To diversify the types of marine food-fish cultured in the US, Ocean Era has been investigating Kyphosis vagiensis (aka Nenue or Brassy Chub) as a candidate species for aquaculture. Our results indicate that this fish has tremendous potential for culture in both land-based and offshore systems.
Kyphosids are warmwater marine herbivores found around the globe, but to our knowledge they are not farmed anywhere. The commercial fishery for wild Nenue in Hawai’i is relatively small, but they are often caught recreationally and are consumed both raw and cooked.
This presentation will outline the techniques Ocean Era has used for Nenue broodstock management, larval production and grow out. The results of several feed trials will be discussed, as will the fish health issues we’ve experienced.
Nenue seem to be well-suited for culture in offshore or land-based systems, and we believe that this species is commercially ready. Initial taste tests and local sales show that the community has an appetite for farm-raised nenue. These fish will be appreciated by markets that demand high quality and sustainable products.