Japfa announces successful breakthrough in breeding tropical eels

The breakthrough in tropical eel reproduction achieved by the Aquaculture Research Center (ARC), established by PT Suri Tani Pemuka (STP) of the Japfa Group, has significant implications for both commercial aquaculture and eel conservation efforts. Tropical eel (Anguilla bicolor) is a highly sought-after species in culinary markets across Asia and beyond, valued for its rich flavor and high nutritional content.

Traditionally, tropical eel farming has relied on catching wild juveniles, known as glass eels, and raising them to market size in farms. However, the ARC research team, in collaboration with Prof Senoo Shigeharu, has achieved a major milestone by successfully hatching 70,000 larvae and achieving larval rearing for 11 days. This breakthrough demonstrates the potential for large-scale production of tropical eel in controlled aquaculture settings.

“This success in reproducing tropical eel not only represents a historic achievement in aquaculture but also underscores Japfa Group’s commitment to sustainability in food production,” stated the group in a press release. Ardi Budiono, president director of STP, emphasized the significance of this achievement in sustainable eel population management, highlighting the importance of reproducing eel in captivity to reduce pressure on wild populations.

The ability to breed tropical eels in captivity not only benefits the aquaculture industry but also contributes to biodiversity and ecosystem health. Renaldo Santosa, president director of PT Japfa Comfeed Indonesia and executive director of Japfa Group, emphasized the importance of applying livestock production principles to aquaculture and eel farming to increase efficiency and reduce reliance on wild-caught glass eels.

Moving forward, STP is committed to implementing sustainable eel farming practices, conducting further eel research, and supporting efforts to restock eels in their natural habitat. This dedication to sustainable aquaculture aligns with the group’s vision of promoting innovation and collaboration between industry and academia to address the challenges of sustainable food production.

In conclusion, the successful reproduction of tropical eel in a controlled environment marks a significant milestone in aquaculture and eel conservation efforts. This breakthrough not only opens up new possibilities for commercial aquaculture but also underscores the importance of sustainable practices in ensuring the long-term viability of eel populations. The collaboration between the ARC, STP, and Prof Senoo Shigeharu exemplifies the power of vision, perseverance, and innovation in driving positive change in the aquaculture industry.