Aquaculture in Taiwan-with particular reference to feed development

Abstract

Global production from capture fisheries and aquaculture supplied about 132.2 million mt of food fish in 2003. The contribution of aquaculture to global supplies of fish, crustacean and mollusks continues to grow, increasing from below 10% of total production by weight in the 1970s to over 30% in 2000-2003. Aquaculture in Taiwan began more than 300 years ago. The industry grew rapidly in the 1970s and early 1980s because of several factors including good water and soil quality, suitable climatic conditions, availability of natural fish fry, hardworking farmers, as well as great contribution of the scientific community for establishing appropriate aquaculture technologies. Moreover, the successful use of formulated aquafeed in the aquaculture practice was one of the major developments that contributed to the success of aquaculture in Taiwan. The development of formulated aquafeed in Taiwan started in 1969 when eel feed was first introduced to the market. After that, the use of formulated aquafeed in aquaculture practice showed a great impact on aquaculture production in Taiwan until 1987. Beginning in 1988, however, aquaculture in Taiwan has gone into a struggling and transition stage due to problems such as disease outbreaks and environment deterioration. Strategies are needed to be properly implemented to sustain future aquaculture development in Taiwan. Aquafeed industry which plays an essential role in the success of aquaculture business shall also adjust accordingly, with an outlook for future development.