ALTERNATIVE FEED FOR SHRIMP

In 2015 compound feed production was expected to reach close to 1 billion tonnes globally. FAO estimates that by 2050 the demand for food will grow by 60% higher than today, with aquaculture production projected to rise by 90% (IFIF, 2015). The demand for fishmeal will likely to be increased, with their prices are expected to rise by 90 percent. Marine shrimp is considered the top consumer of fish meal for its production. Well balanced feeds are required to grow or maintain well-being shrimps under a wide range of farming conditions. With respect to high price and competition for fishmeal, replacement by alternative protein sources which require relatively less fishmeal-based shrimp feed is preferred. With proper replacement strategies, a number of studies have demonstrated that fish meal levels can be reduced or eliminated. It is clear that cheaper high quality plant or terrestrial animal protein sources can be used to successfully replace fish meal in shrimp feeds without compromising shrimp growth with ensuring nutrient requirements in terms of essential amino acids, fatty acids and minerals as well as potential palatability in the diets. Nonetheless, with significant improvements anticipated in the efficiency of feed and management practices, the importance of fishmeal and fish oil in shrimp feed will definitely decline as the industry continues to develop alternative feeds from plant-based sources and to improve efficiencies in feeding practices over time.