Biosecurity in Shrimp Hatcheries

When you hear the word “biosecurity”, what do you think? Footbaths, water treatment, and PPE? Those are some of the many biosecurity tools that hatcheries have.

But why is it important?

Biosecurity is important for shrimp hatcheries because it helps to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases and pests that can have a significant impact on the health and survival of the shrimp.

Shrimp hatcheries are particularly susceptible to disease outbreaks due to the high density of shrimp in a confined area, and the close proximity of different life stages and species. A disease outbreak in a hatchery can cause significant losses and impact the production and profitability of the hatchery.

To maintain biosecurity, hatcheries employ a number of measures to minimize the risk of disease introduction and spread, including:

1. Quarantine procedures: New stock is typically quarantined before being introduced into the hatchery to minimize the risk of disease introduction.
2. Disinfection protocols: Hatcheries use disinfection procedures, such as chlorine baths and ultraviolet light, to kill pathogens and prevent disease spread.
3. Physical barriers: Hatcheries use physical barriers, such as screens, to separate different life stages and species of shrimp and prevent the spread of diseases.
4. Staff training and personal protective equipment: Hatchery staff receive training on biosecurity practices and use personal protective equipment to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

Maintaining biosecurity is essential for the health and survival of the shrimp in the hatchery, and for the success and profitability of the hatchery as a whole. By implementing biosecurity measures, hatcheries can help to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks and maintain a healthy and productive environment for the shrimp.

So next time you’re stepping through a footbath, don’t just dip your toes. Think, why is this important? Take biosecurity seriously so that hatcheries can avoid losses and continue to thrive.

If you’re looking to improve the biosecurity of your live feeds at your hatchery ask us about our algae bioreactors. We’d be happy to connect you to other hatcheries around the world using our PBRs.