The occurrence of the brine shrimp, Artemia franciscana (Kellog 1906) in Kenya and the potential economic impacts among Kenyan coastal communities

Abstract

The occurrence of Artemia populations in Kenyan coast is a noble happening. However, much information is lacking concerning its exploitation for Larviculture. This paper reviews inoculation of Artemia in the Kenyan coast and the potential benefits it holds for the local communities. The eight salt works along the Kenyan coast are credited for Artemia production since Artemia franciscana was first inoculated in Kenya 2 decades ago. The Kenyan Artemia is genetically similar to those from San Francisco Bay and Great Salt Lake, which are so far considered standard in aquaculture nutrition. The Kenyan Artemia strain has adapted to the local environmental conditions and is reproductively superior to the original inoculants. Optimization and application of Artemia in local Larviculture initiatives stands between aquaculture successes in Kenya. Indeed, Artemia is the neglected asset that can improve people’s economy. Further studies are required to educate the locals on the potential economic gains from Artemia.