November 20, 2006

Bulgaria's Atlantic limited to farm barramundi

Bulgarian fish processor Atlantic Limited has announced plans for a pilot aquaculture scheme in the country to farm barramundi. 

The fish's white flesh is delicate, mild-flavoured, and relatively boneless, making it a popular food. The fish, orignating from Australia, is also of large commercial importance and is fished internationally and raised in Australia, India, Indonesia, Thailand, the UK, US and the Netherlands.

The company said it would begin fish farm production at its plant with Cell Aqua, an Australian aquaculture specialist, as its advisor.

The move highlights the growing importance of aquaculture as populations of wild stock rapidly decline.

Scientists, environmental organisations, and the European Commission have been calling on EU member countries to implement major cuts in fishing quotas for many species.

Cell Aqua's Dale Harris said sustainability concerns and the quality of fish is encouraging more processors like Atlantic Limited to look to alternative species like Barramundi.

The project would adopt the company's "re-circulating aquaculture technology" to produce a sterilised highly oxidised environment, allowing optimum conditions for the Barramundi.

Baramundi Fingerlings of around 0.5 grammes would grow to 750 grammes after an eight month period. 

The farm is expected to produce 17 tonnes a year at the pilot phase, rising to 50 tonnes once Atlantic Limited switches to its commercial facilities.