The Department of Fisheries, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), recently hosted a Capacity Building and Stakeholder Workshop on Sustainable Shrimp Hatchery and Seed Production.

Facilitated by FAO Consultant Dr. Mohammed Megahed, the workshop strengthened participants’ knowledge of sustainable shrimp hatchery management, seed production, and culture practices. A key focus was the introduction of the Pacific whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), one of the world’s most widely cultured shrimp species. Participants discussed its culture potential, production systems, water quality requirements, feeding, husbandry, and management.

As part of the technical mission, Dr. Megahed also visited the Union Aquaculture Hatchery, where he met with technical staff and pond attendants to review existing operations, discuss production challenges and identify opportunities for improving shrimp hatchery and seed production.

The initiative supports ongoing efforts to strengthen technical capacity, promote species diversification and advance the sustainable development of Saint Lucia’s aquaculture sector.