New research uncovers distinct genetic stratification between shallow-water and northern shrimp, with temperature linked to diversity in offshore populations.
A recently published article details the genetic stratification observed between inshore shrimp (common in shallower waters) and offshore shrimp (northern shrimp, Pandalus borealis) populations in northern Iceland. The study analyzed reduced representative genome sequence data from shrimp samples collected across three key areas: Arnarfjörður bay in the Northwest, Skjálfandi bay in the North, and extending offshore to Kolbeinsey island, located approximately 100 kilometers off Iceland's northern coast. [Click here to read the article]
The research revealed minimal genetic differentiation within the inshore shrimp populations. However, a clear genetic gradient was identified when comparing inshore and offshore shrimp. Notably, the study also indicated a significant aggregation of inshore shrimp outside of Skjálfandi bay.
Previous research has shown limited genetic diversity in northern shrimp despite their extensive boreal distribution. In contrast, this new study uncovered a strong correlation between bottom sea temperature and the identified genetic variation across the offshore samples collected from Skjálfandi bay to Kolbeinsey island.
Brussels is considering reformulating the quotas with an eye on the management of exporting countries
The national fleet celebrates the move, the industry is cautious
Alaska pollock (340,000 tons), cod and Boreogadus saida (110,000 tons), Patagonian squid (75,000 tons), frozen surimi (60,000 tons), shrimp and prawns of the Penaeus vannamei and Penaeus monodon species (48,000 tons), Pacific and Argentine hake (40,000 tons), tuna loins (35,000 tons)... These are the main species that benefit each year from the tariff quotas that the European Union applies to just over 900,000 tons of foreign fish and shellfish
Author: Jorge Garnelo / Faro de Vigo l Read the full article here
They also agree that EU regulations condition the energy transition.
Currently, there is no technological alternative that can be practically and widely applied to the different fleets; it is necessary to implement an appropriate and realistic decarbonization schedule, adjusted to the technological, logistical, and legislative advances that occur." Scientists from Azti agree with this response from the Spanish Government to the BNG member of Congress, Néstor Rego.
Source: La Voz de Galicia | Read the full article here
Spain-based ocean technology company Zunibal – which is owned by Nazca Capital – has acquired Taiwan-based Zong Hong Marine, expanding its reach into Asia.
Zunibal said the new acquisition is oriented around expanding its international reach. With the purchase, Zunibal is creating Zunibal Asia, with operational headquarters in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Zunibal specializes in manufacturing satellite buoys for fishing fleets and unveiled floating and submerged fish aggregating devices (FADs) in 2024 through a partnership with Spain-based AZTI Technology Center.
Author: Chris Chase / SeafoodSource l Read the full article here
A December 2024 study by France AgriMer, as reported by Vincent Schumeng of Produit de la Mer (PDM), investigated consumer perceptions of labeled oysters and mussels, revealing three distinct profiles.
The first group, regular and knowledgeable consumers, prioritizes the production area. "Locavores," the second profile, favor local products and are open to exploring new origins. Finally, non-coastal buyers, who shop occasionally in supermarkets, are most influenced by labels.
The study found a generally positive perception of oysters and mussels: 84% of consumers consider them healthy, and 81% view them as environmentally friendly. However, only 54% perceive them as affordable. Freshness is the top purchasing factor, followed by price, season, and French origin. Labels are a consideration for less than half of the consumers surveyed.
Recognition of specific labels and quality signs varies significantly. While 80% are familiar with "appellation d'origine contrôlée" (AOP), only 17% recognize the "traditional specialty guaranteed" (TSG).
Logo recognition also shows disparities. The Marennes Oléron logo is recognized by 72%, compared to just 38% for bouchot mussels. General logos fare better: 83% recognize the organic logo, 80% the Label Rouge, and 74% the Nutri-Score. Recognition is lower for the AOP logo (44%) and Breizhmer (26%).
While the direct impact of labels on purchasing is hard to quantify, the study indicates that product names themselves can be strong motivators. "Bouchot mussels" encourages 71% of consumers to buy, and "fine de claire" motivates 64%. This suggests a correlation between awareness and the potential influence on purchasing decisions.
~Utilizing Frozen Bonito Scraps to Contribute to the SDGs~
Kyokuyo Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce the completion of its "Kneaded Flakes Factory" at the Ibusuki Foods Co., Ltd. (a consolidated subsidiary in Ibusuki City, Kagoshima Prefecture) premises on April 10th. This initiative aims to improve business efficiency and strengthen the Kyokuyo Group's commitment to the effective utilization of marine resources by processing frozen bonito scraps into kneaded flakes for dashi powder.
Ibusuki Foods Co., Ltd., established in 2015 and primarily producing bonito tataki from frozen bonito landed at Yamakawa Port, previously outsourced the processing of bonito shavings. This new in-house facility allows for a consistent business scheme, contributing to the SDGs by valorizing previously underutilized resources.
Through its business growth, Ibusuki Foods Co., Ltd. will continue to support economic revitalization and job creation in Yamakawa, the renowned "town of katsuo," while actively working towards a sustainable society.
Through Ministerial Resolution No. 00148-2025-PRODUCE, Peruvian authorities announced that the first anchovy fishing season will begin in north-central Peru on April 22, 2025, with a total quota of 3,000,000 metric tons. This announcement follows a comprehensive assessment of anchovy biomass conducted by the Peruvian scientific institute IMARPE. Additional biomass analysis will be conducted through a Eureka operation between April 19 and 21, 2025.
In February 2025, globally, according to IFFO market intelligence reports, total cumulative fishmeal production increased by approximately 40% compared to the same period in 2024.
The supply of seafood will change radically by 2050, as forecasts estimate that aquaculture, which is growing faster than extractive fishing, will overtake the latter and become the main source of seafood supply. What is the estimate? A new report by DNV estimates aquaculture production of finfish at 74 million tons by 2050, with algae production expected to increase from 30 million tons in 2018 to 50 million tons per year by 2050. Consequently, "we predict that global marine aquaculture production will reach around 124 million tons/year by mid-century," compared to extractive fisheries, which, the report notes, "with optimal fisheries management, the maximum sustainable yield from marine capture fisheries has been estimated at 89 million tons/year in 2050."
Source: iPac.acuicultura l Read the full article here
Young’s Chip Shop, the No.1 in frozen battered fish is launching its new Extra Large Haddock fillets as it continues to target consumers looking to replicate their favourite takeaways at home.
The Chip Shop brand’s existing Extra Large range, which includes Extra Large Cod, is worth £11.7m, growing 17.9%, and are some of the brand’s bestsellers [1]. Now, with the introduction of the new Chip Shop Extra Large Haddock fillets, consumers can choose between the two most popular fish on takeaway menus in the UK, offering even more options for those looking for tasty, affordable options to the local fish and chip takeaway.
Source: SalmonBusiness l Read the full article here