Spotlight on pompano in Nha Trang
Pham Phuong Linh (Nha Trang University) Reports on their Open Philanthropy Supported Research Initiative
In Vietnam’s small-scale aquaculture sector, fish welfare is often overlooked, despite its importance for both animal well-being and farming success. That’s why a new research project focused on juvenile pompano (Trachinotus blochii) is making waves in the coastal city of Nha Trang. This project, part of the Improving Aquatic Animal Welfare in Asia initiative, is the first of its kind in the region and aims to shine a light on the need for better welfare practices in Vietnam's growing mariculture industry.
A Team United by a Common Goal
Dr. Ngo Van Manh (NTU), an expert in marine seed production in Vietnam is holding a pompano broodstock, preparing for artificial propagation
Led by the Institute for Aquaculture at Nha Trang University (NTU) - Vietnam, in collaboration with Can Tho University (CTU) - Vietnam and Charles Darwin University (CDU) - Australia, the research team combines expertise in fish health, behaviour, and welfare. Together, they’re tackling the challenges of a sector that’s crucial for local economies but lacks standardized fish welfare practices.
Pompano, prized for its rapid growth and high market value, is becoming a key species for small-scale farmers. However, without proper welfare guidelines, farmers face risks that could affect both fish health and farm productivity. This project seeks to close that gap, ensuring better outcomes for both farmers and fish.
Initial meeting among researchers in October 2024: Mr. John Bostock and Dr. Simão Zacarias - Management board of Project "Improving Fish Welfare in Asia", Stirling University UK and Ms. Pham Phuong Linh from NTU, Vietnam (the left picture); Prof. Tran Minh Phu - CTU and Prof. Sunil Kadri - CDU (the upper right picture) and Dr. Vu Trong Dai - NTU research team leader (the lower right picture)
Progress So Far: Laying the Foundation
The project has already designed a comprehensive research framework, including a survey to gather insights from stakeholders along the pompano supply chain. Pilot surveys have also been conducted, laying a solid foundation for more detailed fieldwork to come.
Pilot survey: Interviewing farmers (left) and observing the worker practice at the hatchery with cemen tanks system (right)
Dr. Simão Zacarias from Stirling University visiting Institute of Aquaculture to monitor and support NTU research team in January 2025 ( left to right: Ms Phạm Thi Anh, Dr. Vu Trong Đại T. Vũ, Simão Zacarias, Le Thanh Cường and Pham Phuong Linh) (left) and group meeting: reviewing research framework; analysing results from pilot survey and revising questionnaire (right)
What’s Next: Raising Awareness and Sharing Knowledge
In the months ahead, the team will conduct extensive field surveys and workshops with local farmers to better understand current practices and share best welfare practices. The project also plans to publish an article in a peer-reviewed journal to share our results with academic community. By focusing on species like pompano, the project hopes to not only improve animal welfare but also promote more sustainable and profitable practices for small-scale farmers across Vietnam.
Visiting hachery with pond system
Why It Matters
This project is about more than just science—it’s about making tangible changes that benefit both fish and farmers. Healthier, well-cared-for fish lead to more stable farm operations and stronger local economies. As the project continues, the goal is to inspire a shift toward ethical, welfare-conscious aquaculture practices, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for all involved.
Join us on this journey toward better fish welfare in Vietnam’s aquaculture sector. Together, we can make a meaningful difference!