Recent Major Advances of Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture in China

Abstract

Background: Global aquaculture production has increased continuously over the last five decades, and particularly in China. Its aquaculture has become the fastest growing and most efficient agri-sector, with production accounting for more than 70% of the world's aquaculture output. In the new century, with serious challenges regarding population, resources and the environment, China has been working to develop high-quality, effective, healthy, and sustainable blue agriculture through the application of modern biotechnology. Sound knowledge related to the biology and ecology of aquatic organisms has laid a solid foundation and provided the innovation and technology for rapid development of the aquaculture industry. Marine biotechnology, which is enabling solutions for ocean productivity and sustainability, has been promoted since the last decades of the 20th Century in China.

Objective: In this article, priority areas of research, mainly genetic breeding, omics studies, novel production systems, biosecurity, bioprocesses and biorefinery, as well as the major progress of marine biotechnology R&D in China are reviewed.

Conclusion: Current innovative achievements in China are not enough and the level and frequency of academic advancements must be improved. International cooperation and assistance remain crucial for the success of marine biotechnology.

Keywords: Aquaculture; Bioprocesses and biorefinery; Biosecurity; China; Genetic breeding; Marine biotechnology; Novel production systems; Omics study.

Fig. (1)

Mariculture production of China in 2010.

Fig. (2)

Area and location of Chinese mariculture in 2010.

Fig. (3)

Yields of various Chinese captured and cultured aquatic products in 2012 and 2013. (unit: Tonnes).

Fig. (4)

Rates of the methods used for novel aquatic varieties approved in China.

Fig. (5)

A typical intensive shrimp culture system (High-Located Pond) in Hainan Province.

Fig. (6)

Modern Industrial Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS).

Fig. (7)

Some new RAS facilities and equipment have been developed by IOCAS.

Fig. (8)

Five Novel Production Systems have been spread across the coastline of China.