Current status of the giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) industry in China, with special reference to live transportation

Abstract

The giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii was first introduced into mainland China by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences from Japan in 1976. It was cultured at the Guangdong Province Fishery Institute (now as Pearl River Fishery Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences). Following these early efforts, giant freshwater prawn culture has gradually spread to northern and inland areas. At this time (2011), China has become the largest producer of giant freshwater prawn in the world. Due to a preference of cooking with fresh aquatic products, Chinese retail markets have developed which have special live-holding counters. From small rural shops to urban supermarkets and specialty restaurants, live seafoods are commonly available whereby customers pick out the products they wish to purchase and consume. Giant freshwater prawns are produced in over 35 countries throughout the world. They are usually sold either fresh, on-ice, or frozen. What makes the Chinese prawn industry unique is its focus on a live transportation and marketing model. As a result, numerous innovative live-transport technologies have been developed which have been key to the success of this expanding domestic industry. In this article, we would like to give a general overview of the giant freshwater prawn industry, its status in China, and the special role live-transportation has for expanding production of giant freshwater prawns.