14/01/14: University fights back against fatal shrimp disease; electric ships to cut fish farm emissions; GAA collaborates with Aussie seafood importers

The University of Arizona, USA recently reported that Professor Don Lightner, along with assistant staff scientist Linda Nunan have created a rapid diagnostic test capable of detecting the bacterium which causes Early Mortality Disease (EMS) in shrimp.

This method will enable specific detection of affected shrimp, currently only identifiable through the use of histology, which is both time consuming and expensive. 

Through the University's technology commercialisation office Tech Launch Arizona, a licensing agreement has been drawn up with GeneReach Biotechnology Corp. to commercialise the solution and make it available worldwide.

Full news available here.

Yesterday, YonHap News Agency reported the news that South Korea plans to introduce its first electric ships in order to help reduce the energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions of small fishing farms.

According to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, the government plans to provide 1.2 billion won (US$1.13 million) to introduce up to 40 ships.
Full news available here.

In a move aimed at advancing responsible aquaculture in Australia, the Global Aquaculture Alliance (GAA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Seafood Importers Association of Australia (SIAA).

More than 70% of edible seafood consumed by Australians is imported, much of it by the SIAA’s 25 member companies.

Full news available here. 

A steamed tail-on shrimp. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)