May 21, 2025

Brazilian black tiger shrimp offers new hope for sustainable aquaculture

A new study found that the Brazilian black tiger shrimp is well-positioned to serve as the foundation for a structured breeding programme focused on disease resilience and sustainable growth.

Australian biotechnology company Genics is spotlighting a new research that demonstrates the potential of Brazilian broodstock of Penaeus monodon as a robust alternative to Pacific whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) in aquaculture systems.

The study was conducted in collaboration with researchers from the State University of Maranhão and the Australia-based Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). The collaboration assessed the pathogen load and genetic diversity of a domesticated population of black tiger shrimp from Ceará, Brazil across 10 generations. Pathogen screening of 96 shrimp using molecular diagnostics and histopathology revealed no significant pathogens, establishing the control as a potential foundation for specific pathogen-free (SPF) breeding programme.

"This is pivotal finding for the Brazilian shrimp farming sector," said Melony Sellars, CEO of Genics. "By demonstrating that local black tiger shrimp populations are pathogen-free and genetically diverse, we're providing the industry with the tools to enhance resilience, reduce disease risk and foster sustainable production systems."

Genetic analysis using SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) markers showed a low inbreeding coefficient of 0.03, comparable to international populations in Vietnam and Australia. The findings suggest that the Brazilian breed is well-positioned to serve as the foundation for a structured breeding programme focused on disease resilience and sustainable growth.

"Pathogen-free genetically diverse populations are essential for aquaculture sustainability," said Sellars. "This research not only provides a blueprint for the Brazilian shrimp industry but also demonstrates the potential for local breeding programmes to reduce reliance on imported stocks and mitigate the spread of infectious diseases."

The study also highlighted the importance of comprehensive pathogen screening and genetic analysis as critical components of aquaculture management. Genics' ShrimpID P. monodon service leverages high-density SNP markers to accurately assess genetic diversity and trace lineage, providing shrimp farmers with vital insights to inform breeding programmes and optimise stock performance—further supporting Genics' mission to advance biosecurity and food security globally.

-      Aquafeed.com