18 May 2026Vallainc, D., Estevez, A., Júdez, S.R, Concu, D., Carboni, S., Duncan, N., and Lovatelli, A. | 371 Downloads | .pdf | 13.09 MB
This technical manual provides practical guidance on the hatchery production of the flathead grey mullet, Mugil cephalus, a high-value, low-trophic marine species with strong potential for sustainable aquaculture development. It compiles current knowledge and tested methodologies covering the entire production cycle, from broodstock management and captive reproduction to larval rearing, fry production and grow-out.
The manual presents the biological and developmental characteristics of the species, together with practical recommendations for hatchery site selection, design and operational management. It also describes live feed production, including microalgae, rotifers and Artemia, as well as health management and disease prevention in hatchery systems.
Based on experimental research validated at laboratory and pilot scales, the techniques described are suitable for application in commercial hatcheries and adaptable to both small- and large-scale operations. By supporting reliable seed production and improved culture practices, this publication contributes to the sustainable expansion of aquaculture in line with the FAO Blue Transformation Roadmap and the principles of the Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture.
On 28 April 2026, the NACA Secretariat was privileged to welcome Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MOFAHD), Government of India. Dr. Likhi, who led a high-level delegation from the Indian Embassy, visited NACA’s Bangkok headquarters to engage in discussions aimed at deepening the collaborative bonds between India and the regional aquaculture community.
The visit underscored India’s pivotal role as a founding member of NACA. For decades, India has remained a cornerstone of the organisation, contributing significantly through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). During the meeting with NACA Director General Dr. Eduardo Leano, the delegation discussed advancing regional aquaculture development with a specific focus on aquatic disease surveillance and transboundary knowledge exchange, sharing insights on how innovation can further modernise the sector.
This disease card provides an overview of Translucent Post-larvae Disease (TPD), a highly infectious and lethal disease known (thus far) to infect Penaeus vannamei, P. chinensis and P. japonicus mainly in post-larvae of four to seven days age (PL2~PL7). TPD can cause morbidity of up to 60% in 24 hours after clinical signs and up to 90-100% mortality in severe cases on the second to third day.
This card details the causative agent (a Vibrio spp. carrying the Vibrio high virulent protein VHP-1 and VHVP-2), host range, geographical distribution, epidemiology, prevention and control measures, histopathology, molecular diagnostics, expert contact and references.
AquaInnovate 2 brought together 12 startups, scientists, and industry leaders in Bangkok from 23-27 March 2026, continuing the momentum to accelerate nature-based solutions and climate innovation across the Asia-Pacific, with financial from Canada's International Development Research Centre.
The week blended intensive learning with practical experience. Entrepreneurs pitched breakthrough ideas in biotechnology, community enterprise, and regional scaling, then refined their business models through expert coaching circles. Field visits to innovative Thai aquaculture sites connected theory with real-world practice, while a high-stakes "Shark Tank" session challenged innovators to defend their ideas before experienced investors and business leaders. A culinary showcase highlighted the importance of engaging buyers and chefs as essential partners in market success - not just scientists and farmers.
The week concluded with the unveiling of the AquaHub Vision, a roadmap for a permanent digital platform to sustain and grow the pan-regional network of aquaculture innovators into 2026 and beyond.
Videos of workshop presentations will be available on this page and NACA's YouTube channel shortly.
