Analysis on the development and current situation of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) farming in Mexico

Abstract

AbstractThe rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), originally from North America, was introduced to Mexico in 1888 and gradually distributed to various areas of the country. Currently, rainbow trout are cultivated in Mexico under a number of production systems, but this sector has grown less than 1% annually for the last 10 years. The present review analysed the production status of rainbow trout in Mexico, describing the key situations and actors that have influenced the establishment and current level of aquaculture development. Since its beginnings, rainbow trout cultivation in Mexico has depended on egg import due to insufficient egg and fry production by national hatcheries. Moreover, the industry is deficient in regard to a number of aspects in the production and management processes, with a notable necessity for specialists in the areas of production, health and sanitary diagnosis to rapidly and efficiently respond to situations such as low productivity or the presence of diseases. With such specialists, appropriate control and prevention decisions could be taken and acted upon. Likewise, the Mexican rainbow trout industry has high development potential and market expectations, but sector growth will require the active participation and commitment of competent authorities, in compliance with established Mexican regulations and laws, which are oriented towards advancing and protecting the fish farming industry.