Surge in Vannamei shrimp seed prices hits aqua ryots

Farmers seek govt intervention to regulate prices and financial aid

- D SURENDRA KUMAR @ Nellore

THE steady rise in Vannamei shrimp seed prices has become a major concern for aqua farmers in the region. Until recently, shrimp seed was available at affordable rates, but increasing demand for high-quality seed and broodstock has driven up prices, making shrimp farming less viable for many farmers.

Previously, Vannamei shrimp seed was priced at 30 paise per seed in hatcheries across the erstwhile Nellore district. However, citing quality concerns, hatcheries have now increased the price to over 41 paise per seed. With prices rising almost daily, farmers are left uncertain about whether shrimp farming will remain profitable.