Finfish hatcheries in Taiwan：Recent advances. In：C.S. Lee, M.S. Su and I C. Liao (eds.)

Abstract

From a technological point, Taiwan's hatchery industry can be divided into three stages, according to the means used in producing the stocking material. The first depends on natural spawning. The second depends on induced maturation and spawning by injection or implantation of hormonal materials. The third depends on spontaneous spawning through physiological, nutritional, ecological and endocrinological approaches. Recent advances in the industry include the initial successes in the hatchery of three marine species, namely, yellow spotted grunt (Plectorhinchus cinctus) and flathead goby ( Glossogobiusgiuris) in 1990 and red drum ( Sciaenops ocellatus) in 1991. Also in 1991, what was thought to be infeasible then in eel larviculture was achieved through the joint efforts of scientists and hatchery operators when Japanese eel ( Anguilla japonica) larvae were reared through its 25th day. Taiwan now has a total of 37 finfish species in which larviculture is possible. This paper covers some historical developments and recent advances in finfish hatcheries in Taiwan, including several breakthroughs. It presents six major species as a representation of the current and potential culture species in Taiwan. In addition, problems, strategies and prospects for the future development of finfish hatcheries in Taiwan are proffered.