Singapore is turning to Australia for valuable insights and best practices in order to enhance its fledgling aquaculture sector. During a week-long study trip organized by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment, Koh Poh Koon, highlighted the importance of adopting Australia’s proven methods for sustainable fish farming.
One major challenge faced by Singapore’s aquaculture sector is a high fish stock mortality rate, reaching up to 70% in some traditional farms. In contrast, Australian farms typically report losses of 10% or less, emphasizing the need for a science-based approach to animal husbandry. The Singapore authorities are considering providing resources for local farms to tap into veterinary science expertise and adopt better practices.
To address high mortality rates and prevent diseases, Singapore’s fish farms are learning from Australian counterparts about strengthening biosecurity measures. These measures include strict protocols for staff disinfection, prevention of cross-contamination between equipment, and ensuring equipment used for one system does not affect another.
Clean Seas Sustainable Seafood in Port Lincoln, Australia, emphasizes sustainability in its operations and aims to use algal oils and insect meals instead of fish oils and meals. The company also explores multitrophic aquaculture, incorporating seaweed to capture the carbon and nutrient footprint of its farming activities.
Singaporean aquaculture entrepreneurs are inspired by Australia’s harmonious integration of nature and farming. The use of seaweed to absorb excess nutrients in the water is one such example. Singaporean farms are working with the National University of Singapore to identify suitable seaweed species for local waters.
Singapore is also studying Australia’s use of a nutrient budget to balance nutrient content and fish health. The comprehensive water monitoring programs in Australia, covering parameters like dissolved nitrogen and nutrients, are being considered for implementation in Singapore. The authorities are exploring the possibility of legislation to manage feeding practices, ensuring sustainable development in the nascent aquaculture sector.
Dr. Koh emphasized the need for regulations to guide the proper use of feeding and stocking, considering the potential impact on water quality shared by multiple farmers. Funding for water monitoring programs is also under consideration to ensure the comprehensive assessment of water quality in Singapore’s fish farms.
Source: Channel News Asia
