,” Ripon shared, reflecting on his early aspirations.

Overcoming Challenges to Build an Empire

Success did not come easy. Like many shrimp farmers in Bangladesh, Ripon faced numerous hurdles, from disease outbreaks to political resistance and environmental challenges.

“Shrimp farming was never easy,” he admitted. “There were constant challenges—diseases, extreme weather, and even opposition from influential individuals. But I knew that perseverance and innovation were the keys to overcoming them.”

During one of the toughest phases, Ripon found himself battling resistance from political figures over water extraction rights from the river. Despite these setbacks, he pushed forward, committed to his vision of revolution in shrimp farming.

Innovation and Expansion in Shrimp Farming

Ripon attributes much of his success to advanced techniques in shrimp farming, which he adopted with support from the Department of Fisheries. These techniques not only increased productivity but also set a benchmark for other farmers in the region.

His influence is evident. Neighboring shrimp farmers, such as Alauddin Sohag, acknowledge Ripon’s role as a trailblazer. “Farmers in the coastal belt now follow the path Ripon has set,” Sohag noted.

Beyond his own farming operations, Ripon supplies high-quality shrimp fries from Cox’s Bazar to other farmers, further strengthening the industry.

Today, his businesses, Royal Fish Trading and Royal Fish Culture, generate an annual revenue of Tk 10-12 crore (approx. a million in USD). And he has no plans of stopping. With an eye on further expansion, Ripon aims to make Bangladesh’s shrimp industry more competitive in the global market.

Recognition and Industry Leadership

Ripon’s dedication and contributions have earned him numerous awards at both upazila and district levels. He currently serves as:

• President of Khulna Divisional Hatchery Traders Association
• General Secretary of Paikgacha Upazila Shrimp Farmers Association

His work has also drawn appreciation from government officials and experts.

Khulna District Fisheries Officer Dr. Farhana Taslima remarked, “For years, shrimp farmers suffered losses due to traditional farming methods, disease outbreaks, and climate change. Ripon’s cluster farming approach has provided a sustainable model that is now helping local farmers thrive.”

The Future of Bangladesh’s Shrimp Industry

Ripon’s story is not just about personal success—it’s a testament to the potential of Bangladesh’s shrimp industry. With over 5,000 shrimp farms covering 20,000 hectares in Paikgacha alone, the sector holds immense opportunities.

Senior Upazila Fisheries Officer Saikat Mallik highlighted Ripon’s contribution, stating, “His leadership in the industry has inspired a new wave of entrepreneurs, proving that with modern techniques and the right mindset, shrimp farming can be a highly profitable venture.”

As Bangladesh’s shrimp sector continues to grow, it needs visionary leaders like Ripon who are willing to embrace innovation and overcome challenges. His journey—from a college student with a dream to a pioneer in sustainable shrimp farming—is an inspiration for the next generation of agri-entrepreneurs.

What’s next for Golam Kibria Ripon? He is already working on expanding production and exploring new export opportunities. If his past success is any indication, the future of Bangladesh’s shrimp industry looks brighter than ever with adopting modern methods and innovation.

The post From dream to success: The inspiring journey of Golam Kibria Ripon in shrimp farming from Paikgacha, Khulna appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

Understanding Winter Impacts on Aquaculture Ponds

Temperature Reduction and its Consequences

Winter ushers in great reductions in water temperatures, thus affecting directly the metabolism, feeding, and growth of aquatic species. At lower temperatures, the metabolic rate of fish is retarded; this reduces their requirements for food and alters their behavior. Being aware of these changes is essential to proper pond management.

Reduced Dissolved Oxygen Levels

Cold weather changes the levels of DO in ponds, particularly for those that have been covered by ice. Low oxygen may lead to stress or mortality. In such a case, regular aeration helps to maintain a healthy environment.

Decline in Algal Growth

Winter reduces sunlight and temperatures, thereby reducing algal growth. These are the major producers in the pond ecosystem who help in maintaining oxygen balance. In the absence of sufficient number of algae, the levels of DO become low in ponds.

Accumulation of Organic Waste

The rates of decomposition of organic matter are slow during winter months. Therefore, waste keeps on accumulating in the pond and may result in the deterioration of water quality and predisposition of fish to diseases.

Winter Preparation of Aquaculture Ponds

Cleaning of the Pond

Before the winter sets in, clean the pond from the accumulation of excess organic wastes, dead plants, and debris. It would not allow the built-up toxic gases to collect in the pond water and would maintain relatively better water quality.

Aeration System Installation

Install or upgrade the aeration systems to provide adequate oxygen levels. Aerators prevent stagnation of water and minimize chances of ice formation, especially in colder regions.

Water Depth Management

Ensure proper water depth to avoid freezing. Shallower ponds are easily subjected to freezing, thus harming the aquatic species. Ensure a minimum depth of 3-4 feet for better thermal stability.

Installation of Monitoring Equipment

Installation of temperature- and oxygen-monitoring devices. Such devices would ensure that the critical parameters remain within their range and will provide early warning systems for any imminent problems.

Feeding and Nutrition

Changing Feeding Habits

• Reduce the frequency and amount of feeding during winter months since fish metabolism is slow.
• Provide high-quality and easily digestible foods that would meet nutritional requirements for cold water.

Observe Feeding Habit

Observe the feeding intensity of fish closely and avoid overfeeding as it decays the leftover feed and deteriorates the water quality.

Water Quality Management

Regular Water Testing

• Check for parameters such as pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Cold temperature changes the chemical composition of water.
• pH level should be maintained between 6.5 and 8.5 for the optimum health of fish.

Controlling Ammonia Levels

This may cause an accumulation of ammonia due to slower decomposition of waste matter. Use water conditioners or increase aeration to maintain low levels of ammonia.

Partial Water Changes

Regular partial water changes are needed to dilute any build-up of toxins. Only 10-20% change of water should be made at one time to prevent shocking the fish.

Ice Formation Control

• Keep the water surface in motion with installed aerators or fountains to prevent thick layers of ice from building up.
• For smaller ponds, use pond heaters to keep areas of importance free from ice.
  

Disease Prevention and Health Monitoring

Watch for Signs of Stress

• Cold weather can weaken the immune system of fish, making them more prone to diseases.
• Look for signs such as lethargy, unusual swimming behavior, or skin lesions.

Disease Control Measures

• Apply probiotics to maintain healthy microbial populations in the pond.
• Use natural or approved chemical treatments to address infections promptly.

Quarantine New Stock

• If at all possible, avoid adding new fish during winter. If it’s unavoidable, then quarantine them against diseases.
  

Aeration and Circulation

Continuous Aeration

• Aerators should be running during winter continuously to avoid oxygen level decline and water stratification. Diffuser aerators perform the best in maintaining an even oxygen distribution.

Avoid Over circulation

While aeration is essential, avoid over circulating water during extremely cold weather. Too much mixing can transport cold surface water to greater depths and make the habitat uninhabitable for aquatic species.

Fish Stock Management

Stock Density Control

Regulate stock density in order to decrease competition for the limited resources. Over-stocking increases stress and heightens the risk of disease outbreaks.

Winter Requirements of Some Species

Know your aquaculture species specific needs. Cold tolerant species like trout are going to be managed much differently than a warm water species such as tilapia.

Equipment Care

Routine Maintenance

• Inspection for wear and tear on the aerators, heaters and filtration systems.
• Service equipment in order to provide for continuous service during very cold weather.

Back-up Power

• Have emergency generator power available in case of electrical power loss.
• During cold snaps, it is important that aeration and/or heating not be interrupted.
  

Contingency Planning

Develop an Action Plan

Develop a course of action to be taken in the event of emergencies related to sudden temperature fluctuations, equipment failure, or disease outbreaks.

Maintain a Stockpile of Essentials

Maintain adequate supplies of items such as water conditioners, fish drugs, and replacement machinery parts.

Long-Range Planning

Winterizing Ponds

Include winterization in your routine annual maintenance. This would include cleaning, upgrading of equipment, and structural enhancements.

Data Collection and Analysis

Record the water quality readings along with any observations regarding unusual fish behavior. This will help you make refinements in your practices next winter.

Aquaculture ponds during winter season need to be managed proactively and knowledgeably. A strategy addressing all four main concerns-that of water quality, aeration, feeding, and health monitoring, will give the wholesome environment to the aquatic species. Besides minimizing risks, preparing for the winter months makes all the difference when a good growing season does return. Do not be caught off guard; invest in the proper tools for the job and adjust your plans according to those particular winter difficulties in order to achieve success with regards to aquaculture operations.

Farhana Islam
Agriculturist, Researcher
Fisheries Resource Management, CVASU

The post Key considerations for aquaculture pond maintenance in the winter season appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

Growing risks from climate change

Shrimp farming, fish cultivation, and rice production in Bangladesh’s coastal areas are increasingly threatened by climate change-induced factors such as rising sea levels, extreme flooding, cyclones, soil erosion, and salinization.

Dr. Aksya Kumar Sarkar, a shrimp production and processing expert with 25 years of experience, highlighted the vulnerability of shrimp feeding, breeding, and nursery grounds in the region. Producers and exporters are becoming concerned about declining shrimp production, which is affecting exports due to climate-induced temperature fluctuations.

In the country’s southwest, shrimp farming remains largely dependent on wild post-larvae since hatchery production is still limited and market is flooded with low-quality smuggled nauplii. Hence, farmers prefer wild post-larvae for their higher survival rates and better quality.

Impact on shrimp farming

According to shrimp expert and former fisheries officer Dr. Aksya Kumar Sarkar explained that prawns are highly sensitive to salinity levels, requiring brackish water in their early life stages. Shrimp post-larvae depend on estuaries for shelter and food, making them vulnerable to environmental changes.

The key shrimp-farming districts of Khulna, Bagerhat, and Satkhira are facing severe impacts from floods, heavy rainfall, droughts, cyclones, and tidal surges. Many poor coastal residents who collect wild shrimp post-larvae near the Sundarbans are reporting declining catches due to increasing water temperature and salinity fluctuations caused by climate change.

Extreme weather events and rising sea levels could further alter the aquatic ecosystem, leading to a scarcity of wild post-larvae. Shrimp-farming communities are now dealing with a dual challenge: reduced post-larvae stocks and increased risks of coastal flooding and storm surges.

Economic and social consequences

According to Dr. Praful Kumar Sarkar, small-scale shrimp farmers and associated workers are often socially, economically, and politically marginalized. Limited access to essential services such as healthcare and education further exacerbates their struggles.

The declining availability of post-larvae has significantly impacted coastal villages reliant on shrimp farming. Climate change has led to the destruction of shrimp feeding, breeding, and nursery grounds in the Sundarbans, further intensifying the crisis.

As a major contributor to Bangladesh’s economy, shrimp farming is an essential sector, with most shrimp being exported to the EU nations, UK and USA. Any decline in shrimp production due to climate change could result in a substantial loss of foreign currency earnings. Additionally, lower production levels could impact hatchery operations, shrimp feed industries, and shrimp processing businesses.

Urgency for research and adaptation

Climate change presents a major challenge to the long-term sustainability of the shrimp sector. More research is needed to develop adaptive farming strategies, improve existing technology, and implement community-based climate resilience measures.

Increased salinity in inland groundwater has been observed in recent years, causing soil degradation and reducing soil fertility. This, in turn, affects rice and freshwater fish production and limits biodiversity.

Dr. Mostafa Sarwar, a climate expert and professor at Khulna University of Science and Technology, stressed the need for improved adaptation measures. Integrated coastal management, reforestation, and climate resilience programs could help mitigate economic losses and protect the shrimp industry from further damage.

Rising water temperatures and shrimp farming challenges

There is a noticeable difference in heat tolerance between mature shrimp and their post-larvae. Farmers typically release post-larvae into shrimp enclosures in January-February when water temperatures remain around 25°C. However, as temperatures rise to 27°C in March, many shrimp fail to survive, leading to increased mortality rates. Warmer waters are also contributing to the spread of viral infections, further threatening shrimp production.

Salinity issues and water scarcity

According to Golam Kibria Ripon, General Secretary of the Shrimp Fry Trading Association, salinity in Khulna’s rivers has become a significant challenge for shrimp farmers. Normally, river water in the region turns saline in January, but in recent years, this transition has been delayed until February. Additionally, salinity levels, which previously ranged between 16-18 ppt in May-June, have now dropped to 8-10 ppt, negatively affecting shrimp growth.

A shrimp farmer from Daulatpur, Khulna, reported that water scarcity is a growing concern for shrimp production. Additionally, frequent virus outbreaks are further reducing yields, making it increasingly difficult for farmers to sustain their livelihoods.

As climate change continues to threaten shrimp farming in Bangladesh, urgent measures are needed to adapt to these challenges. Research, policy interventions, and sustainable farming practices must be prioritized to protect both the environment and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The post Climate change poses a threat to shrimp farming in Khulna appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

Flood protection: A natural defense system

Globally, mangroves provide an estimated $855 billion in flood protection services, according to the research of Center for Coastal Climate Resilience at UC Santa Cruz. The Sundarbans itself plays a pivotal role in this contribution, offering irreplaceable protection to Bangladesh’s vulnerable coastal areas, where densely populated communities face recurring threats from cyclones and flooding. Its value extends far beyond national borders, exemplifying the critical importance of preserving such ecosystems for global climate resilience. The Sundarbans, spread over 6000 square kilometers in Bangladesh and about 4000 square kilometers in India, is a critical shield against floods and cyclones for the densely populated coastal regions of Bangladesh. Using advanced flood risk models, researchers have shown that mangroves, such as those in the Sundarbans, reduce storm surges and protect lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.

The research, conducted by project co-lead, Pelayo Menendez and center director, Michael W. Beck, is featured in the World Bank’s 2024 edition of The Changing Wealth of Nations. As highlighted by the research, the value of mangroves for flood-risk reduction has grown exponentially due to rising coastal populations and increasing climate threats. For Bangladesh, which experiences frequent cyclones, the Sundarbans is a natural barrier that significantly mitigates the impact of these disasters. The devastating Cyclone Sidr in 2007 serves as a stark reminder of how mangroves save lives—areas with dense mangrove cover reported fewer casualties and less infrastructure damage. Furthermore, these natural defenses minimize the long-term economic losses often associated with such disasters.

Biodiversity and livelihoods

The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to iconic species such as the Bengal tiger, spotted deer and countless aquatic organisms. It serves as a nursery ground for fish and crabs, ensuring the sustainability of local fisheries. This biodiversity directly supports the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on fishing, honey collection, and eco-tourism. Beyond these tangible benefits, the Sundarbans also holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for local communities.

However, human activities specially brackish water shrimp farming and deforestation have contributed to the degradation of mangroves. Despite this, studies show that the protective benefits provided by mangroves have grown—protecting 61% more people and safeguarding 109% more capital assets from floods in 2020 compared to a decade earlier. This underscores the increasing reliance on these natural assets for coastal resilience. The Sundarbans’ ecosystem services act as a safety net for many vulnerable communities, making its conservation a matter of both ecological and human survival.

Economic and climate benefits

Mangroves, including the Sundarbans, are crucial for Bangladesh’s climate adaptation strategies. By sequestering large amounts of carbon, they help combat global warming. The Sundarbans plays a key role in reducing the country’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Moreover, mangroves offer a cost-effective alternative to artificial infrastructure like seawalls, which require significant financial investments and maintenance.

Sustainable aquaculture is gaining momentum as a means of balancing food security with environmental conservation. In Bangladesh, organization like FISHBYTE, an aqua-tech impact startup pioneering efforts to modernize shrimp farming, enabling higher yields from existing land while integrating mangrove restoration into farming practices. Their innovative approach demonstrates how Bangladesh’s low-yield aquaculture can be transformed into climate-smart solutions, supporting biodiversity, enhancing carbon sequestration and reducing the need for land conversion. By incorporating mangrove plantations into aquaculture systems, it exemplifies how environmental restoration can align with economic development, creating a win-win scenario.

The economic benefits of the Sundarbans extend beyond flood protection. The World Bank’s Changing Wealth of Nations report emphasizes mangroves as natural capital assets with long-term value. For Bangladesh, preserving the Sundarbans is not just an environmental necessity but also a smart economic choice. It safeguards fisheries, promotes tourism, and ensures the well-being of coastal communities. The region’s fisheries, for instance, contribute significantly to local and national economies, underscoring the forest’s role in food security and job creation.

Challenges and the way forward

Despite the Sundarbans’ immense value, it faces threats from illegal logging, industrial pollution, and climate change. Rising salinity and reduced freshwater flow from upstream rivers are deteriorating the forest’s health. Additionally, unchecked industrial activities and unplanned urbanization exacerbate these challenges, putting both the ecosystem and the communities it supports at risk. Bangladesh must prioritize mangrove conservation and restoration as part of its national climate-adaptation policies.

Innovative approaches like integrating mangrove restoration with aquaculture demonstrate how sustainable practices can balance economic needs with environmental conservation. By promoting climate-smart aquaculture and integrating mangrove restoration Bangladesh can address the twin challenges of food security and ecosystem preservation.

Investing in the Sundarbans will yield dividends in disaster risk reduction, biodiversity conservation, and economic growth. Learning from global initiatives, such as the Coastal Resilience Explorer tool developed by the Center for Coastal Climate Resilience, can help Bangladesh implement innovative strategies to protect and expand its mangrove cover. Moreover, community engagement and education are critical to fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for mangrove conservation among local populations.

Global perspectives and local actions

The Sundarbans is part of a broader global network of mangroves that collectively act as climate regulators and biodiversity hotspots. Countries like Vietnam, India, and Indonesia have implemented successful mangrove restoration programs, offering valuable lessons for Bangladesh. These initiatives highlight the importance of government support, community involvement and private sector partnerships in achieving sustainable outcomes. Bangladesh can draw inspiration from these models while tailoring strategies to its unique socio-economic and ecological context.

International collaboration also plays a pivotal role. As climate change knows no borders, global efforts to fund and support mangrove conservation are essential. Bangladesh can leverage its position as a vulnerable yet resilient nation to advocate for increased international assistance and knowledge-sharing platforms focused on mangrove preservation.

Last but not least

The Sundarbans is more than a mangroves forest; it is Bangladesh’s first line of defense against climate-induced disasters and a cornerstone of its environmental and economic resilience. By recognizing the Sundarbans as a natural asset and integrating its conservation into national development plans, Bangladesh can secure a sustainable future for its people while contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.

The post The vital role of Sundarban mangrove forest in Bangladesh especially against floods and cyclones appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

In the fiscal year 2023-24, the export value of fish and fisheries products from Khulna dropped by approximately USD 56.46 million. The fisheries inspection and quality control office in Khulna reported that only 41,000 tonnes of fish and related products, valued at USD 179.01 million, were exported during this period.

In comparison, the 2021-22 fiscal year saw the Department of Fisheries in Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat exporting 33,271 tonnes of shrimp, white fish, and other fisheries goods, generating around USD 247.13 million. However, in the 2022-23 fiscal year, exports dropped to 28,316 tonnes, worth approximately USD 235.59 million, and further decreased to 25,196 tonnes in the 2023-24 fiscal year, with a value of USD 178.89 million.

The Khulna region has experienced a significant decrease in shrimp and white fish exports, with a reduction of 3,120 tonnes and USD 56.46 million compared to the previous fiscal year. Additionally, shrimp farming has declined across Khulna, Bagerhat, and Satkhira over the last five years.

Black Tiger shrimp (P. monodon) farming in saline water in Khulna has decreased from 36,151 hectares in the 2018-19 fiscal year to 32,383 hectares in the 2023-24 fiscal year. Similarly, Giant Freshwater prawn or Galda (M rosenbergii) farming in freshwater has decreased from 20,034 hectares to 19,016 hectares over the same period. This reduction in shrimp farming has resulted in a decrease of at least 3,500 tonnes of shrimp production.

Khulna Fisheries Officer Joydev Paul explained that the decline in global demand and value for shrimp has led many farmers to sell their products in local markets, where small-sized shrimp fetch higher prices than in international markets.

Lipton Sarder, a Fisheries Inspection and Quality Control officer, noted that the region also exports white fish such as Vetki (Barramundi), Pabda (Butterfish), Tengra (small catfish) and Parshe (Mullet) alongside shrimp. However, the global economic recession and ongoing conflicts have decreased the demand and value of these exports, further affecting the income from shrimp and fisheries exports.

Despite the challenges, 20 to 25 organizations continue to export regularly, though only 41 licensed exporters remain active. Mofidul Islam, a frozen shrimp exporter in Khulna, mentioned that frozen shrimp factories are struggling due to the shortage of Galda and Tiger shrimp, while operational costs, including wages and electricity bills, remain high.

Professor Amir Hossain (Rtd.), a resident of Bagerhat, pointed out that increasing salinity in water due to rising sea levels and cyclone-induced floods in southern Bangladesh has further hindered shrimp farming.

Humayun Kabir, Director of the Bangladesh Frozen Foods Exporters Association (BFFEA), stated that export-oriented shrimp factories are currently receiving only a quarter of the fish needed to meet global market demand.

The post Shrimp exports decline in Khulna amid global economic challenges and policy issues appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

Shrimp used to hold the position of being the second-largest export product contributing to foreign exchange earnings in Bangladesh. Spread across 1,52,496 hectares of land, shrimp cultivation heavily relies on fry supplied by hatcheries, particularly those in Cox’s Bazar, catering to regions such as Satkhira, Khulna, and Bagerhat.

Broodstock, sourced from the deep sea by ships, serve as the foundation for fry production. However, in March, the harvest yielded fewer than 5,000 broodstock. It was about 20-34 thousand by 40 ships during this time earlier. Each mother shrimp has the potential to yield up to 60,000 fry.

The Shrimp Hatchery Association of Bangladesh (SHAB) Secretary General, Mohammad Najibul Islam, reported that despite setting a target of 500 million fry, only 250 million were produced by Cox’s Bazar’s 30 hatcheries. This shortfall has led to market crises, with many resorting to the illegal sale of low-quality fry.

Recent observations at Balaka Hatchery in Sonarpara revealed a specialized production process for fry from mother shrimp. Despite efforts, the hatchery fell short of its target of producing 110 million fry, managing only 52 million due to the broodstock shortage.

The production cost per hatchery has surged, now standing at $0.005. Transporting each “fry” to Satkhira via cargo plane costs $0.0012 totaling $0.0057 per fry. However, the market is flooded with low-quality disease prone fry priced at $0.0027 to $0.0032, resulting in losses for hatcheries.

Mother shrimp take 30 days to hatch from eggs, and within 25 days, the fry must be released into the enclosure. Hatchery managers, like Md. Alamgir of Kalatali Beach Quality Shrimp Hatchery, have been purchasing mother shrimp at additional costs to sustain fry production despite rising expenses.

Concerns over the hatchery’s vulnerability to high temperatures have prompted the use of cargo aircraft for swift fry delivery from Cox’s Bazar to Khulna-Satkhira. However, the reduction in available cargo planes from four to two has disrupted transportation, resulting in increased shrimp-fry mortality during lengthy road journeys.

SHAB President Ashek Ullah stressed the importance of timely supply of quality fry to sustain Bangladesh’s shrimp industry, which annually contributes over 3000 crores to foreign exchange earnings. Efforts are underway to address the shortage of mother shrimp and control shrimp diseases, ensuring the industry’s stability and growth. District Fisheries Officer, Badruzzaman, highlighted ongoing initiatives in this regard.

The post Bangladesh shrimp industry suffering severe crisis of Black Tiger broodstock, fry production goes half appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

The earliest upazilas in Bangladesh to practice shrimp farming largely, were Satkhira Sadar, Debihata, Kaliganj, and Shymnagar in the Khulna Region. Later, shrimp farming dispersed over Bagerhat, Pirojpur, Barguna, Patuakhali, and Jashore.

In Bangladesh however, most of the shrimp supply comes from Khulna and Chittagong regions. Although, culture pattern sometimes varies due to environmental factors in these regions.

In the Khulna-Satkhira area, shrimp farming is often done in rotation with agriculture, reflecting the monsoon’s effect on ambient seasonal salinity.

The brackishwater shrimp and fish are usually cultured during January-July, known as the high salinity season.

While, in the low salinity season (August-December) farmers either culture some freshwater shrimp or cultivate agricultural crops.

However, farmers in the Dumuria Upazila are now hesitant to produce crops such as Boro paddy since they get greater profits from Galda cultivation.

The effort, however, began a long time ago, when these farmers received training from the Department of Fisheries as part of the Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries project. Following that, the farmers began farming shrimp in a cluster system.

Cluster-based shrimp farming is a unique approach in which farmers from a given region collaborate in a regulated and organized manner to achieve certain aims and objectives.

Cluster shrimp farming is creating new opportunities for boosting safe shrimp production, strengthening the coastal agro-economy, alleviating poverty, and meeting the SDGs in Bangladesh.

According to one of the successful shrimp farmers, “Shrimp fry are readily accessible, and shrimp farms may be established with minimal expenditure.  Shrimp can be cultivated all year. And for that, we are all interested in it.”

Using a cluster structure and contemporary technology, shrimp output in the Khulna area has been increased from 300 kg per hectare (ha) to 1,000 kg.

However, it’s not only the system that benefited the farmers. The fair pricing is also a crucial factor here.

There’s a notion that shrimp from Bangladesh costs more than shrimp from other competitors. There are several reasons for this, but one, in particular, is that white leg shrimp (L. vannamei) dominates the world shrimp market, whereas Bagda (black tigers) dominates Bangladesh’s shrimp industry.

However, a well-developed domestic market might help to partially overcome this issue. If given greater guidance, funding, and technical expertise, shrimp farmers in other parts of the country may achieve the same level of success as those in Dumuria, Khulna.

Jaber Bin Abdul Bari
Department of Oceanography, NSTU

The post Fair price, big gains: profitable shrimp farming in Dumuria, Khulna appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

Shrimp is one of the most traded seafood species in the world and will reach a market size of US$ 69.35 billion by 2028 making it one of the most lucrative businesses. However, there are numerous shrimp species in the market, such as L. vannamei, P. monodon, M. rosenbergii, and others species. Different species have different tastes, textures, and colors, making it possible for consumers to choose shrimp for their culinary creations.

However, the Pacific white shrimp, also known as L. vannamei, has emerged as the leading species in the seafood industry, accounting for over 50% of global production.

Due to its adaptability to a wide range of environments, highly rapid growth rate, and ability to withstand extreme conditions, it has gained a reputation for being a highly durable shrimp species. In comparison with many other shrimp species, it grows rapidly, reaching marketable size within a relatively short time frame. Having this characteristic allows shrimp farmers to produce more L. vannamei in a shorter period of time, which is very crucial for the profit in the shrimp industry.

There also also some risks involved in shrimp aquaculture. The most significant threat to L. vannamei production, however, is the propagation of disease. Among the diseases that are most frequently seen in Vannamei shrimp farms are White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV), IHHNV, EMS, EHP, and vibriosis.

Research to find a proper cure for shrimp diseases is not new. Prior research on L. vannamei revealed that the immunological and antioxidant responses were enhanced by organic acid supplementation, such as citric acid, formic acid, and succinic acid.

Tartaric acid, however, modulates intestinal flora in shrimp, inhibits the growth of opportunistic pathogens, and reduces antibiotic consumption, according to findings from the current study.

It was found that the shrimp receiving diets incorporating Tartaric acid, had enhanced growth performance, feed utilization, gut lactic acid bacteria count, and digestive enzyme activity. The study confirms that tartaric acid boosts L. vannamei’s growth and defense systems.

“Based on the results of these studies, Tartaric acid can be considered a novel immunopotentiator and growth stimulator in cultures of L. vannamei,” said Dr Morteza Yousefi one of the researchers involved in the study.

More research is needed, however, to explore the true potential of Tartaric acid to use it for other commercial aquatic organisms such as finfish and shellfish.

Jaber Bin Abdul Bari
Department of Oceanography, NSTU

The post Tartaric acid shows promising results against shrimp diseases appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

In the current fiscal year 2023-24, Satkhira district has witnessed a surge in Galda exports, totaling USD 7 million. This represents not only a substantial financial boost for the district but also a notable increase of 1000 tons in freshwater shrimp production compared to the previous season. The positive momentum is expected to continue, with projections indicating further growth in both exports and production.

The Satkhira District Fisheries Department reveals that the region engages in commercial cultivation of various shrimp species, including Bagda (P. monodon), Galda (M. rosenbergii), Harina (M. monoceros) etc. Despite the popularity of Bagda (P. monodon), farmers are increasingly turning to Galda (M. rosenbergii) farming due to the high prevalence of viruses and infectious diseases affecting Bagda. Additionally, the international market’s significant demand for Galda or freshwater shrimp makes it an attractive option for farmers.

In the current season, Galda cultivation spans 20,000 hectares across seven upazilas in the district, marking a substantial increase of 2,000 hectares from the previous season. Golam Mostafa, a seasoned Galda farmer from Raichpur village in Satkhira Sadar Upazila, shares his success story, stating that the current season’s 4-hectare Galda farming yielded a profit of $7.3 thousand, exceeding the previous season’s earnings of $5.5 thousand. Encouraged by the high growth and favorable prices, Mostafa plans to expand his Galda cultivation in the future.

Despite the success, farmers highlight challenges in Galda production, particularly in the collection of post larvae. Restrictions on collecting PL’s (Post Larvae) from rivers or the Sundarbans, coupled with illegal imports from India which are often disease prone, contribute to the insufficiency of freshwater shrimp production compared to the demand. Farmers are calling for government support to address these challenges and ensure sustainable growth in the Galda industry.

Abul Kalam Babla, the General Secretary of the Bangladesh Prawn Growers Association, emphasizes the vast potential in Satkhira for Galda exports. However, he points out complications in collecting it’s PL, urging government intervention to boost PL production and avert potential disruptions in Galda farming due to the shortages of PL in the future.

Satkhira District Fisheries Officer Anichur Rahman emphasizes the district’s progress, stating that the current season witnessed a 2,000-hectare increase in freshwater shrimp cultivation, resulting in the production of 11 thousand tons with an estimated export market value of $7 million. This notable growth signifies Satkhira’s pivotal role in reshaping Bangladesh’s seafood industry, promising a brighter future for Galda exports.

The post Satkhira’s Galda Shrimp: A Positive Turnaround for Bangladesh’s Shrimp Market appeared first on Seafood Network BD.

Emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental equilibrium, the minister underscored the adherence to policies aligned with these principles, guided by the strict directives of the Prime Minister. He highlighted the Ministry of Land’s pivotal role in governmental efforts to address climate change through initiatives such as the protection of agricultural land and land zoning projects.

During the meeting, Saifuzzaman Chowdhury sought expert advice and instructed the planting of suitable vegetation in the spacious open area of Shrimp Mahal, considering the inherent challenges of coastal regions, including salinity and shrimp farming. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of safeguarding the dam near shrimp Mahal during water drainage activities.

The gathering included representatives from the Ministry of Lands, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, field administration officials from Cox’s Bazar and Satkhira districts, and various stakeholders involved in shrimp farming and related businesses. Everybody express their support for the eco-friendly shrimp farming in Bangladesh.

Subsequently, the 74th meeting of the Committee on Leasing of Government Waters took place under Minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury’s leadership. Officials from the Ministry of Lands, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Directorate of Fisheries, Directorate of Cooperatives, and Fisheries Development Corporation participated, with district administrators from Habiganj, Rangamati, Moulvibazar, and Natore joining virtually from their respective districts.

The post Directives from land ministry, go for Eco-friendly shrimp farming in Bangladesh appeared first on Seafood Network BD.