ICAR-CIBA Develops Innovative Seaweed-Shrimp Integrated Farming Model

23 June 2025, Chennai

ICAR–Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai successfully developed and validated a novel Seaweed-Shrimp Integrated Farming System, aimed at enhancing the productivity and sustainability of shrimp aquaculture.

The model demonstrated a production yield of 8 tons/ha in 110 days, with an average shrimp weight of 23g and an impressive survival rate of over 98%. Additionally, 1.2 tons of Gracilaria salicornia seaweed were harvested in two cycles from the same pond without the use of supplementary feed providing extra income and promoting eco-friendly aquaculture practices.

A Field Day was organized today at ICAR-CIBA’s Muttukadu Experimental Station, Chennai, to showcase the benefits of the integrated model.

The event was graced by Shri K.C. Devasenapathi, IAS, Member-Secretary, Coastal Aquaculture Authority, and Mr. Uday Kishan Cherukuneedi, MD, Uday Aquaconnect.

Dr. Kuldeep K. Lal, Director, ICAR-CIBA, briefed the dignitaries on the integrated culture practices, highlighting the model’s impact on water quality, improved feed conversion ratio (FCR), enhanced productivity, and diversified income sources for farmers.

A delegation of 20 officials from the Department of Fisheries, Odisha, along with ICAR-CIBA scientists, actively participated in the event. The culture methodology was demonstrated by Shri R. Aravind, Scientist, and Dr. J. Raymond Jani Angel, Senior Scientist, offering valuable hands-on insights into the production system.

This integrated approach presents a scalable, sustainable model for the future of Indian shrimp aquaculture.

(Source: ICAR–Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai)