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NMC-CREES promotes Pacific white shrimp
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Posted on Aug 13 2005
The Northern Marianas College’s Cooperative Research Extension and Education Services’ Aquaculture Program is promoting the cultivation of the Pacific white shrimp in the CNMI for both subsistence and commercial purposes.
According to NMC-CREES agriculture extension agent Ross Manglona, the Pacific white shrimp or Litopenaeus vannamei has the ability to withstand diseases that other shrimp species are unable to resist.
A workshop for potential shrimp farmers was held last week to promote the raising of this specific shrimp.
Manglona said NMC-CREES believes that, through such workshops, farmers will develop the industry further as this type of ranching is quickly becoming a popular venture for some of the CNMI’s farming community.
Aquaculture specialist Michael Ogo conducted the workshop. He said a shrimp industry is possible in the CNMI because the science and technology keeps progressing as years go by.
“We are pleased to say that this industry is quickly catching on,” he said.
At present, Ogo said, NMC-CREES has two clients operating for subsistence purposes only; however, there is one large commercial operation on the way.
Ogo said the college is hoping to see more “recirculating tanks” being built within the year.
Manglona, who is also the Saipan Aquaculture Leader, said the workshop covered the areas of shrimp biology, system design, tank setup, and water quality.
He said the participants have already expressed strong interest in joining forces with existing farmers to form a cooperative.
“We offer aquaculture workshops as an alternative to that of traditional farming. Such educational sessions allow us to get in touch with members of our community and try to make an impact on their lives through the ‘power of knowledge,’” Manglona said.
