Advancing Aquaculture Science in Kenya
KMFRI's Aquaculture Laboratory conducts cutting-edge research on fish breeding, hatchery management, fish nutrition, and water quality optimisation to support the rapid expansion of Kenya's aquaculture sector. The facility produces broodstock and fingerlings for research trials and studies the genetic diversity of cultured species to improve production performance.
Research Focus Areas
Hatchery Operations
Induced spawning, egg incubation, and larval rearing trials for Nile tilapia, African catfish, trout, and selected marine species.
Feed Research
Development and evaluation of locally-sourced, cost-effective feeds using insect meal, black soldier fly larvae, and plant proteins to reduce reliance on imported fishmeal.
Genetics & Selective Breeding
Molecular genetics and selective breeding programmes to develop fast-growing, disease-resistant strains for Kenya's aquaculture industry.
Water Quality Management
Continuous monitoring and optimisation of pond and tank water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen, ammonia, pH, and temperature.
Laboratory Equipment
- Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS)
- Egg incubation jars (McDonald type)
- Larval rearing tanks (100L-1000L)
- Flow-through pond units
- Compound & stereo microscopes
- YSI multi-parameter water quality probe
- Feed pellet extruder & dryer
- Kjeldahl protein analyser
- PCR thermocycler
- Gel electrophoresis system
- Haematocrit centrifuge
- Precision scales & ichthyometers