Vannamei Shrimp Welfare in Latin American Aquaculture

Ecuador and other Latin American countries have become major vannamei shrimp producers with growing attention to welfare in a sector facing sustainability and certification pressures.

Key Facts

Ecuador became the world's largest shrimp exporter, producing over 1 million tonnes annually
Latin American production uses extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive pond systems
Certification under Best Aquaculture Practices and ASC is growing in the sector
Eyestalk ablation of broodstock is less common in Latin American production than in Asian systems
Early mortality syndrome has affected Latin American production intermittently

Welfare Considerations

Vannamei shrimp welfare in Latin American aquaculture benefits from somewhat lower stocking densities in traditional semi-intensive pond systems compared to intensively managed Asian systems. However, the rapid intensification of Ecuador's sector has introduced higher density production with associated welfare risks. Certification scheme penetration is relatively high in Latin America due to export market requirements, creating incentives for welfare improvement. The relative rarity of eyestalk ablation in some Latin American broodstock operations represents a welfare advantage over some Asian producing regions. Disease management practices and harvest welfare remain important areas for improvement. The industry's export orientation creates leverage for welfare improvements through buyer requirements.

What You Can Do

Choose Latin American certified shrimp where available as a potentially higher welfare option
Support certification schemes that include welfare criteria for vannamei shrimp
Engage with retailers about their Latin American shrimp sourcing standards and welfare commitments
Stay informed about welfare developments in the rapidly growing Ecuadorean shrimp sector