Tag Archive for: shrimp

Vietnamese shrimp producers can ignite exports using Genics technology – VietShrimp 2024

By Dirk Kruger 

After a disappointing 2023 season, Vietnamese shrimp producers are planning for a year of growth in 2024, and Genics is committed to being part of the industry’s recovery & expansion. 

Last week, I visited the 2024 VietShrimp Aquaculture conference in Ca Mau as part of the Australia–Vietnam partnership for Climate-Smart Agriculture delegation to find out what’s on Vietnamese shrimp producers’ minds and how Genics can help them achieve their goals. 


Photos below and at top: while I was in Vietnam, I took the opportunity to visit Truc Anh BioTech and meet the CEO & Chairman Xuan Anh Le.


Vietnam’s new initiatives in shrimp export markets 

VietShrimp is co-hosted by the Vietnam Fisheries Society (VINAFIS). Talking about the importance of Vietnam’s shrimp industry, VINAFIS Chairman Nguyen Viet Thang said that shrimp is a vital export for his country, delivering nearly US$4 billion to the economy each year. But in 2023, the sector saw an export slump of nearly 20%, caused by rapid modernization by South American and Indian producers. This hardship has prompted Vietnamese industry thought leaders to refocus on their own pathways to expansion through quality assurance and biosecurity credibility. 

In line with their export resurgence goals, the VietShrimp organizers designated the key themes of this year’s conference as technological development, sustainable production, quality assurance, and farming efficiency.   



Vietnam’s shrimp farmers are targeting US$4.3 billion in exports for 2024, a goal dependent on recapturing US and Chinese customers who make up 45% of export value. Return to form in these export markets hinges on taking a competitive stance on biosecurity and quality control, which are high priorities for foreign buyers.  

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phùng Đức Tiến emphasized that Vietnam’s shrimp industry must integrate smoothly with the world economy in coming years. 

“We believe that VietShrimp 2024 will be a bridge between the business community, partners, and customers,” the Deputy Minister said. “It’s a forum for the shrimp industry to connect with the world, with learning experiences and techniques of advanced countries to upgrade the Vietnamese shrimp industry in the future.”  


Photo above: meeting local government officials in Soc Trang Province. 


As I talked to farmers and industry leaders at VietShrimp, it confirmed that the pain points for Vietnamese shrimp producers are closely tied to technology adoption.  

The farmers I talked to are looking for ways to enhance efficiency by optimizing breeding programs for better yield. They also need reliable disease testing technology for very early pathogen detection to prevent catastrophic stock losses from pathogens.  

I had a lot of positive interactions with shrimp producers who could see the connection between Genics technology and the need to implement reliable strategies for product improvement. Genics Comprehensive Shrimp Solutions Suite can support sustainable growth for Vietnam’s farmers, as it has in other parts of Asia and Latin America. 


Genics has export growth solutions for Vietnamese shrimp producers  

Genics has already demonstrated its value as a breeding and biosecurity partner for shrimp producers in Australia, South America, and Indonesia.  

Indonesia’s shrimp industry has many legitimate points of comparison with its Vietnamese counterpart. Both industries are in steep technology adoption phases, and both countries’ producers want to expand their domestic potential onto the world stage. 

Talking with us this year, Henry Wijaya, the chairman of Indonesian shrimp producer Prima Larvae Bali, said that Genics services have proven to be a valuable investment for his company.  

“We have peace of mind, knowing that Genics is an accredited pathogen detection lab. We can also say to our customers that we have external pathogen verification by an internationally recognized provider with a great reputation,” Henry said in a recent case study interview. 

That sentiment aligns with the aspirations of Vietnamese producers right now. In an increasingly competitive export market, Vietnam’s farmers need to deliver shrimp that meet the highest quality standards and are certified disease-free by reliable testing methodologies

Genics industry-leading genetic profiling, digital phenotyping, and pathogen detection technology can give Vietnamese farmers the competitive edge they need. US and Chinese importers are looking for quality assurance standards linked to reliable, state-of-the-art technology, and Genics shrimp services meet that expectation. 

I made many new connections with local producers at VietShrimp and I’m looking forward to helping them get the full export advantages of Genics partnership.  


What can Genics do to help grow your farming business?



About the author: 

Dirk Krueger is a business development & commercial executive with more than twenty-five years of experience in senior strategic leadership roles with global companies. As Chief Commercial Officer at Genics, Dirk works closely with agricultural producers throughout the world to help them realize their productivity goals and grow their businesses. 


Sending shrimp samples to Genics in Australia is fast & easy 

By Reiny Tumbol, Client Success Manager, Genics Indonesia 


Sending test samples to Genics is easy and fast, but some of our customers are initially concerned about the process of sending shrimp samples to our laboratory in Australia. Don’t worry. Our sample shipping process is fast, easy, and secure, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Genics is your most valuable partner in breeding and growing outstanding shrimp and keeping them healthy. We solve the problem of early pathogen detection with our Shrimp MultiPath2.0 testing and enable genetically powered breeding programs with ShrimpID. Our Biosecurity services also help farmers understand where pathogens come from in the first place and allow them to better understand how to prevent them from entering the farming system.

Keep reading for the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about sample shipping. 


How long does it take to send samples from my farm in Indonesia to the Genics laboratory in Australia? 

Shipping samples from Indonesia to the Genics laboratory in Australia only takes 2-3 days, depending on your exact location in Indonesia. So, if you follow our simple submission process, we’ll get results back to you very quickly. 

Sending samples to Genics is easy. 

1. Pack your samples 
Genics can provide barcoded tubes to put your samples in – just add 70% laboratory-grade ethanol. 

Sampling guides and videos are on our website, and our consultants are always available to help you with sample programs and sampling techniques. 

2. Submit & send 
Log your samples on the myGenics web portal, and we will organize the pick-up from your farm. 

3. Get quick results 
Samples ship from Indonesia to Australia with DHL in 2-3 days, so you’ll get fast results.

Learn more about submitting your samples to Genics here


Will my samples stay fresh during shipping? Is sample degradation a problem?

Genics can provide 1 and 2 mL barcoded tubes to put your samples in – just add 70% laboratory-grade ethanol.

Once your sample is preserved in 70% laboratory-grade ethanol, your DNA and RNA are safe. They can be stored at ambient or room temperature for many weeks, and the Shrimp MultiPath assay will maintain its sensitivity and accuracy for your samples.

When preparing your samples for shipping, ensure your sample tubes have less than 30 mL of liquid, are closed (first seal), and are placed in a ziplock plastic bag (second seal), removing all excess air. In a small cardboard box, put your double-sealed samples with enough paper towels to absorb all the liquid if it does leak. Ensure the total volume in your cardboard box is less than 1 liter or 1000 mL.

You’ll register all your shipping parcels on the myGenics customer portal, and they’ll be tracked throughout their journey, every step of the way, to our Accredited Laboratories.

Watch the video below for more information about sample packing:


How do I dissect shrimp to get samples for Genics testing? 

Dissecting shrimp to obtain testing samples is a straightforward process. You only need very simple tools, like scissors and sterile disposable gloves. 

You can watch the short videos below on shrimp dissection to get all the information you need.  

This video explains shrimp lymphoid organ dissection:


Non-destructive pleopod sampling is an easy 3-step process – watch this video to learn how to do it:


This video explains Shrimp MultiPath2.0 target organ dissection:


How can I quickly sterilize my tools when preparing samples? 

All you need to sterilize your sampling tools is a small amount of ethanol, a scouring sponge, a propane gas burner or other hot flame.  

Dipping your tools in ethanol and placing them briefly on an open flame will effectively remove contaminants and pathogens. 

Watch this short video to quickly learn this easy and effective sterilization technique:


How do I tag my shrimp for individual identification? 

When collecting samples for Genics, there are times when you want your pathogen or genotyping data to be linked to specific animals. In this case, it’s important to use a tracking system such as individually numbered eye tags to link your live animal to your digital data. 

This video shows you the easy procedure for applying eye tags to your live shrimp:


How do I register to use myGenics services? 

Registering for the myGenics customer portal is a simple three-step process. Once your organization is registered, we’ll send you the barcoded tubes you need to collect samples. Then, you can log in and track your samples as they’re delivered to us.  

Get started by completing the easy myGenics online registration form here.    


Who can help me get started using Genics services?   

My name is Dr. Reiny Tumbol. I’m the local Genics expert consultant in Indonesia, and I’m available to answer all your questions about shrimp health, pathogen testing, breeding programs, and sample shipping. 

Please get in touch with me, and I’ll be delighted to help: reiny.tumbol@genics.com.au



About the Author 

Dr. Reiny Tumbol is Genics Client Success Manager in Indonesia. An Indonesian local now living in North Sulawesi, she has more than 30 years of experience in Aquaculture. Reiny studied at top-tier Australian Universities, gaining extensive knowledge and experience in aquaculture and fisheries. She is passionate about helping Indonesia’s Shrimp farmers optimize their animal health and breeding program outcomes. 


Visit the Genics shrimp solutions page to discover all our health, biosecurity, and breeding optimization services:



ACUACAM 2024: Genics presents cutting-edge shrimp production technology in Mexico 

By Michelle Vintimilla 


Last week, the aquaculture industry gathered at Mexico’s ACUACAM 2024.  

Representing Genics at ACUACAM were myself, Dr. Jeremy Brawner, Genics Head of Genetic Solutions, who traveled from Florida for the event, and our local Genics representative in Mexico, Luis Raymundo. 

While we were at the conference, we delivered an informative presentation and had the opportunity to meet with many interesting people, all passionate about the future of shrimp farming in the Americas. 

(Photo above, left to right: me – Michelle Vintimilla, Genics Client Success Manager, Latin America – Dr. Jeremy Brawner, Genics Head of Genetic Solutions, and Luis Raymundo, Genics México) 


Sharing new ideas and practical skills 

Jeremy and I gave a keynote talk at ACUACAM, emphasizing the importance of early pathogen detection and genomic breeding management in uplifting shrimp farming productivity.  

We also hosted a hands-on workshop on shrimp dissection for PCR pathogen analysis. This skill is vital for farmers, shrimp farm staff, and aquaculture health technicians who want to get the most out of testing and laboratory services. It was a great experience sharing knowledge and practical skills that can make such a big difference in shrimp producer’s productivity. If you missed our presentation, you can find educational videos about sample dissection on the Genics website. 


(Photo above: me hosting sample dissection workshop for ACUACAM attendees.) 


Throughout ACUACAM, people were especially interested in hearing about Genics’ latest technological innovations, like Shrimp MultiPath2.0, our new digital phenotyping system, genotyping services, and breeding programs. 


Shrimp MultiPath2.0 is now available for customers in the Americas 

Genics R&D department has introduced services in 2024 that dramatically raise the bar on testing speed, accuracy, and commercial accessibility.   

The introduction of Genics Shrimp MultiPath2.0 is a significant leap forward in early warning pathogen detection. Releasing this latest iteration of our groundbreaking testing service enables the simultaneous detection of 18 shrimp pathogens by a single test, the new industry benchmark.  

Shrimp MultiPath2.0 offers unrivaled sensitivity and accuracy, and with laboratory data turnaround times of five days or less, it offers shrimp farmers in Latin America an unprecedented ability to prevent disease outbreaks. 

You can find out more about Shrimp MultiPath2.0 here. 


Advanced Digital Phenotyping 

Jeremy and I gave the ACUACAM crowd a sneak preview of Genics’ latest tech R&D: an innovative system for digital shrimp phenotyping, leveraging AI to produce sophisticated, rich data outputs. Coupled with Genics ShrimpID genotyping services, this new technology will give our customers the most detailed shrimp pedigree information currently available. As well as facilitating advanced breeding program management, this groundbreaking system will enable genetically-based disease resistance. Genics will be launching this new service shortly, so be sure to sign up for updates


Genics is all about helping shrimp farmers grow their business 

Reflecting on our recent experience at ACUACAM, Jeremy and I were both so happy to be able to interact directly with this energetic and forward-looking community. There’s so much enthusiasm to propel the shrimp industry to new technological heights, and Genics is proud to be at the forefront of that growth.  

Farmers partner with Genics because we’re committed to being the most accurate, fastest, and most innovative aquaculture service provider. We’re also fully aware that every farm has its own unique goals and challenges, so we tailor our services to the needs of each individual customer.  


Hi, I’m Michelle Vintimilla

I’m Genics Client Success Manager in Latin America. I’m based in Ecuador, and I look after Genics’ customers throughout the Americas, North to South. I earned my Master’s Degree in Aquaculture from Ghent University, Belgium, and I have many years of industry experience in shrimp grow-out production, health management, and breeding programs.   

Let’s talk about how Genics can increase your farm’s productivity. Please book a free consultation. 

Apply now for Genics Shrimp Health Masterclass, Indonesia 

By Reiny Tumbol. 


I’m very proud to announce that Genics and Sam Ratulangi University are collaborating to present the Genics Shrimp Health Masterclass Course 2024. This is a unique opportunity for professionals in the Indonesian shrimp industry to learn new advanced skills with expert instructors. 

The Genics Shrimp Health Masterclass Course 2024 follows the tremendous success of our prior 2023 Sustainable Shrimp Aquaculture Course, which we co-hosted with the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia.  


Course highlights 

Participants in this masterclass course will delve into advanced techniques in: 

  • Shrimp pathogen detection technology 
  • Shrimp genomic analysis 
  • Breeding program strategy 
  • Advanced shrimp health management 
  • Scientific breeding optimization 
  • Latest techniques in farm biosecurity  
  • Professional laboratory techniques 
  • Aquaculture management 

The course also includes an onsite grow-out farm visit for all participants to observe operations in a real-world setting. 

Tailored for individuals working in the shrimp industry, this comprehensive course aims to empower participants with cutting-edge knowledge and strategies to propel their careers forward. 

A Certificate of Achievement will be presented to all Students who complete the Genics Shrimp Health Masterclass Course 2024. 


Course details: 

  • Dates: 4 – 9 March 2024  
  • Location: Sam Ratulangi University, Unsrat Campus, Manado, IDN

Application and further information 

Don’t miss out on this chance to advance your career in the ever-evolving landscape of shrimp health. Join us at the Genics Shrimp Health Masterclass Course 2024 for an immersive learning experience at the intersection of career and innovation.  

To apply for this exclusive masterclass course, please click here.


About the Author 

Dr. Reiny Tumbol is Genics Client Success Manager in Indonesia. An Indonesian local now living in North Sulawesi, she has more than 30 years of experience in Aquaculture. Reiny studied at top-tier Australian Universities, gaining extensive knowledge and experience in aquaculture and fisheries. She is passionate about helping Indonesia’s Shrimp farmers optimize their animal health and breeding program outcomes. 

(Image at top: 2023 Shrimp Health Course in Australia – Photos Copyright the University of Queensland & Genics, taken at the joint UQ & Genics program on Sustainable Shrimp Aquaculture at the University of Queensland.)


  

Celebrate National Prawn Day – Australia

At Genics, we’re proud to be part of the global prawn (shrimp) farming community.

That’s why we’re excited to support National Prawn Day Australia, celebrating our hardworking aquaculture friends.

Prawns are a crucial source of protein for a growing world population, and we’re committed to helping farmers produce healthy, high-performance stocks to make this nutritious food widely available.

National Prawn Day is an industry-led initiative, showcasing the many delicious, easy and healthy ways we can include protein rich prawns in our regular diets.