ICAR-CIBA Teams Up with Salem Microbes to Combat Shrimp Hatchery Bacterial Disease

by Fishery News

To tackle the persistent threat of bacterial diseases in shrimp hatcheries, the ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA) has introduced an innovative solution. Their latest breakthrough, a bacteriophage-based product, marks a significant advancement in biocontrol within shrimp hatchery environments, promising to deliver premium-quality shrimp seeds free from antibiotic residues.

Harnessing the potential of bacteriophages – viruses that target specific disease-causing bacteria – CIBA researchers have developed an ingenious ‘phage prophylaxis and therapy’. Unlike conventional antibiotics, this pioneering therapy leaves no residual effects and exhibits remarkable precision in targeting bacteria while preserving other microorganisms unharmed.

For years, bacterial diseases like vibriosis have inflicted substantial economic losses on aquaculture hatcheries globally. Dr. S V Alavandi, Principal Scientist and Head of Aquatic Animal Health and Environment Division at CIBA, underscores the significance of this new product in combating such diseases, particularly in shrimp hatcheries.

The efficacy of the product, formulated using a diverse range of lytic bacteriophages sourced from India’s aquaculture and coastal ecosystems, has been rigorously validated through field trials. Dr. K K Vijayan, Director of CIBA, emphasizes the innovative nature of the technology, featuring a potent ‘cocktail of phages’ capable of neutralizing a wide spectrum of pathogenic bacteria.

In a strategic move to facilitate widespread adoption, CIBA has entered into a partnership with Salem Microbes Private Limited. This collaboration enables the transfer of technology to Salem Microbes, facilitating large-scale production and broad dissemination.

Dr. Vijayan underscores the pivotal role of industrial partnerships in disseminating technology to the shrimp farming community. He emphasizes the imperative for closer collaboration between research institutions and industry players to drive innovation and sustainable development in brackishwater aquaculture.

Expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration, Mr. Ramesh Kumar Dhanakoti, CEO of Salem Microbes, highlights his company’s commitment to leveraging microbial solutions for enhanced farming productivity and environmental sustainability.

Dr. P K Patil, Principal Scientist at CIBA’s Technology Management Unit, plays a crucial role in facilitating the seamless transfer of technology and patent filings, ensuring this groundbreaking innovation transitions seamlessly from the laboratory to the market.

 

 

 

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