The evolution of the grass prawn (Penaeus monodon) hatchery industry in Taiwan

Abstract

The establishment of the technique for the artificial propagation of the grass prawn or black tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) has paved the way for the rapid development of the prawn culture industry in Taiwan. Poor quality of hatchery-produced larvae, among others, has been blamed for the drastic reduction in production in recent years. The evolution of the hatchery industry concerning broodstock sourcing, hatchery system and rearing methods, and disease prevention and sanitation measures are reviewed. In addition, relevant future considerations on the establishment of a fry quality verification system to ensure high quality fry and concomitantly, the revivification of the prawn culture industry in Taiwan, are addressed.