Project Summary
In the North Central Region (NCR), demand for Golden Shiner (GOS), Notemigonus cryloseucas, used as bait exceeds production. For example, GOS production in Minnesota has decreased by approximately 37,854 L (10,000 gallons) or 36,287 kg (80,000 pounds) from 2018 to 2022. Bait importation is prohibited in Minnesota to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species and fish pathogens. However, pressure to allow importation is increasing. Bait production throughout the NCR is challenged by declines in wild minnow populations, a short growing season, spread of invasive species, and increasing regulations that restrict wild harvest.
A solution to these challenges is to transition from wild harvest to indoor production in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) or aquaponic systems. Recent work by Minnesota Sea Grant (MNSG) has shown that raising GOS fully or partially indoors allows growers to produce market sized fish within eight to ten months instead of the two years required in unmanaged ponds. We propose to increase the efficiency of indoor production by experimenting with early life stage feeds and determining optimal fish density for GOS grown indoors. In addition, we will develop an outreach program engaging middle and high school teachers and students in baitfish aquaculture.
Objectives
1. Determine the most effective method to transition Golden Shiner (GOS) sac fry to commercially available dry feeds.
2. Determine which commercially available feed provides optimal growth to post-feed-trained GOS fry.
3. Determine what density of GOS feed-trained fry in tanks provides optimal growth, survival, and production.
4. Demonstrate grow-out of post-feed-trained GOS fry in a production sized recirculating aquaculture system (RAS).
5. Work with middle and high school teachers and students to grow GOS in the classroom and engage students in collecting data that directly support the project.
Duration: 2 Years
Participants
PI: Amy Schrank, University of Minnesota Sea Grant
Co-PI: Julianne Grenn, University of Minnesota Sea Grant
Co-PI: Donald Schreiner, University of Minnesota Sea Grant
Co-PI: Emma Hauser, Wisconsin Sea Grant/University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Co-PI: Allen Pattillo, Aquaculture IQ, LLC
Extension Liaison: Julianne Grenn, University of Minnesota Sea Grant
Industry Liaison: Marc Tye, Tye Fish Solutions
Project Outline
Award Amount
$269,796
Award Number
2024-38500-42307, $136,645 (Year 1)
2025-38500- 45290, $133,151 (Year 2)
