USDA 103 catfish, a variety that grows faster than other tested catfish, ready for harvest. USDA's Agricultural Research Services have created new diets from sustainable, plant-derived proteins Photo: Peggy Greb/USDA

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are making progress in promoting the development of alternative aquaculture feeds.

Scientists from the USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) have developed new diets from sustainable, plant-derived proteins. Other projects involved breeding fish that can thrive on alternative feed ingredients. Researchers have also developed online tools and programs to help feed manufacturers choose appropriate materials for nutritious, digestible feed.

Jeff Silverstein, leader of ARS National Program for Aquaculture, comments: "This partnership is an important step in the development of alternative aquaculture feed ingredients."

The USDA's Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (CSREES) was also involved in the initiative.

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