Shrimp seed production in Malaysia

Abstract

The giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, and the marine shrimp, Penaeus monodon, are now becoming the most important cultured species in Malaysia. The progress in the aquaculture of these species has led to the development of hatcheries in various parts of the country. To date, a total of 50 hatcheries are now in operation.

Fry production technology varies between hatcheries. For M. rosenbergii, clear-water, closed system, and green-water larviculture techniques are common. For P. monodon, the two-tank and one-tank larviculture systems are used. A range of problems such as lack of skilled hatchery personnel, larval diseases, and lack of financial support hampers hatchery operations. In order to ensure the continued operation of the hatcheries, the Department of Fisheries (Malaysia) is providing the necessary support services and technical assistance.