The Multispecies Aquaculture Complex (MAC) of MPEDA-RGCA, located in Vallarpadam, has achieved a significant milestone in its mission to revive Black Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon) culture in India. A successful harvest from its demo culture farm underscores the viability and profitability of sustainable Black Tiger shrimp aquaculture using Best Management Practices (BMPs) and high-health seed stock.
A Step Towards Sustainable Revival
As part of its core objective to re-establish the Black Tiger shrimp as a major cultured species, MAC initiated a demo grow-out culture using two specially developed ponds (measuring 0.18 Ha and 0.15 Ha, totaling 0.33 Ha). These ponds were stocked during February and March 2025 with disease-free, high-health P. monodon seeds produced at MAC’s in-house hatchery.
A Zero Water Exchange system was adopted throughout the culture period, complemented by the regular application of natural probiotic solutions. This eco-friendly approach ensured that no antibiotics, chemicals, or artificial feed additives were used, aligning with MPEDA-RGCA’s commitment to sustainable and responsible aquaculture.
Optimised Culture and Promising Performance
Optimal water and soil quality parameters were maintained consistently. Periodic sampling was undertaken to monitor growth performance, which showed promising results. The first pond was harvested on 12th June 2025, and the second on 14th July 2025, both at 120 days of culture (DOC).
The harvest was inaugurated by Shri D.V. Swamy, IAS, Chairman, MPEDA, in the presence of Dr. Ram Mohan M.K., Director, MPEDA, Shri Anilkumar P., Secretary, MPEDA, and Dr. S. Kandan, Director, RGCA. The occasion also included an Aqua Farmers’ Meet, where the technical report of the culture was presented by Smt. Elsamma Ithack, Joint Director (Aqua) and Officer In Charge of MAC, fostering knowledge exchange with the farming community.
Results that Inspire Confidence
The demo culture yielded a total of 1,300 kg of shrimp, recording a productivity of 3.9 MT/Ha. The harvested Black Tiger shrimp exhibited excellent quality—antibiotic-free, pathogen-free, and with a uniform size range of 35–40 grams. An impressive Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) of 1.15 further reinforced the efficiency and viability of the culture system adopted.
A Model for the Future
The success of this demonstration at MPEDA-RGCA-MAC confirms that Black Tiger shrimp culture can be profitably revived in India by adhering to modern, sustainable practices and using certified disease-free seeds. This achievement not only reaffirms the potential of the species but also provides a replicable model for aquafarmers across the country.
MPEDA continues to promote sustainable aquaculture practices that ensure long-term productivity, export competitiveness, and environmental responsibility.
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