Fish Seed Production for National Development in Kenya: Current Status, Challenges, Quality Control and Innovative Strategies for Commercialization

Abstract

From only two fish hatcheries at independence to the current number of more than 50, Kenya has achieved a milestone in aquaculture production and development. Investments in sustainable exploitation of Blue economy for national economic growth provide further impetus for seed production. Cage culture of tilapia in Lake Victoria requires use of all-male seed, whose achievement is still a challenge, and demands more innovative strategies. Therefore, production of adequate and high quality fish seed in Kenya is vital as it provides livelihood and incomes to farmers, reduces exploitation pressure on natural fisheries, and facilitates expansion and commercialization of aquaculture for food and nutrition security. This chapter reviews current seed production strategies and systems in Kenya, including quality control measures and some of the strategies that could help improve production, availability and quality of fish seed for the main cultured species in Kenya for commercialization of aquaculture. Improved practices at hatcheries, strict control of importation of live fish in to the country as well as better husbandry practices at fry nurseries and farms could help improve the quality and quantity of fish seed for expanded aquaculture in Kenya.