CAT backs Prima Larvae Bali in advancing Whiteleg shrimp breeding

October 26, 2023 - Prima Larvae Bali (PLB), a leading hatchery in Eastern Indonesia, is bolstered by the expertise of the Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) to elevate their Whiteleg shrimp (vannamei) breeding program. This support enhances PLB's commitment to delivering biosecure, top-quality post-larvae suited for Indonesia's unique farming landscape, while also introducing cutting-edge genetic technology.

Credits: Prima Larvae Bali

PLB is widely recognised in the Indonesian aquaculture industry for its commitment to delivering quality post-larvae (PLs). Through a meticulously designed selection scheme and larvae culture process, the company ensures that each PL taps into the full genetic potential of the chosen broomstick for rapid growth and disease resistance. Emphasising stringent biosecurity measures, PLB exclusively produces 100 percent Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) PLs. Only frozen feeds are used to nurture the shrimp broomstick, and the facility strictly avoids the use of fresh/live feeds. This unwavering commitment to excellence distinguishes PLB and significantly contributes to the aquaculture sector in the region.

In an ambitious move to further improve the quality of its offerings, PLB has sought the expertise of the Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT), an industry leader in aquaculture research and development. Leveraging CAT's use of advanced statistical models, both organisations aim to refine the selection of genetic lines for shrimp that grow quickly and thrive in commercial settings. CAT's proven approach includes the utilisation of molecular markers and the latest technologies to generate genetically diverse and adaptable lines of shrimp. Their multi-generational selection methods have already demonstrated improvements in both growth rates and survival capabilities in commercial farm conditions.

Henry Wijaya, Director at Prima Larvae Bali, shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, "Our partnership with
CAT is a significant leap forward for PLB and the aquaculture industry in Indonesia. By combining CAT's robust genetic technologies and selection methodologies with our deep understanding of local needs, we are poised to deliver shrimp post larvae that are not only fast-growing but also increasingly resilient, generation after generation."

Alejandro Gutierrez, the Director of Breeding at CAT, also weighed in on the partnership: "We are thrilled to bring our scientific expertise to the table in this collaboration with PLB. By merging CAT's advanced statistical modelling and molecular techniques with PLB's local industry insights, we aim to produce shrimp lines that are not just fast-growing but are adapted to the unique conditions of Indonesian aquaculture. This is science and local knowledge coming together to make a real impact."

By offering farmers access to genetically superior shrimp lines, PLB is making a significant contribution to the sustainability of productivity of Indonesia's shrimp production.

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The Aquaculturists

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