Fish Farming News
SPECIAL FLORIDA AQUACULTURE FOCUS Introduction, overview of FL aquaculture • 10 Freshwater ornamentals • 13 Fish Health Notes • 6 Marine ornamentals • 15 Rocco Cipriano: respected Shellfish • 17 leader, innovator Reptiles • 20 Aquatic plants • 22 From the Field • 24 Visiting farms, folks, facilities in the Sunshine State
Aquaculture's National Newspaper – Volume 20 – Issue 5 – 2013 – A Compass Publication – US$2.50 4 &"3
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US POSTAGE PAID PAID POSTAGE US &-&# PRSRT STD STD PRSRT $ NEWS FROM AROUND THE INDUSTRY Growers Supply opens new Tech Center East, sets workshops SOUTH WINDSOR, CT – Growers look at some of the latest techniques in Supply has expanded its location here to controlled environment agriculture. include Tech Center East, an innovative Tech Center East (TCE) is an facility designed to offer a first-hand educational center modeled after
A look inside Growers Supply’s newly opened Tech Center East. Growers Supply photo
Growers Supply’s Dyersville, IA location. The TCE facility will provide visitors the opportunity to see products in use and to discover how the company Your fish will kiss you too can provide both the products and the expertise needed to design a complete When you use Kasco Aeration controlled environment growing system. In addition to serving as a showcase for Growers Supply’s latest products, Tech Center East will host a series of 'PVOUBJOTt"FSBUPSTt%JòVTFE"JS controlled environment agriculture (CEA) schools. These three-day workshops will cover topics including hydroponic growing, hydroponic fodder, and aquaponics. The workshops, hosted by Growers Supply’s resident experts on each topic, are designed to assist those who are interested in growing with a controlled environment. Outside experts on each topic will also be present, providing information and educating attendees about how different systems will perform and work in specific applications. Tech Center East will host its first CEA school Nov. 6-8. The first day will highlight hydroponic systems; the second day features information on hydroponic fodder systems; and the third day will be an introduction and informational session about aquaponics. Those in attendance will receive a packet of information for each day and contact info for speakers. There is a registration fee of $495 per person that will be returned in company credit upon the purchase of a complete growing system. www.kascomarine.com For more information on Tech Center East’s CEA school, or to register [email protected] for this event, contact Nichole Kemp (800) 621-7611 at (800) 327-6835 ext. 120; e-mail
2 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 International symposium off ers insights into technology and the evolution of clean, land-based recirc systems
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV – Less director of the Freshwater Institute. seafood industry,” Hankins continued. than three years ago, the seafood “Over the last two decades, the “Now we’re seeing minds changing industry and others were questioning Freshwater Institute’s scientific and and an ever-increasing acceptance of whether Atlantic salmon – one of the engineering research has developed fish- this more-sustainable intensification most popularly cultured fish in the farming systems on land that produce technique as an efficient fish farming EWS world – could be grown in cleaner and healthy, tasty fish and leave water clean. option. N healthier land-based systems. “Until recently, this technology wasn’t “The wide-ranging make up of the FROM AROUND THE INDUSTRY This past September, more than 140 considered a practical option for the workshop participants, across all aspects See NEWS, page 5 scientists, engineers, academics, fish farmers and suppliers, conservationists, government representatives, and innovative entrepreneurs from 15 countries came together – to discuss not if it could be done, but rather how to improve the performance, sustainability, and cost of raising salmon and other fish in commercial, land-based aquaculture.
ver the last Otwo decades, the Freshwater Institute’s scientific and engineering research has developed fish- farming systems on land that produce healthy, tasty fish and leave water clean.
The Aquaculture Innovation Workshop, sponsored by The Conservation Fund Freshwater Institute (FWI) in partnership with Tides Canada, The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and the Atlantic Salmon Federation, provided an open forum for these groups to learn about and discuss the challenges and rapidly emerging opportunities for land-based fish farming technology. During the three-day international symposium, at the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Conservation Training Center here, participants shared results from scientific studies and commercial advancements, identified opportunities to make this emerging aquaculture technology more environmentally friendly and economically viable, and highlighted the potential for growth with key decision makers in government, industry, and philanthropic organizations. “The world’s appetite for fish is increasing, and global demand has long passed what capture fisheries alone can provide; so aquaculture is challenged to cover the supply gap,” said Joe Hankins
FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 3 EDITORIAL/PUBLISHING OFFICE: PO Box 600, Deer Isle, ME 04627 Phone: (207) 348-1057 Fax: (207) 348-1059 www.fish-news.com NSIDENSIDE EDITOR & PUBLISHER II Richard W. Martin THIS ISSUE OF FFN [email protected]
EDITORIAL STAFF EWS Marine ornamental fish, Lorelei Stevens NFrom Around the Industry ...... 2 invertebrates, corals: [email protected] Florida leads shift from wild harvest Janice M. Plante [email protected] to cultured trade ...... 15 Susan Jones Fish Health Notes: [email protected] Rocco Cipriano: respected leader, Shellfish aquaculture: COLUMNISTS innovator ...... 6 Florida hard clam farming industry Rod Getchell, Bob Robinson, Bill Manci, by Rod Getchell a unique success story ...... 17 Greg Faulkner, Paul Hundley
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Reptile farming: Brian D. Robbins, Stephen Rappaport, SPECIAL Alligator, turtle production strong Ann Kane Rheault, Stephanie Farmer, Bob Rheault, Paul Zajicek, Portia Sapp, Craig and growing in Florida ...... 20 Watson, Leslie Sturmer LORIDA Aquatic plants: ADVERTISING FLORIDA Main Office: Serving aquarium, water garden, 1-800-989-5253 AQUACUTURE wetland restoration needs ...... 22 Richard W. Martin FOCUS [email protected] Fraun Cragg Martin Introduction, overview of Florida From the Field: [email protected] aquaculture: A quick tour around the Sunshine State SALES REPRESENTATIVES Diverse industry, strong support visiting farms, folks, facilities that are Brian Robbins network, natural advantages combine the bedrock of Florida aquaculture .....24 Phone (207) 624-2764, Fax (207) 563-3094 to create climate for growth ...... 10 by Bob Robinson [email protected] Frank X. Simonds Freshwater ornamentals: Phone (207) 677-2582 or (207) 348-1057 Oldest, largest, most diverse segment Coming Events: Clive Bullard of Florida aquaculture ...... 13 Shows, conferences, and more ...... 31 Phone (845) 231-0846, Fax (845) 265-9695 [email protected]
International: Acknowledgements John Gold Phone/Fax +44-20-8641-7717 This special Focus on Florida shellfish aquaculture for over 30 years, program to her duties. [email protected] Aquaculture issue of Fish Farming News and has been with the University of would not have been possible without Florida since 1995. She currently serves Portia Sapp, Environmental BUSINESS MANAGER the support and hard work of the as the statewide shellfish aquaculture Administrator Leslie H. Carr following individuals who contributed extension specialist and oversees Division of Aquaculture [email protected] the editorial reports and photos that applied research efforts at the Cedar Tallahassee, FL 32301-2961 appear here. Our sincere thanks. Key field station. (850) 488-5461 PRODUCTION –Editor E-mail: [email protected] Keith Kastelic Leslie Sturmer Website: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/ A native of Miami, FL, Craig Watson Statewide Shellfish Extension Agent IV [email protected] has been working with fish and University of Florida IFAS aquaculture since 1974, and has been Sen. George Kirkpatrick Marine Lab Paul Zajicek has been with the Florida SUBSCRIBER SERVICES with the University of Florida since 1988. Cedar Key, FL 32625 Department of Agriculture and Consumer Joy Carter, [email protected] He currently serves as the Director of Phone: (352) 543-5057 Services since 1987 and currently serves Phone toll-free (800) 989-5253 the UF Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory. E-mail: LNST @ufl.edu as a Biological Administrator with the Website: http://shellfish.ifas.ufl.edu Division of Aquaculture. He specializes in Compass Publications, Inc. Craig Watson, Director aquaculture regulatory compliance and Publications for marine markets: University of Florida economic development and acts as an FISH FARMING NEWS Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory Portia Sapp received her Master of ombudsman to the Florida aquaculture Ruskin, FL 33570 Science degree from Towson University industry. FISH FARMERS PHONE BOOK (813) 671-5230 in Maryland with a concentration in COMMERCIAL FISHERIES NEWS E-mail: [email protected] fish physiology. She has been with Paul W. Zajicek, Biological Administrator COMMERCIAL MARINE DIRECTORY Website: http://tal.ifas.ufl.edu/ the Florida Division of Aquaculture Division of Aquaculture SEA TECHNOLOGY since 2005 managing the Aquaculture Tallahassee, FL 32301-2961 SEA TECHNOLOGY BUYERS GUIDE Certification program at the Winter (850) 488-5461 Leslie Sturmer has been working Haven field office and has recently E-mail: [email protected] TO SUBSCRIBE: 1-800-989-5253 with marine fish, shrimp, and molluscan added the submerged land leasing Website: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/ Fish Farming News is published seven times per year. Copyright© 2013 Compass Publications, Inc. – Fisheries Division. All inquiries should be directed to: Fish Farming News, PO Box 600, Deer Isle, ME 0604627. Phone: oe Kurstan Noles with a market-sized (207) 348-1057. Fax: (207) 348-1059. hybrid striped bass at the Sunshiners www.fish-news.com. Circulation fish farm in east-central Florida. information: $14.95 per year. Canada ON THE COVER and Mexico $22.95 per year - surface; Bob Robinson photo airmail, $24.95. Other foreign $26.95 per year - surface; airmail, $29.95.
4 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 Left, attendees of the Aquaculture Innovation Workshop visit the Freshwater Institute’s closed- containment facilities, also in EWS Shepherdstown. N Ryan Hagerty photo FROM AROUND THE INDUSTRY
Continued from page 3 Below, the international Aquaculture Innovation Workshop of the issue, underscores this.” 5 was held recently at the National Their mind shift is based in part on Conservation Training Center in the foundational work being done in the Shepherdstown, WV. FWI facilities in Shepherdstown. Ryan Hagerty photo As a leader in the development of sustainable solutions to water resource management, the Freshwater Institute has conducted extensive research into closed-containment harvesting techniques that produce the highest quality fish populations for food production without vaccines, harsh chemicals, and the increasing antibiotics. e’ve come demand for healthy The workshop food. participants saw “Wa long The international a third generation symposium was the of Atlantic salmon ways in three years fifth in a series of nearing market summits designed to size in FWI’s provide a platform production tank. for diverse groups to learn about cutting- The ongoing successes of these edge technological advances, case studies land-based aquaculture systems were for commercial-scale projects currently highlighted at the workshop as practical underway, and cost-benefit analyses. and sustainable solutions to help meet See NEWS, page 30 FINANCE SOLUTIONS TERMS UP TO 7 YEARS RATES AS LOW AS 0% LIMITED TIME OFFER. SUBJECT TO APPROVAL.
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 5 Rocco Cipriano: respected leader, innovator KEARNEYSVILLE, WV - As I get the scope of fish older, I find myself getting emotional disease research when I thank the folks I look up to from mainly and respect in this world. Many of parasites to other these people resist the recognition they infectious and FISH HEALTH NOTES deserve, but I admire their selfless noninfectious BY ROD GETCHELL dedication to helping others. Rocco causes. Cipriano has been an unsung Cipriano is one these individuals. member of this team of scientists for Cipriano trained with the best fish over 30 years. Imagine learning from indispensable to the US Fish and health professionals at the former the likes of S.F. Snieszko, Ken Wolf, Glen Wildlife Service's National Fish Eastern Fish Disease Laboratory, which Hoffman, and Pete Bullock, all icons in Hatchery System. He probably is best later was renamed the National Fish the fish health field. known by most fish health scientists Health Research Laboratory and is As an expert in microbiology for his major contributions to fish now part of the US Geological Survey's and immunology, Cipriano was bacteriology. Leetown Science Now, as a member of the Fish Center. Health Branch of the Leetown The scientists within he man is a legend in fish Science Center, Cipriano investigates these laboratories persistent and emergent health issues greatly broadened Thealth, and, still, he will associated with genetics, pathogens, never say no to and environmental stressors that undermine conservation and Rocco “dancing” with a conversation restoration of interjurisdictional Al Dove’s daughter Lucy at populations, including depleted, Dr. Rocco Cipriano of the National the 2013 EFHW meeting in with a single threatened, or endangered fishes and Fish Health Research Laboratory in a Gettysburg. student. That aquatic organisms. moment of reflection on the Gerrtyburg Al Dove/Georgia Aquarium photo I know that is a mouthful, but that’s Battlefield. didn’t happen how all encompassing his job is. Al Dove/Georgia Aquarium photo
10 years ago, Research If you want to know anything about and still doesn’t Cipriano conducts integrated research why your fish are dying from the various to understand and solve emerging and species of Aeromonas or Flavobacteria, happen today. known disease problems affecting fish Cipriano is the expert to call or e-mail. and other aquatic resources. Or, just look him up on Google Scholar. —Esteban Soto I’ll give you a few examples. See FISH HEALTH, page 8
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 7 Continued from page 6 subjects such as immunology Fish Health and chemotherapy. “Perhaps as a result of its One of Cipriano’s focus areas has You also will find extension pieces breadth of subject, EFHW been the diseases of sea-run Atlantic such as Fish Disease Leaflets 66 and 68, attracts folks of broad vision salmon. His work has led to innovations two of the many easy-to-understand and diverse interests, and I in the management, treatment, and products written by Cipriano and his just love that,” Dove said. “I prevention of epizootics through colleagues at Leetown. He also co- always leave energized by the non-lethal detection of Aeromonas authored the Aeromonas chapter in the people I meet and the topics salmonicida, which has helped serve the well-known Fish Diseases and Disorders we discuss.” needs of hatchery managers working text by Patrick Woo and David Bruno. Organizing successful to restore native salmon to rivers in the meetings is a challenge that Northeast. Eastern Fish Heath Workshop not many scientists can pull Among the many manuscripts he Cipriano’s most visible and off. Cipriano has perfected has produced in this field, you will appreciated role has been in chairing and the art to the benefit of find a really cool paper documenting coordinating 22 of 28 meetings of the hundreds of fish health how the resident bacterial flora living annual Eastern Fish Health Workshop enthusiasts. Only this year in fish mucus changes prior to clinical (EFHW), including for the last 17 years did he turn over the running outbreaks of furunculosis and then in a row. of this event to six of his slowly re-colonizes the mucus with the Georgia Aquarium’s Director of younger colleagues/protégés, Dr. Rocco Cipriano speaking at the Third “normal” collection of non-harmful Research and Conservation Al Dove with Dove and Roy Yanong Bilateral Conference. microbes on the surviving fish. summed up the importance of Cipriano’s leading the charge. Rod Getchell photo effort this way. Said Yanong, “Whether “There’s a special it is connecting diverse scientists and Aquarium in Boston. Rocco sampling fish for conference every year other professionals to each other within “Rocco approached me to speak at the bacterial pathogens. that’s one of the best the US or across countries, Rocco’s EFHW. I have never looked back from Tom Loch/Michigan State University photo kept secrets in the fish inherent warmth, gregariousness, the day I accepted his offer and we began world,” he said. honesty, hospitality, inclusiveness, to forge a friendship and a professional Dove explained that high standards, and high integrity – relationship continuing for more than 12 the EFHW is a relatively most embodied through the EFHW years.” small event, involving ‘culture’ he has fostered – has forged Weber said that Cipriano not only usually around 100 lifelong friendships, connections, stresses sound science at these meetings, people, which means and collaborations among otherwise but also constantly evolves the EFHW that those who attend disparate people and groups. program to include new and emerging can spend quality time “Rocco’s foundational culture of issues. with their colleagues. hospitality, equality, and integration “Most importantly,” said Weber, “he The workshop covers is something we all strive to emulate,” spends most of his time creating new a great diversity of Yanong continued. “Those of us who relationships with people. He provides topics, including: fish are attempting to take over Rocco’s reins advice and mentoring, and always is health in aquaculture at EFHW know that, if we can retain there to listen.” and wild fisheries; even a tenth of his ‘cultural essence,’ we As an extension of the EFHW, coral health on reefs; will have been wildly successful.” Cipriano also organized three bilateral aquarium animal conferences between the US and Russia, health; and crustacean Life-long friendships further fostering the aquatic animal health. It also features Scott Weber first met Cipriano back health community. Weber said he felt mollusk sessions, as well in early 2001, while working as the greatly honored when he was asked to as thematic sessions on head veterinarian at the New England participate in the last meeting, which was held in 2009. “This truly was two weeks of one of It’s Not Fast Food — It’s Great Food Fast! greatest collaborations in aquatic animal health, fostering a cultural and scientific exchange unparalleled,” he said. Weber described a recent visit with Cipriano, during which they talked about everything under the sun, though, most notably, not much of the conversation was about work. “When I got up to leave, he told me how great this visit made him feel,” Weber said. “And, that was the best gift Rocco could ever give me.” Many colleagues Esteban Soto, assistant professor of bacteriology and mycology at Ross University’s School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts, first met Cipriano When you order feed, you want it formulate custom diets for all in 2005 during AQUAVET® in Woods fast — without sacrificing quality. species — cold water, warm water, Hole, MA. You can be certain that when you floating feeds, or sinking feeds. TM Aquaculture Feeds Division “Rocco gave a great lecture about order your custom diet from Rangen, There’s no cutting corners, so you’ll www.rangen.com coldwater fish bacteria. I kept asking your shipment will be delivered never have to worry about getting all sort of questions in my Spanglish, promptly and to your exact fast food... just great food fast. (800) 657-6446 Idaho (800) 272-6436 Texas and Rocco gracefully answered them specifications. At Rangen, we (208) 543-4698 Fax (979) 849-6943 Fax with patience,” Soto said. “I could easily see the great love for science and
8 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 absolute devotion to teaching that he had. Since that day I have admired and respected this man.” Soto went on to say that one of the beauties of Cipriano’s personality is “humility,” which he transmits to everyone attending Tom Loch and Rocco at work in the field. the EFHW. Photo courtesy of Tom Loch/MSU Above, Rocco surrounded by Russian colleagues at the Third Bilateral “The man is Conference between the US and Russia. a legend in fish Rod Getchell photo health, and, still, he will never say no to Edward Island’s Atlantic Veterinary experts alike is unparalleled. Last word a conversation with a single student,” he College, said he could not think of a “But what stands out most to me,” Solving numerous fish health said. “That didn’t happen 10 years ago, single person or event that has been Loch continued, “is the passion and quandaries is obviously a role and still doesn’t happen today.” more instrumental in his scientific diligence that is engrained in everything Cipriano relishes. When he makes Paul Bowser, head of the Aquatic career than Rocco Cipriano and the that Rocco does. As a result, I have no a presentation describing his latest Animal Health Program at Cornell EFHW. problem overlooking that he’s a Yankees investigations, I am on the edge of University, first met Cipriano at the 3rd “Rocco’s mentorship and, more fan.” my seat scribbling notes as fast as I Eastern Fish Disease Workshop held in importantly, his friendship, have opened Cornell researcher Emily Cornwell can. He has always been at the cutting 1978 in Auburn, AL. many opportunities to me that I can emphasized Cipriano’s unique ability edge. “Since that time, I have considered never repay,” he said. to see promising developments in If you have read this far, you will him to be one of my most valued Thomas Loch, a post-doctoral other fields and combine them with a now know why I, and many others, colleagues and friends,” Bowser said. associate at Michigan State University, thorough grounding in the history of admire Dr. Rocco Cipriano. “We have worked on several cooperative expressed similar sentiments. fish health research to ask intriguing Thanks for reading Fish Health efforts over the years and those “Rocco is a truly great friend, mentor, questions that the rest of us haven’t Notes. interactions have always been productive and collaborator,” he said. thought of yet. as well as a pleasure.” “His elegantly conducted research is “He helped to create the collaborative Dr. Rod Getchell works in the Aside from his own PhD supervisor, highly regarded, and his ability to foster community of fish health researchers Aquatic Animal Health Program Mark Fast, the Novartis Research Chair lasting relationships amongst up-and- that exists today,” she added, referring to at the Cornell University College of in Fish Health at the University of Prince coming scientists and world-renowned Cipriano’s role in organizing the EFHW. Veterinary Medicine.
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 9 Introduction, overview of Florida aquaculture Diverse industry, strong support network, natural advantages combine to create climate for growth FLORIDA AQUACUTURE FOCUS
he strength and vitality of Florida reported $68.7 million in farmgate sales. aquaculture originates from Florida aquaculturists utilize Tthe diversity of farmed species, production systems that include ponds, hard-working farmers, favorable climate, indoor and outdoor tanks, indoor excellent science and technical resources, tank systems that clean and recirculate and a proactive state government. production water, and approximately The composition of Florida 2,200 acres of coastal waters leased for aquaculture surprises people due to the molluscan or live rock culture from the Early morning aeration is key to catfish farming in sunny Florida. diversity of species, production systems, state of Florida. FDACS photos and markets. These systems are used to produce a wide variety of animals or plants for million – consisting of freshwater or shrimp sold to the aquarium or water A $69 million industry ornamental, food or miscellaneous marine animals and plants that included garden markets. A voluntary 2012 production survey markets. freshwater tropical fish, koi, crayfish or Sales of aquaculture products for completed by 404 of 686 aquafarms Ornamental sales totaled $35.5 marine fish, corals, live rock, snails, and human consumption totaled $24.1 million and included freshwater or marine fish, clams, oysters, shrimp, prawns, alligators, and turtles. The balance of the farms produced animals or plants for bait, pond stocking, exotic leather, wetland restoration or mitigation, or environmental testing +CHHC?2;HEM+CHHC?2;HEM +;HS2;HEM +;HS2;HEM markets. (Minnows, Fry, etc.) (Polytanks) (Lots and Lots) (Polytanks) Family farms are key Boy, have we got tanks! All By and large, Florida aquafarms are shapes and sizes. With stands small, family-owned operations. or self-supported. Filter tanks During the 2012 survey 402 operations reported 765 unpaid and drain kits too. and very workers (typically family members or inexpensive. If we don’t have partners) and 93% of the 686 farms it — we can make it. Give us reporting using 20 water acres or less for Conical or Flat-Bottom Cylindrical Tanks, and a call, or visit us on-line at production. Rectangular Tanks available in many sizes However, small does not mean that www.polytankco.com Semi-Square Tanks 4 sizes available they are unimportant or economically insignificant. Recognition of aquaculture’s Conical Bottom Tanks economic importance to rural inland from 250 up to 1,500 and coastal communities and farmer-led gallons politicking has resulted in significant 62824 250th Street (320) 693-8370 state government level services related to regulations and extension and research. Litchfield, MN 55355 1-800-328-7659
10 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 Florida alligator farmers favor heavily insulated, individual growout houses that maintain a warm environment to speed up growth. FDACS photo
High intensity lighting is required for the indoor culture of live corals in tank systems. FDACS photo
Tilapia for the live or iced wholefish market do just fine in a converted Phytoplankton culture tanks are universal to Florida clam and oyster poultry barn that contains very simple concrete block tanks or raceways. hatcheries. FDACS photo FDACS photo
Supportive services state waters for marine fish and shellfish government or federal regulatory the laboratory to the farm. In Florida, aquaculture is agriculture aquaculture. conflict. The University of Florida administers and is regulated as such. This office also holds a programmatic three applied aquaculture research and The Florida Dept. of Agriculture general permit for marine aquaculture Strong academic sector extension centers: and Consumer Services, Division from the US Army Corps of Engineers Florida’s aquafarming community ● Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory of Aquaculture
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 11 Warm, phytoplankton-rich coastal waters are perfect for clam and oyster farming. FDACS photo
Continued from previous page Florida Aquaculture Coastal submerged land is also leased by the state of Florida to culture live rock. ● Indian River Aquaculture Research Miami
12 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 These marketing outlets also carry fewer species and varieties of fish, making it more difficult for small farms to find a niche in the market. Freshwater ornamentals At the same time this consolidation was occurring, there also was a major Oldest, largest, most diverse land buying boom in Florida that bought large chunks of agricultural land in the state, especially near “service corridors.” segment of Florida aquaculture Ornamental fish farms that were strategically developed near the interstates (to make getting their product to the airport easy) were also prime development sites for homes. While prices for land are stabilizing, the other impact of the land boom has been the tremendous capital investment needed today to start up a farm from scratch. But perhaps the largest challenge to Florida farms has always been, and continues to be, foreign competition, especially from Southeast Asia and China. Most farms in Florida FLORIDA still employ time-proven methods of outdoor An aerial view of freshwater ornamental farms in Florida's Hillsborough AQUACUTURE pond production, but County. FOCUS the management has UF/IFAS/Craig Watson photo steadily improved. Pond aeration is now standard, and new technologies are being deployed to he freshwater ornamental disastrous to tropical fish out in ponds. that things have leveled off and the improve dissolved gases. industry is the oldest, most A particularly bad first week of January, industry is becoming more stable. Feed formulations are one of the Tdiverse, and largest segment of 2010 killed 80% of the fish. Over the past 10 years there have been biggest changes in today’s production Florida aquaculture. But for domestic production, Florida a series of drastic changes that have led versus 20 years ago, with several major With roots dating back into the late is the hands-down best place to grow to this decrease in sales and farms. feed companies constantly producing 1920s, the state’s freshwater ornamental tropical fish in the continental US. Perhaps the greatest change has been better diets for both indoor and pond farmers have survived many changes Not only tropical species, but the consolidation of the market at the production. and challenges. temperate species like goldfish and retail, wholesale, and inevitably, the Pond covers that protect the fish from Today they operate some of the koi are also a major part of Florida’s production level. winter freeze events are also much more most sophisticated farms in the nation, industry, with several producers Today the majority of freshwater standard. If a structure is used, it is also producing some 400-600 varieties of concentrating on producing “high end” ornamental fish are sold at large easier for farmers to put up netting to fish for aquariums and outdoor garden varieties and color morphs. retail stores who often have their protect against birds and other predators ponds. Florida is also flat, with a shallow own distribution centers, which has in the spring and summer. Florida is the natural home for this water table, so pond construction eliminated many family owned pet shops In the hatchery, Florida’s farmers industry in the US, as most of the fish involves digging a hole and letting it fill and regional wholesalers. employ the latest technology available are tropical species that don’t do well up. This has led to farms in Florida for spawning and larval rearing. when it gets cold. The industry has seen some shrinkage producing for this market, with a smaller Working closely with University Even in the Sunshine State there in the number of operations and total number of wholesalers in the state of Florida (UF) scientists and others, are periodic freeze events that are farm-gate value, but currently it appears supplying them. See FRESHWATER ORNAMENTALS, next page
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 13 A hi-fin sunset variatus. A beautiful African cichlid. Harry Grier/Florida Tropical Fish Farm Association photo Harry Grier/Florida Tropical Fish Farm Association photo
Freshwater ornamentals sometimes be huge failures for food information and new technologies. production, the value of ornamentals Freshwater ornamental production Continued from previous page Even though Florida has the best makes the costs worth it. in Florida is a dynamic and exciting Florida is constantly developing climate for growing fish outdoors, Indoor production is used primarily field that dates back to the era of reproductive strategies for new species indoor recirculating systems have proven for species and varieties that have very steamships and trains, and through and varieties of fish. themselves here like nowhere else in specific water quality requirements, time has become a jewel in our nation’s The complexity of operating a major aquaculture. are difficult to raise in outdoor ponds aquaculture industry. Florida ornamental hatchery – often Aquarium fish are sold by the piece, for a variety of reasons, or simply The management requirements times employing thousands of tanks not by the pound, but it would be hard to lend themselves well to high density and complexity of the trade make it a which are set up and emptied weekly – is find an aquatic product worth more by production and large volume sales. difficult field to enter today, but Florida’s an exercise in management not for the weight than ornamental fish. Florida’s farms are quick studies farms are constantly adapting to meet faint of heart. So, while recirculating systems can that are very good at “mining” for the challenge. ■
14 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 Marine ornamental fi sh, invertebrates, corals Florida leads shift from wild harvest to cultured trade
ince the beginning, the marine The trade A Florida farm- aquarium trade has relied primarily routinely includes raised black ice. on capture fisheries for its supply. over 2,000 species, S ORA Inc. photo In the ornamental trade, an estimated so 100 is just a FLORIDA 95% of the freshwater fish come from fraction of the farms, but on the marine side the market. AQUACUTURE number can be flipped – about 95% In the last few A are still coming from the reefs of the years, there have FOCUS tropics. been significant However, big changes are occurring. breakthroughs in marine finfish culture, See MARINE ORNAMENTALS, next page Fish In the 1960s, Frank Hoff, Martin Moe, and others pioneered the a nutreco company production of clown fish. Even though production was possible, farms were unable to compete with the low cost of imported specimens from Photo: Getty Images the Philippines and Indonesia, and for a long time captive production was limited to hobbyist and start-ups that did not survive for very long. It was not until the 1990s that production technologies improved to increase growth and survival, and commercial farms started becoming Balancing the viable. With profit came investment in new intricate world
Red and blue mandarins. ORA Inc. photo species, and today in addition to all the clown fish, there are almost 100 species of fish in production at some level, including angelfish, seahorses, dotty backs, and gobies. On the clown fish side, the inevitable color varieties also started appearing in hatcheries, and today Florida and others are producing fish that have no wild counterpart to compete with. These “designer” clowns can capture a very hefty price per fish, especially until someone else starts TM breeding them (also an inevitable fact of MicroBalance takes the evolution of fish feed one step further the industry). Intensive research has revealed new knowledge of micro-nutrients and how they interact in Despite all this, success was still the fish. By balancing the micro-nutrients we are able to introduce a raw material flexibility never limited to species that have relatively seen before. At the same time feed performance, fish welfare and quality are maintained at large eggs and/or some sort of parental optimal levels. Balancing fish nutrition for a sustainable future. www.skretting.com care during the early life stages, which translated into being able to feed traditional food items like rotifers and artemia.
FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 15 Planting corals on a reef. Marine ornamentals Coral Restoration Foundation Inc. photo Continued from previous page lease sites, producers deploy land- and these advances are being put into based limestone which can be easily play with some of the pelagic spawning distinguished from the “wild” rock when marine ornamentals. harvested. Fish like the mandarin goby are a Some producers have gone an extra great example of something that just a step, creating “value added” live rock. few decades ago was only available from After being well seasoned and covered the wild. with native species, the rock is brought Research supported by the onto land-based farms and “seeded” Association of Zoos and Aquariums with more expensive, Indo Pacific and the Seaworld Busch Gardens invertebrates, such as polyp corals, or Conservation Fund is underway to anemones. increase the number of species available Live rock serves as the base for a reef from farms, and Florida is in the lead in tank, but it is the other invertebrates, that effort. both hard and soft “corals” which give them their “bling”. Invertebrates, rocks, plants Culture of most of these involve The marine aquarium hobby was fragmentation or “budding” to create revolutionized sometime around new material, and these farms look 1980 when people discovered that if much like plant nurseries with shallow they made just a few changes in their tanks full of racks of invertebrates being filtration and lighting, they could not cultured. only do a better job of keeping fish, Many have symbiotic alga associated they also could keep a wide variety of with their tissues, so the greenhouses or An underwater view of a other organisms in their home lighted systems add even more to this coral nursery. aquaria. image of a nursery. Coral Restoration Foundation Inc. photo Florida’s farms have taken full Trends in this segment of Florida’s advantage of this growing trade. production show some of the sharpest Live rock is porous limestone that increases, especially in the number of is covered with microorganisms, algae, certified producers. and invertebrates, and serves as the Today, one can set up an absolutely foundation for marine reef aquariums. stunning reef display, and every Not only does the rock contain invertebrate in it will be from a Florida things that are interesting to look at, like farm. feather duster worms, it also is home to bacteria that serve as the biological filter Restoration corals in an aquarium. Coral reefs are suffering on a global Collection of “wild” live rock was scale from a wide variety of stressors, banned in state waters in 1989, federal and especially in Florida. waters of the Atlantic in 1996, and in The state has experienced dramatic federal waters of the Gulf in 1997. declines in the coverage of live coral on Florida aquaculture stepped right in. its shallow reefs. Using federal and state water bottom Enter aquaculture. Using offshore lease sites, flow- through tanks along the coast, and even greenhouses inland, corals are being produced for restoration. This year just one operation alone expects to “plant” some 30,000 colonies of staghorn coral (Acropora cervicornis) in waters off the Florida Keys. Early studies have demonstrated that there is no significant difference bet ween survival and growth of corals produced in different situations, from open water to land-locked greenhouses, which has encouraged more efforts to expand this unique aspect of Florida’s aquaculture. Because these corals are heavily regulated, there has not been a good method for creating a “commercial” enterprise, but one never knows what may lie ahead. In a nutshell, on the marine side of things, Florida has shown that there are indeed profitable and/or beneficial production opportunities, and as research continues it is safe to say this segment of the industry will only increase in size and scope. ■
16 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 Shellfi sh aquaculture Florida hard clam farming industry a unique success story nlike the ornamental industry, shellfish aquaculture is a Urelatively new pursuit in Florida. A Florida work skiff designed Yet, in just over three decades, hard for clamming with tumbler clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) represent and grader located on the the single, most important aquacultured boat. Note the skiff features food item produced by Florida’s aquatic an open transom and roller rig growers. which facilitates planting and This industry traces its beginnings to harvesting of clam bags. the Indian River lagoon along the east USDA Rural Development photo central coast. During the 1980s, unreliable sets of hard clams prompted harvesters Over 100,000 to investigate seed clams aquaculture as an are contained alternative to fishing in this silo, or natural stocks. FLORIDA weller, at a This transition QUACUTURE nursery facility. was facilitated by AQUACUTURE Eric Zamora photo research conducted FOCUS at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution (HBOI), in which traditional culture techniques success on Florida’s west coast – creating means of economic their economic, used in the Northeast were modified for jobs, producing incomes, and providing growth for rural resource Florida’s subtropical, subtidal conditions. recognition to the region’s ability to be communities. management, The method used by the majority of a national leader in the production of Over 300 and food clam growers in Florida is the bottom aquacultured shellfish. program graduates production bag, which is made of a polyester mesh Expanding employment were placed onto shellfish aquaculture interests to promote aquaculture material. opportunities for the Florida fishing leases of 2-4 acres, the first leases to be production by leasing state-owned The bag contains the clams in both industry affected by increasing approved along the Gulf of Mexico coast. submerged lands and water columns. field nursery and growout culture stages, regulations was the focus of federally- The state’s progressive leasing Florida’s warm waters and high providing predator protection as well as funded job retraining programs. program, administered by the Florida natural productivity levels create serving as the harvest device. These community-based programs Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer a superb environment for growing Since the early 1990s, hard clam provided the infrastructure for Services (FDACS), was the result of molluscan shellfish. culture has been on the fast track to introducing shellfish aquaculture as a the Florida legislature declaring it is in See SHELLFISH AQUACULTURE, next page
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 17 Shellfish aquaculture Continued from previous page equipment manufacturers, and boat Hard clam growth is almost year- builders – have all flourished. round with a crop period of less than A University of Florida (UF) study two years realized. conducted in 2007 (currently being Seed are planted throughout the year, updated for 2012) estimated that sales of allowing for continuous availability of cultured hard clams added $53 million market-size clams. a year into the state’s economy and This combination has allowed the supported over 600 jobs. industry to rapidly expand and attain The hard clam culture industry has national market share. brought economic revitalization to many Florida clams are served at traditional fishery-dependent communities with clam bakes in the Northeast, high-end a second generation of farmers now restaurants in California, and buffets at making a living on the water. Las Vegas casinos, as well as being sold at Yet, over the past five years, the national club stores and grocery chains. industry has been faced with increasing Today, about 245 Florida growers in challenges. Harvesting clams from a shellfish aquaculture lease area (markers in small-scale businesses produce millions Although none of the shellfish background). If the harvest is successful, the contents of a polyester mesh of hard clams on 1,100 acres in 12 coastal harvest areas in Florida were closed growing bag will fill a bushel basket. counties. due to the presence of oil from the Carlton Ward Jr. photo In addition, 8-10 hatcheries produce Deepwater Horizon spill in 2010, buyers over a half billon seed annually, 45 and consumers perceived that seafood shellfish wholesalers process and ship from the Gulf of Mexico was not safe. clams, and other spin-off businesses – Further, harmful algal blooms – in including suppliers who sew the bags, particular the red tide Karenia brevis – have caused prolonged Harvesting clams harvest closures from aquaculture in some growing leases located in the areas of the state shallow waters of and market the Gulf of Mexico disruptions. off the island community of Farmgate prices for hard Cedar Key. This land-based nursery, known as the “clam condos,” uses raceways clams, which are University of Florida IFAS photo on an aquaculture dock to rear millions of clams under semi-controlled sold primarily in conditions to a field planting size of about 6 mm. the commodities Eric Zamora photo market, are at an all-time low. production costs, for example fuel, profit developing farming technology and The margins have become slimmer. markets for other bivalve species could prolonged In response, several firms are adding also increase economic stability and economic post-harvest processing options, such as growth. recession is in purging or freezing, to their product line Currently, the sunray venus part to blame. to increase value. (Macrocallista nimbosa), a native venerid With higher Diversifying the industry by clam, is being investigated by UF and
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18 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 HBOI research and extension faculty along with industry sectors for culture and market potential. Recent oyster fishery failures experienced in the Gulf of Mexico region has stirred renewed interest in oyster culture. This summer, the Florida governor and his cabinet approved several growers’ requests for use of the full water column to accommodate off-bottom and floating oyster culture systems. In addition to providing food and jobs, shellfish aquaculture is good for the environment – by providing ecosystems services – a claim few other farming efforts can justify making. Clam farming demands the highest Farm-raised Florida clams. quality of water, creating positive impacts FDACS photo on land-use regulations. For example, citizens of the island community of Cedar Key, which produces about 70% of Florida’s clams, have worked together to protect the waters vital to the success of their commercial ventures. An attractive attribute of the sunray venus Every septic tank has been eliminated, clam, along with its dense white meat, is the along with improved wastewater and shell turns a orange-pinkish color when cooked. stormwater treatment systems, acquisition University of Florida IFAS photo and preservation of critical coastal properties, and adoption of a water-based ethic. As long as coastal waters remain clean and people continue to enjoy high quality seafood products, the shellfish aquaculture industry in Florida should continue to prosper … a success story unlike any other in the state. ■ Above, the sunray venus clam, a native bivalve, is being considered as a potential aquaculture candidate to diversify the hard clam culture industry. University of Florida IFAS photo
Left, cooked Florida farm-raised clams are a nutritious seafood Harvested clams in baskets are being prepared for product. processing and shipping. Eric Zamora photo Eric Zamora photo
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 19 Reptile farming Alligator, turtle production strong and growing in Florida eptile farming is one of the Florida triggered around 14 months most exotic sectors of Florida the development when they are Raquaculture, often involving rare of special rules by harvested. and beautiful animals. the US Fish and Products include Florida’s first alligator farm opened Wildlife Service to raw hides sold in 1893 and the continuous commercial allow production to international production of alligators in Louisiana and after the American fashion markets, a alligator was variety of meat cuts, listed in 1967 and hatchlings for Advanced Aquaculture Systems, Inc. under the then- growout at other TM new Endangered facilities. PERMA-BEADS Species Act (ESA). Also on the rise Alligator farming is an $8 million REPLACE SAND IN ANY SAND FILTER! This farming are turtle farms, activity annual industry in Florida and growing. increasing from 5 contributed to FDACS photo farms and $222,000 Perma-Bead™ Media the delisting of in sales in 2005 to 28 t FMJNJOBUFDMPHHJOH the American alligator from the ESA in reported $8.0 million LORIDA producers and $1.2 channeling and compaction 1987. in sales of alligator F million in sales in in all sand filters Reptile farming in Florida has products in 2012, 2012. expanded from the production of compared to $4.1 AQUACUTURE The increase in t OFWFSOFFESFQMBDJOH alligators, soft shell turtles and snapping million in 2005. FOCUS turtle farming may turtles, to reptiles from all over the Most farms have be attributed to the t BSFFBTZUPJOTUBMM world – including very rare species like broodstock onsite to produce eggs but FWC closure of all native, wild turtle t OFFEOPQMVNCJOHDIBOHFT the Cuban crocodile and the painted augment their stock by participating in harvesting for commercial use in Florida terrapin. egg and hatchling collection programs in 2009. t SFEVDFNBJOUFOBODFUJNF Florida’s fourteen alligator farms on public and private lands. A large portion of native turtles sold The public lands collections from Florida was wild harvest prior to t QSPWJEFTVQFSCXBUFS are run by the Florida Fish 2009, thus the closure transformed many quality and water usage and Wildlife Conservation turtle fishermen into turtle farmers. Commission (FWC) in t IBWFCFFOJODPOUJOVPVT Also, as a result of the rule change, cooperation with licensed use for over 20 years in turtle farms must rely on current alligator farmers. thousands of filters broodstock, purchase broodstock from Eggs from this collection are other existing farms, or purchase legally sold to licensed alligator farms collected turtles from other states. and the proceeds from sales are The turtle farming industry is Perma-Bead™ used to fund alligator research at divided into food production and Water Filtration Systems FWC and the Florida Alligator animals destined for the pet trade. Marketing and Education There are over 100 species of native Advisory Committee. and exotic turtles cultured in Florida. ARE CUSTOM FWC implements a similarly Almost all turtles native to Florida DESIGNED FOR structured hatchling collection are cultured and aquaculturists have This is the only albino Florida redbelly program. diversified their farm products to YOUR turtle known to exist. He is on loan to Dark PROJECTS! Eggs are held in incubators include a wide array of non-native, Hammock Turtles from Clive Longden in a until hatching then hatchlings unusual species, and aberrant color joint breeding effort. are raised in hothouses for morphs in high demand, to expand their FDACS photo t Preassembled, compact, available products. Turtle eggs are collected from skid-mounted systems with constructed laying areas, washed and automatic backwash, ultra incubated for around 60 days until violet sterilizers, variable hatching. speed pumps and many Hatchlings are typically shipped other available options. shortly after hatching. Turtles intended for the food market t Minimize your install costs include soft shells and snapping with our “Plug & Play” system. turtles and are sold as eggs, hatchlings, juveniles, or adults. The majority of turtles produced in Florida are exported to China for further Call for a quote today! growout, consumption, or the pet trade. t'3&&System Design As the pressures on wild reptile t'3&& Technical Support populations continue to increase, the importance and impact of aquaculture grow more critical. Advanced Aquaculture Systems, Inc. Many turtle species in culture are rare 4509 Hickory Creek Lane and some have been virtually extirpated Brandon, FL 33511 from their native range so it is vital that Toll Free: 800-994-7599 aquaculturists unlock the secrets to www.perma-bead.com breeding and raising rare animals to aid [email protected] conservation efforts. ■
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 21 two main groups: “bunch” plants, and rooted. Bunch plants are usually those that Aquatic plants can be grown easily from cuttings, but also include some Serving aquarium, water garden, LORIDA of the “grasses” (not truly FLORIDA grasses) like Sagittaria and Vallisneria. wetland restoration needs AQUACUTURE Producers will harvest half FOCUS a dozen or so and bunch them together. Rooted plants are sold either bare root or in containers, and include such plants as Cryptocoryne sp., Anubias sp., and Echinodorus sp. In the late 1980s there was a major shift in production of many of these rooted species when nurseries started growing them in their emergent forms in greenhouses. This allowed for the use of modern horticulture practices like fertigation and tissue culture to be employed, and has resulted in a product that is easier to handle and market. North America is the main market Water lilies being grown in a Florida for the aquarium trade in the world, nursery. and planted freshwater aquariums have Brandon McLane/Florida Aquatic Nurseries photo grown in popularity. Many hobbyists today are just as interested if not more, in the plants they grow, versus the fish they keep. Often othing completes an aquarium plants to do a good job. Add to this hundreds of exotic species the choice of fish is based on whether or garden pond like a variety Florida’s aquaculture industry that can be readily adapted to captive they will eat the plants or not. Nof beautiful aquatic plants, includes a segment that caters to both of culture in the state, and the aquatic Like the tropical fish industry, and wetland restoration and mitigation these markets. plant industry has not only survived, but aquarium plants are tropical in nature, projects require massive amounts of The earliest tropical fish farms in flourished. which gives Florida a competitive the state also produced and sold aquatic While some wild collection still advantage in production in the US. plants, many of them collected from the occurs, in the 1990s the state began to They are also marketed through the FISH FARM FOR LEASE rivers, streams, and lakes of Florida. shift its focus to aquaculture for most same channels as fish, and therefore it is With hundreds of springs, thousands native plants as well. common to have fish and plants together of lakes, and several sizeable rivers – all In the ornamental market, there in the same shipment. located in a subtropical climate – the are submersed, floating, and emergent The other market for ornamental state is home to many native plants that plants. plants is for garden ponds. are highly marketable for all of the above For aquariums, most of these are This is where water lilies dominate, mentioned markets. submersed, which are divided into but Florida also produces a very wide
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22 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 You get some sense of the scope of the aquatic plant farming industry in Florida from this look inside a greehouse at a plant nursery. Brandon McLane/Florida Aquatic Nurseries photo
An aquarium nicely populated with a selection of aquatic plants. Pierre LePochat/WaterScapes Aquatic Plant Nursery photo variety of floating and emergent Water lilies have been in captive supply for these uses came from the root, quart, gallon, 3-gallon containers, ornamentals. culture for a long time, and there is wild, but today almost everything used etc. Many of these plants are sold as a constant effort by serious breeders for these purposes is coming from a These farms often work closely with “annuals” as they do not overwinter in to create new varieties, often times dynamic aquatic nursery sector. wetland and environmental engineering northern climates. associated with national and/or global Projects vary between a small companies to target their production to From a management standpoint, competitions. retention pond in a neighborhood, to fulfill the needs of development. this presents a constant challenge to The other area of aquatic plant hundreds of acres associated with a As the demand for planted Florida producers as they try to predict production is wetland restoration, wetland restoration site. aquariums, water garden ponds, and their market potential each spring, retention ponds, and mitigation sites Many of these plants are grown using wetland restoration increase, so will the performing a balancing act between using primarily native plants. traditional horticulture practices, and demand for this segment of Florida’s meeting demand without overproducing. As recently as the 1980s most of the are marketed similarly. That is, as bare aquaculture industry. ■ Insulated Containers
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 23 A quick tour around the Sunshine State Farms, folks, facilities: the bedrock of Florida aquacuture
or this special Focus on Florida Their hands- managing stress and minimizing disease Aquaculture issue of Fish Farming on experience in issues. FNews, FFN roving columnist Bob aquaculture dates Aquasafra’s customer base extends Robinson traveled to the Sunshine State back to the late FROM THE FIELD across a broad region, but Mike said a to look in on several farms and facilities 1970s when both large and growing market is developing for this month’s From the Field report. served stints in BY BOB ROBINSON close to home – specifically in and While by no means a comprehensive the Peace Corps – Mike in Ghana around the Miami area. review of food fish and gamefish and Jim in Costa Rica. They are mostly ethnic – markets across the US. Mike said a new wave of producers, production in the state, his overview both a little older and grayer now, A large part of the company’s success primarily Cuban-Americans, have come does provide a great snapshot look but neither has lost the fire that is based on its 20-year reputation for online in the past three years or so and at some of the people who are key to first sparked their interest in providing fry and fingerlings that thrive could, if present growth rates continue, Florida aquaculture and the diversity of aquaculture. in intensive aquaculture systems which develop a 5 million-pound-plus industry the industry there. –Editor The Aquasafra hatchery employs demand a hardy fish. in South Florida. culturing techniques to produce a Mike said Aquasafra has been Production systems, Mike said, are Aquasafra nilotica-aurea hybrid that is white in successful at selecting and breeding fish typically modified RAS set-ups using Tilapia fry and fingerling producer color. Mike said this hybridization is that achieve strong growth rates green water in tanks, raceways, and lined Located in Bradenton – on the state’s key to producing an attractive, healthy, in intensive systems while also ponds. west coast between Sarasota and St. market-sized The climate is right for outdoor Petersburg – Aquasafra is the result of a fish that is production and Mike said this is successful 20-year partnership between highly sought allowing South Florida producers to Mike Picchietti and Jim Riggin. after in live – keep their growout costs down and compete aggressively with producers in other regions. This, he said, is having a major
Above, the Aquasafra hatchery provides producers with a hardy nilotica-aurea hybrid fish that does well in intensive systems and is white in color, popular in ethnic live fish markets.
At left, Aquasafra’s Mike Picchietti, left, and Jim Riggin. Ron and June Slay of Florida Fish Farms. Bob Robinson photos Bob Robinson photo
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24 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 regulations and the never-ending challenge of just simply trying to make a dollar at the end of the day. To survive as a fish farmer Ron says you have to be ready to deal with the challenges you expect – like issues with Manufacturer of Aquaculture Tanks hired help and pesky predators – while www.aquacutluretanks.com dealing with the ones you can’t predict or plan for. … Like fish dying at 4:30 in the morning when you are in the midst of spawning grass carp or bass. … Or, finding out that a load of hybrid striped bass going to Israel has missed a connecting flight and the fish will now die from lack of oxygen. If he had to do it all over again Ron admits that he would probably focus more on recirculating aquaculture. The sign at the entrance to Dugan Whiteside’s property Fish that are currently raised on his harkens back to the farm’s origins. Dugan started the 35-acre farm include triploid grass carp, business growing eels but switched over to hybrid striped bass Florida largemouth bass, bluegills, redear production several years ago. sunfish, channel catfish, and koi. Bob Robinson photo Challenges notwithstanding, Ron has mostly good things to say about fish impact on live tilapia prices and markets across the US. farming in the Sunshine State. Mike, of course, is well known to many around “We have been blessed with a great Dept. of the industry as the former US face of Regal Springs Agriculture (FDACS) and with good APHIS people – a leading global producer of tilapia, with farms in (USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) Indonesia and Honduras. within the state of Florida. He retired from Regal Springs a few years ago to “They know they are here to help, and actually do focus more attention on Aquasafra and to free up his help.” time to build a tilapia hatchery in Haiti with Operation Also key to Ron’s success is a patient wife and his Blessing. burning passion for what he does. His straight-talking Mike spends one week each month in Haiti helping approach has earned him many friends, and no doubt oversee the hatchery that is currently producing about a few critics, over the years. 400,000 tilapia fingerlings monthly. I, for one, am proud to have counted Ron as a The fish are grown out in lakes and fish ponds in treasured friend for more than 20 years and was happy Haiti to provide badly needed jobs and a locally grown to have the chance to visit him and June again for this food source. report. For more information on the hatchery visit
FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 25 From the Field
Continued from previous page from Keo Fish Farms, Dugan is able to primary production is hybrid striped produce a 2-pound market-sized fish in bass (HSB). about 18 months. Another fish farming survivor, During growout his fish are fed a Dugan’s education includes both diet of 46% protein and 10% fat in an bachelors and masters degrees in extruded floating pellet. oceanography. Production at Anguilla is in above- His first job was with the Virginia ground tanks, using a pass-through Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) system with settling and water treatment where his work involved clams and in the final stages. This requires scallops. Dugan to have and operate under the Somewhere along the way, Dugan restrictions of a National Pollutant developed an interest in glass eels and, in Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 1980, went into business with his father permit from the US Environmental farming black eels in Florida. Protection Agency (EPA). Eel farming actually was more like eel Three production parameters he ranching and was highly dependent on a needs to monitor carefully to not violate supply of wild product harvested by local the permit include: unionized ammonia; fishermen. dissolved oxygen (DO); and a slight Catch rates were in steady decline for salinity (relating to well intake depth) in Here's a good look at the growout tanks at Sunshiners. You’ll see that a decade (1987-97) and in 1998 Dugan his incoming water supply. they’re outdoors under a cover of shadecloth. decided to diversify into hybrid striped Dugan’s market is mostly for fish on Bob Robinson photo bass. By 2000 he was totally out of ice, serving customers from Miami to the eel production business and fully Montreal. customers who appreciate the quality Kurstan comes by fish farming dedicated to HSB. He likes being his own boss and product he provides. They often tell him naturally – his father was Dugan’s right- Growing out HSB fry/fingerlings hearing positive feedback from those are the best fish they’ve ever had. hand man at Anguilla for many years Dugan said he struggles to find before passing away. quality people willing to work at a wage Sunshiners raises its fish in round that allows the farm to remain profitable. tanks, outdoors under shade cloth. Each And, like other fish farmers, he spends tank holds roughly 1,700 gallons of water lots of time dealing with cumbersome and will support approximately 800 fish rules and regulations. – or up to 1,200 pounds of production All in all though, Dugan said the per tank. positives outweigh the hardships and Oxygen is supplied by an air blower he’s clearly not about to quit farming fish system using 9" airstones supplied by anytime soon. Aquatic Eco-Systems. The goal with For more information call the farm at aeration is to maintain 5 ppm or better (904) 692-1050. dissolved oxygen (DO). Production water is pumped all Sunshiners throughout the property and 90% is I thought this Hybrid striped bass recirculated back into the system after was interesting Just a short drive south of Anguilla it has been treated onsite in the farm’s – the unique Fish Farms lies another hybrid striped settling area. airstone set- bass farm, Sunshiners. Both the pumps and air system are up used at Run by Kurstan Noles for owner backed up by five propane generators at Sunshiners. Charles Lane, this farm (as the name 75kw each. Bob Robinson photo indicates) initially focused on raising Kurstan has about a 25-minute golden shiners for the baitfish market. window to deal with a power outage
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26 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 when his fish are Gene and Marilyn at market size. Evans with their black lab, So, the back-up Blue, named after beluga generators are on sturgeon. a sensor to come Bob Robinson photo on when the power drops – which can happen frequently They also raise tilapia in during summer ponds as a tool to keep algae thunderstorms in under control and sell those Florida. fish as well. The largest cost Sturgeon production tanks of production on are made of concrete and, this farm is energy coincidentally, Gene also input, Kurstan said. owns a concrete business. No This sign marks the entrance to the Evans Fish are fed once discharge water leaves the farm, property, a diverse 1,700-acre spread that daily using a 45% making it a “green” facility for encompasses timber harvesting, cattle protein, 12% fat sure. ranching, a hunting reserve, and the fish farm. floating feed. Water quality and Bob Robinson photo Kurstan said maintaining correct water he can produce temperatures are vital to a 1-pound fish sturgeon growth. is the shortnose sturgeon. He feels it in 12-14 months. The Evans farm strives for and is a strong candidate for farming – but The farm harvests typically averages dissolved oxygen since it is a protected species it cannot fish at anywhere levels of 6-7 ppm, and 5 ppm is the be grown in captivity at this time. from the 1-pound absolute lowest DO level allowed. See FROM THE FIELD, next page to 2-pound size, Oxygen is produced by depending on market conditions and Evans Fish Farm water flow pumping and time of year. Sturgeon, tilapia aeration with airstones. A young sturgeon on its way to growout His primary market, like Anguilla’s, Keep heading south, and a little The pumps and blower at the Evans facility. The farm raises four is for whole packed fish on ice, but inland west of Daytona Beach, and you’ll are backed up by stand-by varieties of sturgeon and produces top Sunshiners also sells about 5%-10% of its eventually come to the 1,700-acre spread generators in the event of quality, sustainable, farm-raised caviar. annual production into the live market. near Pierson known as Evans Farms. power outages. Bob Robinson photo Kurstan said he is currently servicing A family-run business, this You might think of customers from Miami to Maryland impressive operation includes timber sturgeon as coldwater along the Eastern seaboard, and as far harvesting, cattle ranching, a hunting fish and, in the wild, west as Louisiana. reserve, and of course, fish farming. they often are. But The market is good and he would like Owned by Gene and Marilyn Evans, Gene said that through to grow but said, “Regulations stunt the the Evans Fish Farm portion of the experience he has learned growth of the farm. business focuses primarily on sturgeon that a production system “The best part of this job is I love fish. production with tilapia as a secondary temperature of about “It’s extremely hard work, but when crop. 26°C (79°F) provides an you see the fruits of your labor, it’s The farm raises Siberian, sevruga, ideal environment for definitely worth it.” osetra, and beluga sturgeon in tanks and healthy sturgeon growth. For more information on Sunshiners is a respected producer of top quality, A fish that Gene you can call the farm at (386) 937-2958. sustainable, farm-raised caviars. would love to try rearing
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 27 From the Field Jim Michaels with a Continued from previous page Mote Marine Laboratory Siberian sturgeon reared Perhaps at some point in the future the Aquaculture Research Park in the Mote Marine government will permit a culturing Located just outside Sarasota, back Laboratory's Marine program specifically for purposes of on Florida’s west coast, is Mote Marine Aquaculture Park. wild stock enhancement. Laboratory’s Aquaculture Research Park. Bob Robinson photo Predator control is an imporant As you enter the rural grounds of element of managing the fish farm, the park, the paved road is lined with Gene said. Cormorants are an ongoing majestic live oaks draped with hanging issue, but are kept in check thanks to a Spanish moss, giving the impression that federal depredation permit. Wild hogs you may have traveled back in time. and alligators can also cause potential But you are soon brought back to the problems at any time. present, and even given a preview of the Gene and Marilyn manage the farm, future, once you enter the facility and see but they are helped out by their daughter, the amazing work underway there. Jane Davis (who many of you know), Mote, as many readers will know, has grandkids, additional family, hired labor, been a leader in marine research since and their black lab, Blue. the independent nonprofit organization Jane has worked for the Disney folks was founded back in 1955. They for as long as I can remember, serving as really began to ramp up their work in the aquarium curator for the Living Seas aquaculture with development of the exhibit and also overseeing the land- 200-acre aquaculture park beginning in based aquaculture exhibit at Epcot. 2001. She spends many weekends on the Today, Mote’s research programs at farm and is always just a phone call the aquaculture park are focused on away to give advice or help out with a developing new, cost-effective systems to work with high-value species. This is harvest in 2006 and, at that point, it problem. for growing marine and freshwater where his sturgeon experience came into looked like the program would see a Gene, who before getting into fish, plants, and invertebrates, using play. profit beginning in 2007. aquaculture spent time diving on environmentally sound practices. This After plenty of research, Jim and his Unfortunately, Mote was hit with shipwrecks as a treasure hunter, knows work includes investigating new species team selected Siberian sturgeon as the two major setbacks; first a serious fire something about risk versus reward. for development towards possible ideal candidate for study at the Mote that destroyed a good bit of the team’s When it comes to fish farming, he commercially viable production. park. work; and then the global economic is blunt, “You don’t make money losing One such species is sturgeon. Consulting with US recirc experts nosedive that sent caviar prices spiraling money. You have to sell value. Jim Michaels, you might say, is the Tom Losordo and Ron Malone, along downward by as much as 50%. “Florida is a great state for brains behind Mote’s sturgeon project. with Peter Steinbach of Germany, Jim But, the program persevered. And aquaculture. We need more farms, Jim’s background includes working and the Mote research team developed a now, the market for sturgeon meat has bigger farms, producing product in an with tilapia and 17 years of growing RAS system designed to be commercially developed to where the facility can’t environmentally responsible fashion. white sturgeon in California. I actually profitable and environmentally sound. produce enough fish to meet demand. “The Dept. of Agriculture (FDACS) is visited his farm outside of Sacramento in And then they set about proving their I asked Jim to give me an overview of one of the best in the entire US and the the late 1980s and was very impressed. concept. where his program stands today. universities here back us up.” After joining Mote, Jim knew that The market for the relatively slow- Explaining that the captive, cultured If you want to engage in conversation one of the keys to proving the feasibility growing sturgeon is both meat and, fish at Mote mature much faster than with Gene, feel free to shoot him an of the recirculating aquaculture systems eventually, caviar. their counterparts in the wild, Jim e-mail at
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28 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 Black gold: caviar from the farm-raised sturgeon at Mote. Mote Marine Labs photo
Dr. Kevan Main, director of the Mote Staff moving sturgeon at Mote. Great care is taken in handling these high- Aquaculture Research value fish. Park and its many Bob Robinson photo programs, shows me an aquaponics project maturity in 4-7 years – roughly 1/3 of the Ideal temperature for these fish, by underway at the park. time it would take in the wild. the way, is 20-22°C (68°-72°F), Jim said. Bob Robinson photo So, obviously, with these captive fish, Last year’s total production was in the caviar harvest comes quicker. range of 40-50 metric tons of sturgeon Jim said fish in the growout portion meat along with about 1.6 tons of caviar. develop inland marine of his system are fed a diet of 45% You might say a mark of the recirculating systems; protein, 19% fat. This is provided using program’s success is the current situation and to develop culturing a Skretting extruded, slow-sink feed – where the demand that Jim and his methods – for emerging that is delivering a feed conversion ratio team have created for sturgeon meat now species for human (FCR) of about 1.65:1. exceeds production capabilities. consumption – and for In the hatchery, Jim’s team uses a The caviar business is more restocking declining wild richer diet to achieve consistent FCRs of problematic. Jim said cheap, inferior fisheries. developing large-scale marine fish 1:1. imported product (where have we heard Kevan oversees multiple programs production systems. The basic RAS production system at that before?) and the slowly recovering including work with snook, pompano, Too often, she said, just as her teams Mote is relatively simple, but effective. global economy continue to hold caviar amberjack, and saltwater plants. are making solid progress toward Water is pumped once and then prices down. One of the more interesting projects developing new systems or species, the gravity is used whenever possible to That said, I came away very her research team is currently working money dries up. move the water through purification, impressed with the foundation Mote on is a integrated marine fish and plant But, Kevan continues to have an prior to recirculating it back into the has laid for sturgeon farming on a system – where high nutrient water is optimistic outlook. culture tanks. sustainable, environmentally friendly, filtered through trough beds of saltwater “One of the biggest hurdles facing A rotating drum filter removes commercially viable scale. plants to clean it up (there is no saltwater US aquaculture today is the lack of solids, followed by a media tank for Leaving Jim, I walked next door and discharge from her operations). technology for (producing) high-value ammonia removal, then CO2 stripping, met with Dr. Kevan Main, director of the The harvest is native aquatic wetland candidate species.” UV sterilization, and then the water is Mote Aquaculture Park and head of the plants that are used for remediation Clearly, Mote has the facilities, the pumped back into the tanks for reuse. marine and freshwater research program purposes. tools, and the expert people to help solve The sturgeon facility replaces just there. Kevan said one of the biggest hurdles that problem. 12% or less of its water used daily. The The goals for the research program, she faces on a daily basis is securing a For more information visit
FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 29 Bell to raise its signature perch on land His amendment is intended to that conserves water, reduces fertilizer prevent prosecution of fish farmers use, and provides chemical- and if regulated species are accidentally pesticide-free healthy fish for human included with live shipments that cross consumption. state lines or are imported into the US. “The collaborative effort in this In essence, this simply restores NEWS industry is the number one key to protection that previously existed. N moving forward, and I am seeing a lot of Until the law was amended in 2008, FROM AROUND THE INDUSTRY that here,” said Chris DePalma, CEO of accidental violators of the 100-year-old Continued from page 5 Tides Canada. SweetSpring Salmon Inc., who attended Lacey Act could not be prosecuted. US “We’ve come a long ways in three “What this technology provides is not the Aquaculture Innovation Workshop. Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) years,” said Catherine Emrick, senior only a better way to produce Atlantic “As time goes on we’ll find more had to prove that accused offenders had associate aquaculture innovation, salmon but also a better way to develop sustainable ways to produce this knowingly violated the act. a diversified aquaculture (seafood) protein. But it stands today, fish farmers industry that takes advantage “The recirculating aquaculture who accidentally violate the Lacey Act of the infrastructure and system technology is potentially provisions can be subject to penalties resources already present.” revolutionary.” starting at $100,000 for almost any “For the first time, Presentations from the Aquaculture offense. this industry is seeing a Innovation Workshop 5 are available Information about the Crawford technology that is scalable for download at
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30 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 International Coldwater Prawn Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Visit
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FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013 • 31 Continued from page 29 acquired Point Four Systems based in I know of two upstart shrimp From the Field British Columbia, Canada. Point Four facilities in the state that are either is probably the most skilled company I already up and running or in the Pentair Aquatic Eco-Systems industry got our start, me included, and know in understanding dissolved gases advanced planning stages. Engineering, systems, supplies we all watched with interest as and, specifically, oxygen systems and A sturgeon hatchery project that is Many of us are still adjusting to the company expanded into many design. in the works up in Florida’s Panhandle the name change since Apopka, FL- new and different markets including: Both AES and Point Four are now region has the potential to hugely based Aquatic Eco-Systems (AES) was aquariums, pond and water gardens, under the direction of the Pentair expand production of that species within acquired last year by Pentair Inc. wastewater management, aquatic Aquatic Systems group, based in the state. But no focus on Florida aquaculture habitats, aquatic engineering and Sanford, NC. That group includes two From low-tech ponds to high-tech would be complete without a nod to design, consulting, and more. of the most knowledgeable people in RAS facilities, from ornamentals to what is now known as Pentair-AES. Sadly, Bob passed away a few years the industry when it comes to dealing gators to sturgeon, Florida aquaculture is Founded in 1978 by Bob Heideman, ago but the company and his legacy live with intensive aquaculture systems for diverse – with opportunities for growth the company initially specialized in on. aquaculture – Dr. Tom Losordo and at any scale. aeration and destratification of lakes and In 2012 AES was purchased by Dennis Delong. There was a common theme heard ponds. Pentair, a global leader in the design, Team those guys up with Pentair- throughout my visits around the state: Bob published his first catalog in manufacture, and distribution of AES’s Amy Stone, Huy Tran, and Brian high praise to the University of Florida 1981 and it included airstones of various equipment, technology, and engineered Catanzaro and you have a top flight and to the state Dept. of Agriculture sizes (that AES manufactured) and a solutions for the handling and treatment group of professionals that will help the (FDACS) – and specifically for Paul variety of other useful products for lake of water. aquaculture industry grow in Florida Zajicek. managers and fish farmers. At about the same time, Pentair also and elsewhere. People said, “This is how it is The rest, as they say, is history. Over For more information visit
32 • FISH FARMING NEWS • ISSUE 5 • 2013