The Fisheries Division’s aquaculture section, based in Naduruloulou, Kasavu, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully inducing local spawning of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus). This breakthrough was made possible after the first batch of fertilized eggs was hatched at the facility, resulting in an impressive yield of about 200,000 hatchlings. Jone Vasuca, the officer in charge of the station, described this accomplishment as transformative for the grass carp project, which is a critical element of the Japanese-assisted aquaculture development initiative.
Previously, Fiji relied on importing fertilized eggs and fingerlings from New Zealand, which posed logistical challenges. Vasuca emphasized that local spawning would enhance the ability to release more fish into local rivers, helping control invasive aquatic weed growth and serving as a sustainable protein source for local communities. This progress is particularly notable following lessons learned from past failures, including poor water quality that affected earlier spawning efforts.
Grass carp were initially introduced to Fiji to assist in managing aquatic weeds successfully, but they faced challenges regarding natural reproduction within the local environment. Earlier attempts at inducing spawning through hormone injections resulted in limited success. Despite these setbacks, the current achievement signals a hopeful future for sustainable aquaculture in Fiji.
This advancement is part of Fiji’s broader commitment to improving food security and sustainable fishing practices. The recent legislative framework provided by the Aquaculture Bill 2024 underlines the government’s commitment to bolstering the aquaculture sector, creating jobs, and ensuring responsible resource management. Overall, initiatives surrounding aquaculture not only contribute to biodiversity but also promise a sustainable future filled with economic potential for local communities.
The development of aquaculture in Fiji, spearheaded by successful projects like the one at Naduruloulou, offers a hopeful avenue for sustainable fisheries management and food production, ultimately benefiting both current and future generations.
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