Advancing the Development of Asian Seabass and Banana Shrimp Aquaculture through the Thai Fish Project

Abstract

Around the world, the rapid expansion of aquaculture has been facilitated by the introduction of non-native aquatic species, particularly those that exhibit fast growth and stress resilience traits. This has resulted in substantial socioeconomic benefits for numerous countries, contributing significantly to their national income and creating numerous job opportunities. However, more often than not, these economic advantages come at the expense of local aquatic biodiversity. Thailand is one of the countries whose aquaculture production is mainly concentrated on alien species: Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Pacific whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei). According to the Government of Thailand Cabinet Resolution on Prevention, Control, and Eradication of Alien Species in 2018, the said fish and shrimp species are considered invasive and likely to become invasive, respectively, indicating their role in disrupting local ecosystems. In this context, the project “Utilization of Thailand Local Genetic Resources to Develop Novel Farmed Fish for Global Market” (Thai Fish Project) was launched as a collaborative effort between Japan and Thailand to promote the domestication of two Thai native species—Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) and banana shrimp (Penaeus merguiensis)—through research and development of technologies under four major research output groups, followed by nine sub-groups. From its start in 2019 to its completion in 2025, the Project successfully developed a comprehensive package of aquaculture technologies and know-how tailored for the target species. This article aims to discuss the key activities and achievements of each research group of the Project.