University of Exeter__Improving hatchery biosecurity for a sustainable shrimp industry in Bangladesh_Annual Report 2022_Fabruary 2021 - March 2022

Abstract

WorldFish has implemented the project entitled “Improving hatchery biosecurity for a sustainable shrimp industry in Bangladesh” in partnership with University of Exeter, UK, Association of Realization for basic needs (ARBAN) and Centre for Communication and Action Bangladesh (C-CAB). The specific objectives of the project are (i) assessment of the biological, physicochemical and socioeconomic parameters of shrimp hatcheries to create bespoke biosecurity management strategies; (ii) enhanced understanding amongst shrimp farmers of better management practices for receiving seed from hatcheries and optimized practice for seed introduction to ponds; (iii) collect and disseminate evidence of the benefits of increased biosecurity. The annual report summarizes activities, progress during February 2021 to March 2022. The achievements of the project included i. Selection of 13 shrimp hatcheries in Cox’s Bazar to work in collaboration in improving hatchery biosecurity ii. Prepare baseline questionnaire, data collection, baseline sample collection and analysis iii. Development of a self-assessment of shrimp hatchery biosecurity mobile app, seven biosecurity training videos, informal screening on the feedback of the training videos iv. Conducted a study on the socio-economic benefits of improvement of biosecurity v. Developed hatchery monitoring sheets including visitor log book, water quality, feeding and animal health vi. Determined effective communication channel/route with hatchery technicians vii. Created Facebook group, and project webpage is under preparation viii. Three research studies accomplished (a) Sustainable water usage in the Bangladesh shrimp industry: a collective challenge (b) Addressing Bangladesh shrimp hatchery biosecurity as a means to improving industry sustainability and (c) An assessment of Penaeus monodon Broodstock supply for shrimp farming in Bangladesh

The project implementation has been affected due to COVID-19 pandemic since the beginning till end of the project. The pandemic delayed staff recruitment, program implementation, inhibit physical participation of international partners, organize meeting/ workshop, group meeting with hatchery technicians.