STATUS OF THE U.S. FARM-RAISED CATFISH INDUSTRY

The U.S. farm-raised catfish industry continues to contract. Since reaching its peak at 79,626 hectares in 2002, the amount of pond space has decreased to 25,309 hectares in 2016 (Figure 1). The annual rate of decrease has slowed dramatically over the last few years with some new ponds being built in 2016. This renewed interest is attributed to record live fish prices ($2.67/kg) and lower feed prices.

Producers have increased yield per hectare by adoption of new technologies. Increased aeration rates to maintain minimum dissolved oxygen levels above 3 ppm has led to improved feed conversion levels. Hybrid catfish (channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus females X blue catfish Ictalurus furcatus males) are now estimated to comprise 50% of the catfish produced. Producers continue to switch traditional ponds to improved production systems such as intensively aerated small ponds and split-ponds. The use of hybrid catfish in the improved production systems has resulted in per hectare yield increases of 100% to 200% on some farms.

Despite improvements in fish price and productivity, the industry continues to face several challenges. Opponents of the change of catfish inspection from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) continue their efforts to have the law repealed or defunded. Although officially still in the transition phase, FSIS inspection has led to increased refusals of imported products and a recall of one lot of U.S. product. Despite claims that the switch to FSIS inspection would be a trade barrier, imports of Siluriformes imports are on pace to approach 2015 import levels.

An environmental, non-government organization has filed a petition with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to list 43 fish and crustacean species as Injurious Wildlife under the Lacey Act. These 43 species and been previously identified as "High Risk" by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Blue catfish Ictalurus furcatus is one of the species proposed. Listing would prohibit the interstate transport of live animals or hybrids and would have a dramatic negative impact on the already declining U.S. industry.