ENVIRONMENT

Vaccination in Sea Ranching: A Responsible Practice to Safeguard Marine Ecosystems

China, 16 January 2025 | Experts advocate for increased investment in cost-effective vaccines and innovative delivery methods

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Sea ranching, where juvenile fish are nurtured in controlled environments before being released into the wild, often encounters significant challenges, particularly high mortality rates due to disease outbreaks. Recent research highlights the transformative role of vaccination in mitigating these issues and supporting global efforts to responsibly replenish wild fish populations.

Despite its potential, the widespread adoption of vaccination in sea ranching is constrained by high costs, regulatory complexities, and logistical hurdles. To overcome these barriers, experts advocate for increased investment in cost-effective vaccines and the development of innovative delivery methods, such as mucosal and nanoparticle-based solutions.

A review published in Frontiers in Marine Science sheds light on how targeted immunisation of fish before release can improve survival rates, enhance productivity, and maintain ecological balance. The findings reveal several key advantages. Vaccinated fish show significantly improved survival compared to unvaccinated groups. For instance, Atlantic salmon immunised against bacterial pathogens such as Aeromonas salmonicida and Vibrio anguillarum achieved recapture rates up to 5% higher.

Preventive vaccination minimises the need for antibiotics, addressing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance in marine ecosystems. Advances such as DNA, recombinant, and plant-based edible vaccines provide scalable, efficient solutions for large fish populations.

By enhancing fish health, vaccination contributes to biodiversity preservation and supports stock replenishment, ensuring the sustainability of fisheries.

The study emphasises that vaccination offers a proactive and sustainable approach to tackling disease challenges in sea ranching. These breakthroughs pave the way for a more resilient seafood supply chain while safeguarding the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

This progress marks a vital step towards meeting the rising global demand for seafood, ensuring aquaculture remains a key pillar of food security for future generations.

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