TAAL LAKE’S LEGACY: FROM SUNKEN TOWNS TO SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE VOLUME 56, NUMBER 4 THE MAGAZINE OF THE WORLD AQUACULTURE SOCIETY DECEMBER 2025 W RLD AQUACULTURE
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 1 WORLD AQUACULTURE MAGAZINE WORLD AQUACULTURE magazine is published by the World Aquaculture Society. The home office address is: World Aquaculture Society, PO Box 397, Sorrento LA 70778-0397 USA. P and F: +1-225-347-5408; Email: JudyA@was.org World Aquaculture Society Home Page: www.was.org WORLD AQUACULTURE SOCIETY OFFICERS, 2025-26 Wendy Sealey, President David Cline, Immediate Past President Foluke Areola, President-Elect Matt Parker, Treasurer Angela Caporelli, Secretary DIRECTORS Shivaun Leonard Yahira Piedrahita Catriona Macleod Brian Small Kathleen Hartman Russell Grice Benter Anyango, Student Director CHAPTER REPRESENTATIVES Khalid Salie, African Bibha Kumari, Asian Pacific Han-kyu Lim, Korean Luis Andrés Gonzalez-Agraz, Latin America and Caribbean Michelle Walsh, USAS HOME OFFICE STAFF Judy Edwards Andrasko, Director, JudyA@was.org Killian A. Haydel, Assistant Director, killianh@was.org WORLD AQUACULTURE EDITORIAL STAFF C. Greg Lutz, Editor-in-Chief Cecilia C. Nichols, Editorial Assistant Linda Noble, Layout Editor WAS CONFERENCES AND SALES John Cooksey, Executive Director of Conferences and Sales World Aquaculture Conference Management P.O. Box 2302, Valley Center, CA 92082 P: +1-760-751-5005; F: +1-760-751-5003 Email: worldaqua@was.org MANUSCRIPTS AND CORRESPONDENCE Submit manuscripts as Microsoft Word files to C. Greg Lutz at glutz@agcenter.lsu.edu. Letters to the Editor or other comments should be sent to the Editor-in-Chief at glutz@agcenter.lsu.edu. WORLD AQUACULTURE (ISSN 1041-5602), is published quarterly by the World Aquaculture Society, 6203 Jonathan Alaric Avenue, Gonzales, LA 70737 USA. Individual subscriptions are a benefit of membership in the World Aquaculture Society. Annual membership dues: Students, $45; Individuals, $90; Corporations, $295; Sustaining, $155 (individuals or non-profits); Lifetime (individuals) $1,400. ©2025, The World Aquaculture Society. W RLD AQUACULTURE VOL. 56 NO. 4 DECEMBER 2025 12 In Memoriam: Dr. Flower Ezekiel Msuya 15 Seaweed Aquaculture in Saudi Arabia: Community Partnerships and New Opportunities for Agar Production Osamah Ahmad, Ibrahim Almohsen, Raul Rincones, Pedro Guemes, Benjamin C. Young, Saif Algethami and Ali Al Shaikhi 20 From Ocean to Land: Eco-Friendly Pearl Production through Onshore Marine Oyster Culture Ajai Kumar Sonkar 26 Are We Wasting It? The Story of Phosphorus and Salmon Lucia Drábiková, Saskia Kröckel, P. Eckhard Witten, Guido Riesen, Paul Morris, Agnés Ostertag, Martine Cohen-Solal, Thomas W.K. Fraser and Per Gunnar Fjelldal 35 Taal Lake’s Legacy: From Sunken Towns to Sustainable Aquaculture Randy Begtang, Lorenzo Raphael M. Deza and Janice A. Ragaza 42 Thraustochytrids as a Promising Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Functional Bioactives for Sustainable Aquaculture Kurapati Nagendrasai, Saurav Kumar, Chundru Sri Sai Venkat, Bhautik Savaliya and Rishikesh Venkatrao Kadam 46 The Oyster Chronicles: Tales of Grit, Growth, and the Changing Seas Michael S. Candelaria, Kathleen Harris Kin B. Ybanez and Janice A. Ragaza 52 Building the Capacity of Aquaculture For the Blue Economy in the Caribbean Juli-Anne Royes Russo Ph.D. 56 Onions to the Rescue: Natural Compounds From Allium Cepa Show Promise Against European Seabass Pathogens Jose F. Cabello-Gómez, Iria Folgueira López, Carmen García de Lomas del Cid, María del Mar Agraso Martínez and Alberto Baños Arjona 58 Safer Seas with New Farms? How New Salmon Farming Technologies Are Changing the Way People Work Kristine Vedal Størkersen, Cecilie Salomonsen, Trine Thorvaldsen, Siri Mariane Holen and Trond Kongsviki 60 Antibiotics in Aquaculture: Cure or Curse? Banothu Divya, Banoth Raveendar, Shiga Nagaraj, Konduri Arun and M. Shyam Prasadki 64 Turning Coal Mines into Aquatic Gold: Sustainable Fish Farming in Abandoned Pits Vinod Kumar 67 High Growth Rate of Atlantic Salmon, Salmo salar, is Linked to Tissue Oxidation, Consumption of Antioxidants and Risk of Oxidative Stress Kristin Hamre, Peng Yin, Takaya Saito and Per Gunnar Fjelldal 70 A Review of Fish Health and Welfare Challenges in African Aquaculture: Implications of Cultural Practices Tafadzwa Maredza and Alice Namata 76 Giant Freshwater Prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii): A Potential Candidate Species in Aquaculture Diversification in Bihar, India Tarkeshwar Kumar, Vivekanand Bharti, Kamal Sarma, S.K. Ahirwal and Anup Das COVER: Taal Lake, its neighboring volcano, and the surrounding communities have been intertwined since before the Philippines even existed as a country. See story, page 35. (CONTENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 2)
2 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG Contents (continued) 2 President’s Column 3 Editor’s Note 4 Latin American and Caribbean Chapter Report 7 USAS Chapter Report 8 Asian Pacific Chapter Report 10 African Chapter Report 80 Conference Calendar 81 Future Conferences and Expositions 84 Membership Application President’s Column lamp to open the Chapter meeting for the WAS Asian Pacific Chapter. This meeting not only highlighted the remarkable aquaculture growth in the region but also showcased the adaptability of the WAS Conference Staff and Program Planning Committees after the event’s relocation to India earlier this year. The prosperity represented by the symbolic silver elephants presented at the meeting was clear. Looking ahead, future opportunities to bring together professionals from across the aquaculture industry to share knowledge, network, and collaborate will include the US Chapter Meeting at Aquaculture America in Las Vegas, Nevada, February 16-19, 2025, which will host the WAS Board midyear meeting, and the World Aquaculture Singapore meeting on June 2-5, 2026 where the WAS Board and Officers for 2026-2027 will be appointed and the new strategic plan implemented. I hope to see many of you there as we continue together to grow WAS and advance the field of aquaculture. Regarding your current WAS Board leadership activities, the Board is currently working hard this quarter on several important initiatives including: 1. Soliciting nominations for WAS Board and Officers (Deadline: December 15) 2. Finalizing the timeline and publishing the first call for WAS Honors and Awards to be presented at World Aquaculture in Singapore, 3. Updating and clarifying the WAS policy, rules, and regulations document, and 4. Developing the WAS 2025-2030 strategic plan. These efforts will serve as a roadmap to guide the Society’s priorities and initiatives over the next few years, ensuring that we continue to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities in aquaculture. I encourage all members to stay involved through submitting nominations, volunteering for WAS committee service, and engaging on WAS social media platforms to share their perspectives as we shape the future of WAS together. Your input is invaluable in ensuring that the future WAS reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of our global community. Redefining Leadership and Celebrating Achievements: A Look Ahead If I’m being honest, writing this President’s column for the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) Magazine isn’t my favorite task. That might surprise those of you who know me as someone who’s never been shy about sharing opinions on just about anything. Don’t get me wrong—I deeply appreciate the honor of authoring this column. Serving as your President of the World Aquaculture Society is a privilege I am incredibly proud of, and I still pinch myself when I think about being elected to this leadership position. But writing this column is challenging: imposter syndrome often creeps in, fueled by the fear of disappointing the membership that entrusted me with this role. Especially when I read the eloquent articles written by past WAS Presidents and I’m struck by how skillfully they address globally relevant industry issues and propose solutions to tackle them in this column. It’s a high bar to meet. While I may not be the most qualified person to wax poetic on critical industry topics like escaped species, climate change, economic and social hurdles, market competition, or regulatory challenges, I’ve come to realize that I don’t have to do it alone. The true strength of WAS lies in its diverse network of members— individuals whose collective expertise and efforts drive meaningful change in aquaculture. Together, we are far more powerful than any single voice. On October 15, the World Aquaculture Society’s voice was recognized for its technical leadership, innovation, collaboration, and best practices in advancing sustainable agrifood systems by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This prestigious award is a testament to the incredible work of our members and the Society’s role as a global leader in sustainable aquaculture development. It was a proud moment for all of us, and it reinforced the importance of the collective efforts of our members in driving meaningful change. Sitting on stage in Hyderabad, India on November 10, with keynote speakers and global aquaculture changemakers, Dr. Manuel Barange, Assistant Director General of FAO, and Dr. M. Vijay Gupta, retired Assistant Director General of the WorldFish Center, I had to pinch myself again when I was invited to light the (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 3 Editor’s Note From time to time when I’m not already upset about something else, I’ll go surfing online to peruse the latest criticisms of aquaculture. Almost invariably, the term “Industrial Aquaculture” is discussed in the same light as nuclear fallout or uncontained oil spills. The usual narrative is that smallscale, low-input aquaculture is good and large-scale operations are bad. That’s it, pretty much: good or bad, small or industrial. But for many cultured aquatic species there is a continuum of scale and intensity among operations, and an objective observer might find some flaws in these simplified depictions of aquaculture if the facts were more freely available. For example, criticism of high-density production systems often ignores the counter argument that increased environmental control and monitoring can result in improved fish welfare. And criticism of the localized environmental impacts of these systems ignores the potential for more focused monitoring, management and mitigation. In Thailand, researchers recently demonstrated that tilapia production in a high-density in-pond raceway system generated 18% lower CO2 equivalents per ton of production than traditional pond culture, at a 38% lower cost. In the farming of aquatic organisms, larger and more intensive operations are almost always more sustainable. In Vietnam, researchers evaluated white-leg shrimp farms and determined that intensive operations were roughly twice as resource efficient as semiintensive ones. Another group determined that the larger the farm size, the more efficiently these shrimp farmers could utilize their inputs. An analysis of the Italian aquaculture sector generated similar findings. The smallest farms were generally inefficient, while larger firms exhibited higher average efficiencies. Studies on seabream and seabass production in Greece have also established that larger farm sizes and species specialization result in improved technical efficiency (summarized here). So why do critics consistently demonize industrial aquaculture? It would seem that some individuals who make a living criticizing the sector have become adept in their choice of words. According to the Oxford Languages Dictionary, “industrial,” in its traditional use means “relating to or characterized by industry.” Given the environmental, social and economic impacts of global industrialization over the past century, the term can easily conjure up negative reactions. However, it can also mean “of or relating to productive work, trade or manufacture.” Perhaps… we should start using the term “industrious aquaculture.” Which brings up another trend in semantics that is increasingly bothersome: the use of the oxymoron “scientific consensus” by many aquaculture detractors. The word scientific refers to something based on, or characterized by, the methods and principles of science. This involves quantifiable, observable evidence, not beliefs or guesses. In any reputable research setting hypotheses are proven or rejected and results are verifiable, repeatable and objectively evaluated within a real-world context. Casual or imprecise interpretations of observed phenomena or behaviors have no place in sound science. Nor do arbitrarily assigned values, except possibly when analyzed with nonparametric statistical methods. Consensus is accepted to mean general agreement about ideas or opinions. But the definition of consensus is often a moving target that depends on the context in which the word is used. The criteria that would normally establish “scientific consensus” (as the term is tossed around and misused these days) are conveniently never clearly defined. Consensus implies a lack of certainty and a preponderance of opinion, as anyone who has participated in a Delphi study can readily understand. The term “scientific consensus” is easily abused by those who want to skip the real science. Once a fact is rigorously proven scientifically, there is no longer any need for consensus. — C. Greg Lutz, Editor-in-Chief Word Choices: An Important Strategy for Critics Which brings up another trend in semantics that is increasingly bothersome: the use of the oxymoron “scientific consensus” by many aquaculture detractors. The word scientific refers to something based on, or characterized by, the methods and principles of science. This involves quantifiable, observable evidence, not beliefs or guesses. In any reputable research setting hypotheses are proven or rejected and results are verifiable, repeatable and objectively evaluated within a real-world context. Casual or imprecise interpretation of observed phenomena or behaviors have no place in sound science.
4 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG Latin American and Caribbean Chapter CHAPTER REPORTS The results of the recent meeting in Chile have marked a turning point for our organization and for all the participants. This event not only consolidated the progress we have been making over the past few years, but also opened new avenues for regional collaboration, technical integration, and institutional strengthening that address the current challenges facing our sector. In Chile, we witnessed an unprecedented level of participation, both in terms of the richness of the presentations and in the quality of the dialogue among representatives from different countries. The working groups allowed us to identify essential areas of agreement on innovation, sustainability, emerging regulations, and continuous improvement, while also sharing successful experiences that can serve as replicable models in the region. The commitment shown by each delegation confirms that we are moving toward a shared and mature vision, where cooperation replaces isolated competition and where information becomes a tool for collective growth. I would like to especially highlight the professionalism with which Chile hosted this meeting. The logistical organization, punctuality, and openness demonstrated were key to ensuring that the discussions were in-depth, productive, and results-oriented. Each participant returned to their country with concrete inputs, tangible agreements, and a renewed perspective on the importance of maintaining strong working networks that transcend borders. However, the most valuable aspect of this event was not only what we achieved, but what we now intend to build. It is precisely in this continuity that the strength of our efforts lies. Therefore, I am pleased to announce that our next major regional meeting will take place from October 27 to 30, 2026, at the Real Intercontinental Hotel in San Salvador, El Salvador. This event will be an opportunity to deepen the agreements reached in Chile, evaluate the progress of our initiatives, and plan new lines of action that respond to the dynamism of our industry. I invite all our colleagues, strategic partners, public and private institutions, and international organizations interested in strengthening regional cooperation to save these dates and join us for the 2026 meeting. Our commitment is to offer a high-level forum with a substantive agenda, bilateral meetings, expert presentations, and to exchange opportunities that will continue to raise the standard of our events. Chile has shown us that when we work together, the results exceed all expectations. Now it's time to take the next step and bring this shared vision to San Salvador. I am fully confident that, with your active participation, 2026 will be a year of consolidation, growth, and new opportunities for our regional community. — Luis Andrés Gonzalez-Agraz, President SOME BENEFITS OF BEING A MEMBER OF THE LACC • Access to World Aquaculture Magazine in both English and Spanish • Access to members-only section on the internet, including back issues of our publications • Discounts on registration fees for WAS and LACC conferences • Opportunities to join LACC committees of your interest • Student support services, awards, and opportunities • Global networking and professional contacts • Leadership opportunities as a Director or officer For more information: https://www.was.org/LACC/en/portal.aspx
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 5 Para mas informacion: Carolina Amezquita Email carolina@was.org www.was.org October 27-30, 2026 Latin American and Caribbean Aquaculture Congress 2026 Hotel Real Intercontinental San Salvador San Salvador, El Salvador Organized by LATIN AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN CHAPTER Premier Sponsors Supported by Local Organizeer LACQUA26 Letter ad CMYK.indd 1 10/26/25 07:26
6 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG February 16-19, 2026 Paris Las Vegas Las Vegas, Nevada USA Associate Sponsors Aquacultural Engineering Society Aquaculture Association of Canada Global Seafood Alliance International Association of Aquaculture Economics and Management Latin American Chapter WAS US Trout Farmers Association Zebrafish Husbandry Association THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE & EXPOSITION OF For More Information: Conference Manager Email: worldaqua@was.org Web: www.was.org Tradeshow: worldaqua11@was.org Premier sponsors AA26 Letter ad CMYK.indd 1 8/25/25 19:09
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 7 U.S. Aquaculture Society CHAPTER REPORTS The USAS Board approved their petition for formation in October. A reminder to our active student subunits that annual reports for 2025 are due on January 9, 2026. Our Awards Committee is currently reviewing submitted abstracts and applications for student travel awards for Aquaculture America as well as nominations for our 2026 professional awards, which had deadlines of December 1. Professional award categories include Distinguished Lifetime Achievement, Distinguished Service, Distinguished Early Career, and the Douglas Drennan II Industry Leadership Award. The USAS Elections Committee has prepared the ballot for the incoming Board of Directors roles to be filled for 2026. This year, we received nominations for a talented and diverse pool of aquaculture leaders. If you’re a member of USAS, keep your eyes peeled for an email from WAS Communications and vote for our new President Elect, Vice President, and two Members at Large. New Board members will be inducted at the USAS Annual Business Meeting which kicks off Aquaculture America. I look forward to seeing you there! — Michelle L. “Mick” Walsh, President And just like that, we reach the end of 2025. We round out the year with just over 1070 United States Aquaculture Society (USAS) members of which 420 are students! Before you know it, Aquaculture America (February 16-19, 2026 at Paris Las Vegas Hotel in Nevada, USA) will be upon us. Great rates (less than $200 per night) have been arranged at the Paris and Horseshoe (formerly Bally’s) hotels. Early Bird registration deadline is January 24, 2026. Remember to check the box during the registration process indicating that you are a member of “US Aquaculture Society, WAS” so that meeting proceeds will be distributed appropriately (more revenue means more funds available for member and student support, services, and recognition!). Speaking of students, student events and activities planned for Aquaculture America 2026 include the mentor-mentee breakfast, student field trip, student organized and moderated panel, room lottery, and student reception. For USAS student subunits specifically, we are planning a social with the USAS Board, a student night out, and an oral presentation and poster showcase. A special shout-out to our newest USAS student subunit, Mississippi State University! WAS Receives Global Technical Recognition from FAO for its Role and Leadership on Sustainable Aquatic Food Systems On October 15, 2025, the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) was honored with a prestigious award from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for its significant role in sustainable aquatic food systems. The award was presented by FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu during a ceremony held at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy. This event marked FAO’s first-ever Global Technical Recognition Ceremony, which took place as part of the organization’s 80th anniversary celebrations and the World Food Forum 2025. This award underscores the importance of the WAS as a pivotal vehicle and instrument for the development of sustainable aquaculture globally, and reaffirms WAS’s role as a global leader in fostering enhanced international communications, collaborations, education, and information exchange. The award was accepted by Mr. Blessing Mapfumo, Executive Officer of the World Aquaculture Society African Chapter, on behalf of Dr. Antonio Garza D Yta, the WAS-FAO Global Liaison. WAS was among over 40 recipients of special recognition by the FAO at the recent Global Technical Recognition Ceremony.
8 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG CHAPTER REPORTS Asian Pacific Chapter World Aquaculture India 2025 (WAI 2025), organized by the World Aquaculture Society – Asian Pacific Chapter (WAS-APC) with the support from the Government of Telangana, together with the National Organizing Committee, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and with strong support from P.V. Narsimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University (PVNRTVU), the Society of Aquaculture Professionals (SAP), and Marine Product Export Development (MPEDA) — concluded successfully at the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, reinforcing India’s growing leadership in global aquaculture. This year’s World Aquaculture India event brought together over 3,600 participants from 63 countries, including 90 students. The international trade show featured 110 booths highlighting innovations, technologies, and services from leading companies in India and abroad. Scientific activities included 438 abstracts, 298 oral presentations, 76 posters, and 45 technical sessions, reflecting the sector’s growing research and development momentum. The conference opened on November 11 with the Lighting of the Lamp and welcome remarks. The ceremony was graced by key leaders from WAS-APC, ICAR, PVNRTVU, the Government of Telangana, NFDB, MPEDA, and other distinguished officials. Keynote presentations included: Dr. Modadugu Vijay Gupta, World Food Prize Laureate (2005), on “Indian Aquaculture: Meeting Food and Livelihood Security” and Dr. Manuel Barange, Assistant Director General, FAO, on “Trends and Projections in Global and Regional Aquaculture: A Blue Transformation.” WAS Awards and WAS-APC Student Awards were also presented, recognizing excellence in aquaculture research. Over the three-day event, WAI 2025 delivered comprehensive sessions covering feed and nutrition, genetics, disease management, sustainability, market trends, and digital innovation. A special farmerfocused session, organized by the NFDB, brought together farmers from across India, while additional sessions were conducted by MPEDA. The exhibition halls offered a dynamic space for networking, technology demonstrations, and partnership development. Special thanks to the program chair and session chairs for their support in organizing and leading the sessions. WAI 2025 was a tremendous success, highlighting India’s leadership in aquaculture innovation and sustainability. The knowledge exchange and collaboration during the event will significantly strengthen aquaculture development across the AsiaPacific region. We extend our sincere thanks to all participants for their active involvement. We hope this event has enriched everyone with valuable insights, new technologies, and innovative ideas. We remain committed to continuing this momentum and delivering future events that support learning, innovation, and progress for all. WAS-APC expresses gratitude to its Premier Sponsors — Aker Qrill Company, Avanti, Blue Aqua, Devee Group, INVE Aquaculture, DSM, Syaqua, and Zeigler — whose support was instrumental in delivering an outstanding international event. Special appreciation is also extended to all media partners whose coverage and outreach expanded the global visibility of WAI 2025 and amplified the sector’s collective voice. — Imad Saoud, President The opening ceremony was graced by key leaders from WAS-APC, ICAR, PVNRTVU, the Government of Telangana, NFDB, MPEDA, and other distinguished officials. This year’s World Aquaculture India event brought together over 3,600 participants from 63 countries, including 90 students. The international trade show featured 110 booths highlighting innovations, technologies, and services from leading companies in India and abroad. Scientific activities included 438 abstracts, 298 oral presentations, 76 posters, and 45 technical sessions, reflecting the sector’s growing research and development momentum.
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 9 photos © Singapore Food Agency HIGH YIELD PRODUCTION June 2-5, 2026 Conference Sponsors Temasek Polytechnic, Nanyang Technological University AquaPolis, National University of Singapore, James Cook University, Republic Polytechnic Singapore Institute of Technology THROUGH NUTRITION, HEALTH, GENETICS AND RESOURCES Singapore EXPO Convention & Exhibition Centre Hosted by The Annual international Conference and Exposition Organized by World Aquaculture Society WAS Premier Sponsors Join WA Singapore 2026 now! with Special Rate Discounts offer for Asia-Pacific Countries * (*Only for the list of Asia-Pacific countries that qualify: Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and PR China) For More Information: Conference Manager Email: worldaqua@was.org Web: www.was.org Tradeshow: worldaqua11@was.org WA26 wasmag ad CMYK.indd 1 8/4/25 06:58
10 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG CHAPTER REPORTS African Chapter In Africa, a lot has happened during this past season, with many events and activities taking place across different regions and countries to support aquaculture through our membership and societal delivery mechanisms. In West Africa, I attended several events in Nigeria, both in person and virtually, where I presented papers and engaged with members and partners. I also took part in the Aquaculture Ghana Conference 2025 in October, one of the leading conferences in West Africa, where I delivered a keynote speech. I experienced many inspiring moments with students from two secondary schools in Ghana, and the unexpected happened to one of the schools: a gift of a growing tank, fish feed, and fingerlings to help them start their fish farming at their school. WAS-AC has a strong membership in Ghana and maintains connections with the Chamber of Aquaculture in Ghana and other key organizations. I also had the opportunity to meet with high-level government delegates, which was crucial as we prepare for the highly anticipated first international WAS Conference in West Africa—Aquaculture Africa Ghana 2027 (AFRAQ2027), scheduled for November 2027. In November, I was invited to Angola, another leading country, where I attended the International Conference on Fisheries and Aquaculture celebrating Angola's 50th anniversary of independence. I presented a paper on ‘Vision Towards Advancing Aquaculture Development in Angola and Central Africa’ at the 2nd Plenary session, chaired and moderated by WAS-AC Secretary Dr. Francisca Delgado. WAS aims to serve as a strategic platform to promote aquaculture development in Central Africa through its “REACH OUT TO LEAST PRODUCING STRATEGY.” The conference offered an opportunity to meet with high-level government officials and discuss key priority areas where WAS can support the country's aquaculture development agenda. We hope to sign an MoU with the government of Angola and other key entities, which could establish WAS as a vehicle for sustainable aquaculture in Angola. Many thanks to Dr. Francisca Delgado for your role in promoting the WAS strategy in the region. My Regional Director for North Africa, Dr. Nevine Shabana, attended the 10th International Fisheries and Aquaculture Conference (SIPA 2025) in Oran, Algeria, where she met with members and partners as part of her outreach efforts in North Africa and the Arab world. We have exciting plans to advance the region’s aquaculture development efforts in the near-to medium-term. I have also been watching many other national, regional, and partner events that continue to highlight WAS’s role as a global leader in promoting international communication, collaboration, education, and information exchange on aquaculture. Many thanks to our strong partnerships with various organizations, including the AUDA-NEPAD, FAO, and our members at large. We were well represented at several workshops, conferences, and farmers’ forums celebrating Fisheries Day 2025. On the international stage, our participation in key strategic events this November, especially in Asia, has been crucial. The World Aquaculture India 2025 event was well-attended, including some members from Africa. The INFOFISH Global Tilapia Conference in Thailand featured our African members, who enhanced the profile of tilapia aquaculture in the region. Our goal is to develop stronger cooperation frameworks with the Asia-Pacific region for growth. Already, our partner, AUDA-NEPAD, has begun an MoU with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), which we hope will lay the groundwork for better collaboration, particularly within South-South cooperation. We look forward to advancing these efforts as we prepare for the World Aquaculture Conference in Singapore in June 2026. This might be my last column as Chapter President, but I am currently working on a more detailed article that will cover my journey and the achievements during my term. The rapid growth in membership and the strengthening of African conferences and outreach programs are just a few highlights we plan to share. As you may know, Dr. Khalid Salie from Stellenbosch University, South Africa, will assume the role of Chapter President starting in January 2026, and I am confident he will elevate the WAM African columns to new levels. Thank you for your support of my articles over the past two years! I hope they have been both informative and inspiring. Finally, I want to announce that the United Nations has declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. We hope to seize this opportunity to collaborate more closely with the UN, FAO, AU, and other organizations to highlight African women's vital role in aquaculture value chains in various ways. We will keep you informed about this and ensure you start preparing to register for AFRAQ2026 in Tanzania. The event website and all related information will go live this November. Thank you. — Foluke O. Areola, President President, cont. from page 2 As I reflect on these recent milestones and current Board activities, and look forward to our future events, I am comforted by the fact that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about fostering a community where diverse perspectives and expertise can thrive. WAS is a shining example of what can be accomplished when we work together toward a shared vision. Together we can continue to drive meaningful change in aquaculture. Thank you for your ongoing dedication to the World Aquaculture Society. I am grateful to be part of this collective journey and look forward to continuing to serve you in the months ahead. Warmest regards, — Wendy Sealey, President, World Aquaculture Society
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 11 For More Information: www.was.org or contact worldaqua@was.org Exhibition & sponsors: mario@marevent.com Organized By Hosted By WAS Premier Sponsors The United Republic of Tanzania Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries (Zanzibar) Conference Sponsor Chapter Corporate Sponsor “Aquaculture Driving Blue Transformation” 5th Annual International Conference & Exposition of the African Chapter of the World Aquaculture Society WA26 Tanzania WAS ad CMYK.indd 1 3/26/25 16:55
12 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG Dr. Msuya at the “Maximizing Africa’s Blue Economy” workshop in May 2024. Dr. Msuya’s devotion to seaweed value chains improved the lives of thousands of women in Tanzania and throughout the world. In Memoriam Remembering Dr. Flower Ezekiel Msuya Dr. Flower Ezekiel Msuya, a renowned global seaweed professional from Africa and long-serving WAS member, passed away on 3rd August 2025. We in the African Chapter have known Dr. Msuya as a genuinely warm individual — a passionate advocate for sustainable aquatic blue foods development and, to some of us, a cherished friend. While we mourn the loss of this remarkable champion of our time, we also celebrate a life well-lived, dedicated to the advancement of sustainable aquaculture development in Africa. Dr. Msuya was particularly devoted to supporting seaweed value chain actors, not just in Tanzania but globally. The upliftment of thousands of women in the seaweed value chains in Tanzania is a clear testimony of Dr. Msuya’s impact to the coastal communities in the country. Few individuals leave behind a legacy of such dedication and professional accomplishment. For over two decades, Dr. Msuya actively contributed to the World Aquaculture Society (WAS). She played a crucial role in establishing the African Chapter of WAS in 2018, where she volunteered as a member of the Executive Board of Directors. Renowned for her representation of Tanzania in countless international meetings and conferences, she worked tirelessly to elevate the profile of seaweed aquaculture. Dr. Msuya authored numerous articles and research papers, (including through the Journal of World Aquaculture Society and World Aquaculture Magazine) that continue to benefit the sector today and in the future. Her rich experience and expertise in seaweed aquaculture saw her actively participating in global seaweed platforms, including founding the renowned Zanzibar Seaweed Cluster Initiative (ZaSCI). At WAS, we knew Dr. Msuya as an affable, cooperative, and dedicated official. Despite her impressive background and often busy schedules, she remained humble and approachable — always ready to lend a hand. Our partner, AUDANEPAD, had recently (2024) begun engagements with Dr. Msuya on developing a broader seaweed program for Africa. She was also a member of the Steering Committee for the upcoming World Aquaculture Tanzania 2026 Conference (AFRAQ2026), which will be hosted by the Government of Tanzania in Dar es Salaam in December 2026. As we celebrate Dr. Msuya’s remarkable and lasting achievements, her impact continues to resonate in our hearts and in the lives of those she has touched and transformed. We remain committed to collaborating with others to continue the important work that Dr. Msuya championed in advancing the sustainable aquaculture and seaweed sector. We in the African Chapter have known Dr. Msuya as a genuinely warm individual — a passionate advocate for sustainable aquatic blue foods development and, to some of us, a cherished friend. While we mourn the loss of this remarkable champion of our time, we also celebrate a life well-lived, dedicated to the advancement of sustainable aquaculture development in Africa. ... The upliftment of thousands of women in the seaweed value chains in Tanzania is a clear testimony of Dr. Msuya’s impact to the coastal communities in the country. Few individuals leave behind a legacy of such dedication and professional accomplishment.
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14 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG Founding GOLD SPONSOR of African Chapter WAS WWW.ALLER-AQUA.COM ALLER TIL-PRO ALLER TILPRO MATCHES THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF YOUR FARMED TILAPIA ALLER TIL-PRO follows several principles which form the basis for its success: • Carefully selected high quality raw materials, sourced locally when possible • Developed at Aller Aqua Research to ensure knowledge-transfer to our customers • Close cooperation with customers ensures successful testing under practical conditions ALLER TIL-PRO keeps creating benefits for an increasing amount of tilapia farmers. Contact us today to find out more! LET’S GROW TOGETHER Founding GOLD SPONSOR of African Chapter WAS WWW.ALLER-AQUA.COM ALLER TIL-PRO LPRO ALLER TILPRO MATCHES THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF YOUR FARMED TILAPIA ALLER TIL-PRO follows several principles which form the basis for its success: • Carefully selected high quality raw materials, sourced locally when possible • Developed at Aller Aqua Research to ensure knowledge-transfer to our customers • Close cooperation with customers ensures successful testing under practical conditions ALLER TIL-PRO keeps creating benefits for an increasing amount of tilapia farmers. Contact us today to find out more! LET’S GROW TOGETHER
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 15 (CONTINUED ON PAGE 16) Rural Development Program) projects, the national development programs in Saudi Arabia, which aims to establish food security and sustainability strategies for the country’s environment and agriculture sectors. Additionally, the coastal area of Saudi Arabia provides suitable conditions for seaweed aquaculture, and no other country in the region has had a more developed seaweed sector during that period, which aligns with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s national sustainable development strategy. Therefore, the benefits of seaweed farming in Saudi Arabia would be multifaceted: 1. Economic diversification: Seaweed can create new jobs, stimulate the local economy, and open new markets for Seaweed-based products, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels, providing a diverse range of applications and potential revenue streams (Figures 1 and 2). Especially, it can increase employment opportunities and income for female and youth fishermen in coastal rural communities (Alshaikhi et al. 2023). 2. Food security and nutrition: Seaweed is a nutritious food source rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. It can help enhance food security. Also, it is easy to process and does not require expensive equipment (Figures 1 and 2). Despite suitable natural environments, abundant wild populations ideal for farming, and increasing market demand for seaweed, Saudi Arabia’s seaweed aquaculture industry is still in the early stages. Saudi Arabia has a coastline of 7,572 km, with the Red Sea to the west and the Arabian Gulf to the east: approximately 2,400 km of undeveloped coastline and a pollution-free coastal environment. Moreover, the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf hold a wide array of several large algae groups: red algae Rhodophyta (more than 6000 species), brown algae Phaeophyceae (more than 2000 species), and green algae Chlorophyta (more than 1200 species), which have a high potential for seaweed aquaculture development and commercialization in the export market (Bayomy and Alamri 2024). However, compared to fish and shrimp farming, which began in the 1980s (Young and Shaikhi 2022, Young et al. 2025), Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in seaweed farming and microalgae cultivation in recent years, although it has not yet reached a commercial scale. Since 2019, the Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture (MEWA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have promoted seaweed aquaculture development under the REEF (Sustainable Agricultural Seaweed Aquaculture in Saudi Arabia: Community Partnerships and New Opportunities for Agar Production Osamah Ahmad, Ibrahim Almohsen, Raul Rincones, Pedro Guemes, Benjamin C. Young, Saif Algethami and Ali Al Shaikhi FIGURE 1. Seaweed keeps in tubular nets fixed in floating raft structures. Source: Osamah Ahmad. FIGURE 2. Young Saudis including women actively involved in production tasks.Source: Osamah Ahmad.
16 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG 3. Environmental sustainability: It does not require freshwater or arable land and can help mitigate climate change by absorbing CO2 and producing oxygen. Especially the coastal areas of Saudi Arabia are severely lacking in freshwater resources. Based on the above purpose, FAO and MEWA have implemented relevant field experiments since 2023. Selecting the potential species Two species, Sarconema filiformis and Gracilaria multipartita have been selected as genetic resources with the most potential in Saudi Arabia. The criteria used for selecting the two potential species included: 1. Commercial value based on their chemical and/ or nutritional composition from previous studies made elsewhere. 2. Adaptation to economical and straightforward rope and net cultivation systems in the sea through vegetative/ clonal propagation in shallow protected areas, in both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. 3. Fast growth strains with chemical resistance to herbivores. 3. Adaptation to extreme temperatures during the entire year (Figure 3). Notably, Sarconema filiformis and Gracilaria multipartita are suitable for commercial use in food, biotech applications, carrageenan production, bioplastics, and biostimulants (Figure 4). The pilot projects with small-scale producers FAO and MEWA carried out three pilot projects with smallscale producers in the Farasan Islands (southern coastline, Red Sea), Jeddah (western coastline, Red Sea), and Al-Khobar (northern coastline, Arabian Gulf) in 2024 (Figure 5). The primary purpose was to evaluate the growth of the selected species involving coastal communities, research institutions and the MEWA technical staff. Based on biomass increments at the Jeddah site under cultivation, a 4.34% DGR (Daily Growing Rate), was attained, which is considered optimal for tropical species. The biomass growth recorded in Farasan reached 2.34%, which is average for some Southeast Asian countries, but lower when compared to India and Indonesia, at 4-6%. The results in the Al-Khobar site, due to the high salinity and water temperature, were not as expected. Small-scale producers initiate seaweed production in Al-Lith, the Jeddah area According to the results of pilot projects with smallscale producers, we selected the Al-Lith area near Jeddah for small-scale production and feasibility analysis. The proposed farm will utilize a floating raft culture method in coastal waters. A total of 350 rafts (floating frames) will be deployed in a suitable nearshore site. Each raft is designed to hold up to 300 kg of live Gracilaria attached via tubular nets. Raft culture is a proven technique for Gracilaria farming – for example, a 3 × 3 m bamboo raft can yield around 200 kg of wet seaweed in a 45-day cycle under good conditions. In our plan, each raft (approximately 3.66 × 3.66 m) is slightly larger and stocked to a capacity of 300 kg, capitalizing on the favorable growth conditions in the Red Sea (Figures 6-8). The growing season for Gracilaria in the Jeddah region spans from October to May, approximately an 8-month window when water temperatures and conditions are optimal. Gracilaria exhibits a DGR of about 4.34% per day in this region (as observed in pilot studies). This is within the typical range reported for raft-cultured Gracilaria (~3–5% daily). Such rapid growth enables multiple harvest cycles throughout the season. Based on the DGR and local farming practice, we anticipate ~5 complete cycles (45–50 days each) from October to May. In each cycle, rafts are seeded with cuttings of seaweed and harvested once FIGURE 3. Drying process in a high temperature weather location. Source: Raul Rincones. FIGURE 4. Sampling of local seaweed species Gracillaria multipartita. Source: Raul Rincones.
WWW.WAS.ORG • WORLD AQUACULTURE • DECEMBER 2025 17 the biomass reaches ~300 kg per raft. After each harvest, a portion of the biomass can be used to re-seed the rafts for the next cycle (or fresh seedlings can be collected if needed). This cyclical harvesting maximizes annual yield while keeping the standing crop within the raft’s carrying capacity (300 kg). The farm will operate year-round, focusing on production from October to May and performing maintenance or other activities during the off-season (June to September, when harsh summer conditions prevail). Overall, with 350 rafts in operation, the farm is expected to produce approximately 525 metric tons of wet seaweed per year, yielding around 15.75 tons of agar. This is a substantial output that can supply local industries (such as culinary gelatin and microbiological media) and reduce imports. The feasibility analysis for farming Gracilaria multipartita in the coastline (using a raft system for agar production) is strongly positive. The technical viability is supported by the species’ fast growth and proven raft culture methods, and the economic potential is excellent due to the high value of agar. Based on the results of biomass increment obtained in the smallscale production and feasibility analysis, it was clear that the region of Jeddah area was the most suitable for initiating small-scale seaweed production. Challenges and opportunities The development of seaweed aquaculture in Saudi Arabia holds significant promise for economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and food security. The successful implementation of small-scale production in the coastline area demonstrates the feasibility and potential of seaweed farming in the Middle East region. However, there are still several limitations to be overcome: 1. Natural environmental restrictions: Seawater along the Saudi Arabian coast typically exhibits salinity levels of 42–45‰. However, high water temperatures ranging from 17.5°C to a maximum of 35°C have posed challenges (Young and Shaikhi 2023), limiting both suitable seaweed culture species and the duration of cultivation periods (Figure 9). 2. Expansion of smallscale production: Scaling up farming projects to other small-scale producers’ operations in different regions. Especially in the Red Sea coastal regions, where water temperatures and salinity are more suitable, these areas are usually more capable of subsequent processing for food or feed. 3. Market development: Establishing supply chains and market linkages for seaweed products, both domestically and internationally. It is necessary to form alliances through industry-governmentacademia collaborations, especially in the fields of food and medicine. These projects can be achieved through local academic institutions and private enterprises and can also lead to increased employment opportunities and industrial development. 4. Capacity building and training: Providing training programs for local communities and stakeholders to build expertise in seaweed farming and processing, especially for female and youth fishermen in coastal rural communities. 5. Quality Control of product: Producing food-grade and lab-grade agar requires maintaining quality during processing. Gel strength and purity are essential for market acceptance. The processing facility must adhere to strict hygienic standards, and the producer may require training in best practices for agar extraction. Any quality issues could impact the selling price or marketability, so this risk must be mitigated through effective quality assurance protocols. Overall, although slightly constrained by environmental factors, the feasibility analysis for seaweed farming in Saudi Arabia’s coastal areas is strongly positive. Technical viability is supported by the species’ fast growth and proven raft culture methods. The economic potential is excellent due to the high value of agar and other processed products. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 18) FIGURE 5. Pilot project in Farasan islands testing the growing daily rate. Source: Raul Rincones. FIGURE 6. Raft floating system installation. Source: Osamah Ahmad.
18 DECEMBER • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG Beyond profits, seaweed farming offers strategic benefits: it contributes to local industry by supplying agar for food processing and laboratories, it creates skilled jobs in the mariculture sector, and it aligns with environmental sustainability by cultivating a renewable marine resource. Seaweed farming is a modern and sustainable aquaculture opportunity that can thrive within the framework of sustainable agricultural rural development, diversifying the economy and leveraging the country’s extensive coastline for food and biotechnology production. If well-executed, this seaweed production venture can position Saudi Arabia as a regional player in agar production, reducing dependence on imports and spurring further innovation in marine agribusiness. Looking ahead, the focus will shift from feasibility to implementation, with an emphasis on supporting more coastal producers, building small-scale agar processing capabilities, and linking products to domestic and regional markets. Saudi Arabia’s coastline holds untapped potential, and with the right partnerships, seaweed farming can evolve from a promising pilot to a transformative industry. Acknowledgements The authors express their gratitude to the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for providing photos and materials. Special thanks to all young Saudis who have actively participated in the seaweed production activities, to the Naqua company to allow the implementation of the activities in their coastal area, and to the MEWA Seafood Laboratory in Jeddah for the extraction of agar testing. Notes Osamah Ahmad, National Fisheries and Aquaculture Expert, The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Ibrahim Almohsen, National Professional Officer, The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Raul Rincones, Seaweed Expert, The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Pedro Guemes, Technical Adviser (Fisheries and Aquaculture), The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Benjamin C. Young,* Aquaculture Consultant, Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Saif Algethami, Director of Aquatic Animal Health Department, Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Ali Al Shaikhi, Assistant Deputy for Livestock and Fisheries, Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. * Corresponding author: benjamin@nfdp.gov.sa References Alshaikhi, A., Alshaye, K., Ageely, O., Samarali, R., Alharbi, B., Alhafedh, Y., Almohsen, I. and P. Guemes. 2023. Fisheries Statistics: Saudi Arabia 2016-2021. FAO, Riyadh. Saudi Arabia. Bayomy, H.M. and E.S. Alamri. 2024. Biochemical Assessments of Six Species of Edible Coastal Algae Collected from Tabuk Region in Saudi Arabia. Molecules 29:639. Young, B.C. and A.A. Shaikhi. 2022. Sustainability Estimates of Coastline Fish Hatcheries in Saudi Arabia. North American Journal of Aquaculture 84:442-446. Young, B.C. and A.A. Shaikhi. 2023. Sobaity Seabream Culture in High-Temperature Conditions. North American Journal of Aquaculture 85:200–204. Young, B.C., S. Algethami, A.A. Alazwari, F. Alghamdi, and A.A. Shaikhi. 2025. Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) Aquaculture in Saudi Arabia: A New Start and New Practices. World Aquaculture 56(1):48–51. FIGURE 7. Cleaning and preparation of growing systems. Source: Osamah Ahmad. FIGURE 8. Building raft floating system with simple materials such as ropes and pipes. Source: Osamah Ahmad.
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