TASK 1: One of your requirements for the quarter is to complete an online learning course in

Aquaculture. It is your task now to search on online courses or seminars currently available
where you can enroll or participate. Do not limit your search to the ones provided in this learning
guide. You are free to enroll in any online course /webinar as long as it is directly related to the
conduct of aquaculture. Once you have successfully enrolled in a course, provide the following
information in the forum created by your teacher in the KHub:

TITLE OF ONLINE COURSE/WEBINARS:

1. Webinar: Salmon Outlook in the Pandemic World

2. Expedition What's The Catch? Virtual Field Trip: seaweed Farming 101
3. Nutrition and Beyond Challenges Faced by Global Shrimp Industry by Olivier Decamp

AGENCY PROVIDER: INVE Aquaculture, EarthEco International, UnderCurrent News

NUMBER OF HOURS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE: 2:30:17 (approx. 3 hrs.)
START DATE: April 11, 2024
END DATE: April 13, 2024

PLAYLIST LINK: Aquaculture Webinars

TASK 2: Complete your chosen online course/webinar and submit your certificate/s of
completion/participation in the assignment bin provided by your teacher in the KHub. Details on
the deadline of submission and reflection paper shall be negotiated with your teacher.

REFLECTION PAPER

In the wake of the pandemic, the aquaculture sector, particularly the global salmon and shrimp
industry, faced unprecedented challenges. Salmon and shrimp, two of the most sought-after
seafood products globally, encountered disruptions in production, distribution, and demand. The
closure of restaurants, catering services, and hospitality establishments significantly impacted
the market for these products. Consequently, aquaculture businesses had to adapt swiftly to
survive in an uncertain economic climate.

The global salmon industry, heavily reliant on exports, experienced fluctuations in demand due
to travel restrictions and changes in consumer behavior. Decreased consumption in key
markets, such as restaurants and sushi bars, led to an oversupply of salmon in some regions.
As a result, prices plummeted, causing financial strain on producers and suppliers. In response,
companies implemented strategies to mitigate losses, including reducing production,
renegotiating contracts, and exploring alternative distribution channels.

Similarly, the shrimp industry faced disruptions throughout the supply chain, from hatcheries to
processing plants. Lockdown measures and labor shortages impeded operations, affecting both
freshwater and marine shrimp farming. Export-oriented countries, such as Thailand, India, and
Ecuador, grappled with logistical challenges and decreased demand from major importing
nations. To adapt, shrimp producers diversified their markets, expanded domestic sales, and
invested in technology to enhance efficiency and resilience.

Amidst these challenges, seaweed farming emerged as a promising opportunity for

diversification and sustainability in aquaculture. Seaweed cultivation offers several advantages,
including rapid growth, minimal environmental impact, and versatility in applications. As a rich
source of nutrients and bioactive compounds, seaweed holds immense potential for food, feed,
pharmaceuticals, and bioplastics industries. Moreover, seaweed farming can complement
existing aquaculture practices by providing habitat, improving water quality, and mitigating
climate change through carbon sequestration.

The pandemic underscored the importance of resilience and innovation in the aquaculture
sector. Companies that embraced technology, adapted their business models, and prioritized
sustainability were better equipped to navigate the challenges and seize opportunities. Moving
forward, collaboration among stakeholders, investment in research and development, and policy
support will be crucial for fostering a resilient and sustainable aquaculture industry. By
addressing the complex interplay of economic, social, and environmental factors, aquaculture
can contribute to food security, economic development, and environmental stewardship in a
post-pandemic world.