Artemia, or brine shrimp, is a vital input in hatchery-based aquaculture, essential for the early rearing of shrimp, marine fish, and increasingly, ornamental species—supporting the production of over 10 million metric tons of fish and crustaceans. Yet, more than 90% of global Artemia cyst supply still comes from wild sources, mainly hypersaline lakes in the U.S. and Central Asia. This heavy reliance exposes the sector to disruptions in supply, price volatility, and environmental risks.
The World Bank Group PROBLUE study “A strategic approach to brine shrimp Artemia aquabusiness” revealed that a s global aquaculture expands and demand grows for sustainable, climate-smart feed solutions, the need for reliable Artemia sources is becoming urgent.
It appears that many regions worldwide hold untapped potential for Artemia farming, offering opportunities to enhance hatchery performance, reduce feed imports, create jobs, and support broader blue economy goals.
Proven and scalable Artemia farming systems already operate successfully in China, Vietnam, Thailand, and Bangladesh, and can be adapted to new geographies. Significant market opportunities exist across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where saline land, rising aquaculture demand, and feed-import dependency converge.
Beyond aquaculture, Artemia biomass has emerging value as a novel livestock feed and a nutrient-rich food source for humans. Expanding production in existing saltworks and artisanal salt systems—particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America—could unlock new livelihood opportunities.
Integrating Artemia aquaculture into blue economy and climate-smart agriculture initiatives can drive sustainable development—supporting salt farm revitalization, women-led cooperatives, local employment, and coastal resilience.