KUWAIT: The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) has made a groundbreaking achievement in marine aquaculture, successfully cultivating the trevally fish (shaim) in closed aquaculture systems. This marks the first time in the Middle East that fish larvae have been produced from trevally raised in highly purified water within such controlled environments, a significant step forward in the region’s efforts to enhance food security and promote sustainable aquaculture practices.

Dr Faisal Al-Humaidan, Acting Director-General of KISR, highlighted that the successful production of larvae from parent trevally fish in closed systems represents a major advancement in aquaculture technology. He emphasized that this achievement not only supports local food security but also helps protect the natural population of trevally fish, which have been threatened by overfishing and environmental changes in the Arabian Gulf.

The project, led by Amani Al-Yakout, cultivated the fish without any reproductive stimulants, making this approach commercially viable. Trevallies, with their high market value and ecological importance, are in high demand in both local and regional markets, yet they face significant threats due to overfishing and rising salinity in the Gulf.

The institute had been developing the technology for trevally cultivation since 2021, making KISR the first research institution globally to focus on breeding this species in controlled, closed systems. A key milestone was reached in May 2024, when KISR’s team successfully produced trevally larvae, marking a major achievement in aquaculture.

This achievement was made possible with the support of the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences and in collaboration with the private sector, including the Integrated Technologies Company for Fish and Shrimp Farming. The project’s success further solidifies Kuwait’s position as a leader in marine science and sustainable fish farming.

Beyond its commercial benefits, this breakthrough in trevally fish cultivation plays a critical role in preserving endangered marine species. Trevally fish have been listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List since 2014, and this research helps ensure their survival while meeting local demand for the species. — Agencies