by Shenequa Williams

As part of the Agriculture Summer Internship Programme, interns visited SeaSprings Aqua Farm, where they received an engaging presentation from aquaculture farmer Mr. Kevin Alexander, who has been involved in freshwater aquaculture for the past 10 years. He shared his knowledge and experience in sustainable fish farming in Antigua and Barbuda.

Mr. Alexander introduced the interns to the Giant River Prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii), a species originating in Thailand that is now farmed in Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, and parts of Jamaica. He also showcased the Australian Red Claw Crayfish, commonly known as a freshwater lobster.

During the tour, interns learned that maintaining excellent water quality is essential to successful aquaculture. Mr. Alexander explained that poor water conditions can stress aquatic animals and that regular water changes are often the solution to many problems. He also demonstrated the farm’s filtration system, which keeps the water clean without the use of soil, allowing for a controlled and efficient growing environment.

The interns learned that the prawns are raised using organic practices, with no additional chemicals or nutrients added to the water. They were also introduced to the different types of feed used on the farm, with prawns receiving sinking pellets and fish such as tilapia being fed floating pellets.

The farm also featured tilapia, lobster, koi fish, sea urchins, and parrotfish. Mr. Alexander explained that the parrotfish are kept in the same tank as the Giant River Prawns and Australian Red Claw Crayfish because they help control tadpole populations.

Mr. Alexander also explained the Giant River Prawn’s life cycle, noting that while it lives in freshwater, it requires brackish water to reproduce. Interns learned about the hatchery, nursery, and grow-out stages, as well as the aggressive nature of the species, which requires careful feeding and management to prevent cannibalism.

The interns had the opportunity to observe and hold mature prawns, gaining a firsthand appreciation of freshwater aquaculture and the techniques involved in raising these species successfully.

The visit concluded with Mr. Alexander sharing his vision of expanding aquaculture in Antigua and Barbuda through sustainable practices, including the development of hatcheries to support local fisheries.

The experience provided interns with valuable hands-on knowledge of freshwater aquaculture while highlighting its potential to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural sector.