Developing the tools and articulating the value proposition for genomic selection in Pacific Oyster selective breeding
Developing biomass assessment approaches, harvest methodologies and biosecurity knowledge for wild-harvest of seaweeds in southern Australia
After many years of interest but little on ground activity apart from a few established operations based on the harvest of beach-cast material, the seaweed industry is starting to gain momentum in southern Australia. There is particular interest in the farming of Asparagopsis for its methane reducing properties in ruminants, but also in several species for human consumption and other uses, including the golden kelp Ecklonia radiata. While much of the focus is on the development of an aquaculture industry, this needs to be supported by the wild harvest of seedstock, at least in the early years, and there is also some interest in wild-harvest for product. However, the knowledge base and tools available for managers to regulate this emerging industry are limited. This proposal aims to start filling in some of these gaps. The first is to develop an understanding of the biomass present in targeted areas, and importantly, the development of a rapid assessment tool to do this, which can then be used to form the basis of a stock assessment methodology as the industry expands. The second is to develop harvest methodologies that allow for the recovery of local stocks, and which can be used to inform rotational harvest strategies by documenting how long recovery takes. The third is to develop an understanding of some of the biosecurity issues likely to be faced by industry and regulators, which will allow managers to make informed decisions around translocation policies to both prevent the spread of disease, and to maintain the genetic integrity of natural populations.
Aquafin CRC - Atlantic Salmon Aquaculture Subprogram: environmental control of growth and early maturation in salmonids
Cracking the code on captive breeding of Macquarie Perch
Seafood Trade Advisory Group - transitioning to a new communications, governance and operating model
Ensuring market-focused value adding capabilities are available to SA Seafood companies today and through to 2030
Final report
Fresh premium seafood has long been the best pathway to a viable consumer. That remains true for premium SA wildcatch species (e.g., rock lobster, prawn, abalone) that are, and will continue to be, prosperous. But processing and value adding have never been more critical to attract retail consumers than they are today. Modern seafood consumers (retail, food service, or online) are informed and agile, and increasingly choosing retail offers that are consumer meals ready-to-eat. Fishers, farmers, and chain partners must engage in this reality if they are to remain competitive and viable.
Globally and nationally, aquaculture is the largest seafood supplier, setting baseline prices for retail and online product formats. Its easy access, scalable supply, chain efficiency, and species control over yield and product format, can more easily attract investment. SA aquafarms and a few wildcatch fisheries (e.g., Jackets, Pipi) are approaching economic scale in supply and along integrated supply chains. Both are seeking to integrate or access technology and capability to value-add to tight national retail and food service client specifications. Efficient market-focused seafood value adding will build SA’s capability and retain investment and employment, particularly in regional communities.
This review consulted widely (fishers, farmers, processors, value adders, investors, regulators) regarding processing and value adding capacity and capability that exists and is required to ensure SA’s successful market focused value adding by 2030. Unsurprisingly capacity gaps already exist and will grow (without clear heads) as supply increases 25,000 tonnes (32%) by 2030. Eighteen core issues and risks are identified.