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NATIONAL CENTRE FOR AQUATIC ANIMAL HEALTH
Cochin University of Science and Technology, Lakeside Campus, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi – 682016, Kerala, India
valsamma@cusat.ac.in
0484-286 3806
Dr. Prem Kumar, a Senior Scientist in the Finfish Culture Division at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), is recognized for his contributions to finfish aquaculture and sustainable fish farming practices. His research focuses on advancing breeding, seed production, and grow-out techniques for economically important finfish species, essential for enhancing fish farming efficiency and profitability. Dr. Kumar has been instrumental in developing improved methods for breeding and rearing native fish species, supporting biodiversity conservation while boosting aquaculture productivity in India.
One of Dr. Kumar’s notable achievements is his work in the area of seed production technology, which addresses one of the primary challenges in aquaculture—reliable and high-quality seed supply. His innovations in hatchery management and nursery techniques have significantly increased survival rates and growth performance in key species, directly benefiting fish farmers. Additionally, his research on sustainable feed formulations and water quality management has contributed to more eco-friendly and cost-effective practices.
Dr. Kumar’s outreach efforts include training programs for farmers and aquaculture professionals, spreading knowledge on best practices and sustainable techniques. His contributions are vital to India’s aquaculture industry, promoting the responsible expansion of finfish farming to meet the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable seafood.
Dr. David Verner-Jeffreys is a Senior Scientist at WorldFish and an esteemed expert in aquatic animal health and aquaculture biosecurity. With a background in fish pathology and disease management, Dr. Verner-Jeffreys has dedicated his career to developing solutions that enhance disease prevention and sustainable health practices in aquaculture systems globally. His research focuses on combating infectious diseases that impact fish farming, particularly in developing countries, where aquaculture plays a crucial role in food security and livelihoods.
A key aspect of Dr. Verner-Jeffreys’ work is the development of diagnostic tools and health management protocols that enable early detection and effective control of pathogens in aquaculture. His contributions include pioneering biosecurity measures and alternatives to antibiotic use, promoting environmentally friendly approaches to disease control. His research in microbial ecology and vaccine development for aquatic species has significantly reduced disease outbreaks, improving productivity and sustainability within the industry.
Dr. Verner-Jeffreys collaborates with governments, NGOs, and industry partners to promote knowledge-sharing and implement best practices across diverse aquaculture settings. His efforts are highly valued for advancing sustainable, responsible aquaculture practices worldwide, fostering resilience and supporting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers while enhancing the global supply of safe, high-quality seafood.
Dr. M. Shashi Shekhar, is a distinguished expert in aquatic animal health and environmental management in brackishwater aquaculture. With extensive experience in fish and shrimp health management, his work addresses critical challenges in disease prevention, environmental sustainability, and biosecurity, contributing to the growth and resilience of India’s brackishwater aquaculture sector. By emphasizing biosecurity, environmental monitoring, and eco-friendly health management practices, Dr. Shekhar has contributed to enhancing the resilience and sustainability of shrimp and fish farming.
Dr. Shekhar’s research focuses on understanding disease dynamics, developing diagnostic tools, and creating effective management strategies for major pathogens affecting farmed shrimp and fish. His pioneering work on early disease detection and health management protocols has been instrumental in reducing disease-related losses, thereby enhancing productivity and profitability for aquaculture farmers. He also promotes the use of probiotics, immunostimulants, and other sustainable practices to reduce reliance on antibiotics, supporting both animal health and environmental sustainability and encouraging eco-friendly disease management solutions. His expertise has been crucial in managing diseases like white spot disease and vibriosis, which can cause substantial losses for farmers.
Dr. Shekhar is also a key figure in advancing environmental monitoring practices in aquaculture, ensuring that farming activities have minimal impact on surrounding ecosystems.
Dr. K.V. Rajendran is a prominent aquaculture scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE) in India, recognized for his expertise in fish health management and aquatic animal disease control. With a focus on advancing disease diagnostics, biosecurity, and sustainable health practices in aquaculture, Dr. Rajendran’s work has greatly contributed to improving the resilience and productivity of India’s aquaculture sector. His research addresses major challenges related to fish and shellfish health, particularly in diagnosing and managing viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases that impact farmed species.
One of Dr. Rajendran’s significant contributions is the development of rapid diagnostic tools for early detection of pathogens, which has allowed fish farmers to respond swiftly to disease threats, reducing mortality rates and economic losses. His emphasis on biosecurity and environmentally responsible disease management has also led to protocols that reduce reliance on antibiotics, promoting safer and more sustainable aquaculture practices.
In addition to his research, Dr. Rajendran is a respected mentor and educator, training the next generation of aquaculture scientists and professionals in India. Through his publications, outreach, and collaborations with research institutions, Dr. Rajendran’s work has had a lasting impact on sustainable aquaculture development, benefiting both the industry and aquatic ecosystems.
Dr. T. Raja Swaminathan is a renowned scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) in Kochi, India, with expertise in fish health management, aquaculture biosecurity, and disease diagnostics. His work focuses on addressing challenges related to aquatic animal health, particularly in ensuring sustainable and safe practices in India’s aquaculture industry. Dr. Swaminathan is recognized for his contributions to the detection and control of fish and shellfish diseases, which are critical for enhancing productivity and reducing economic losses in aquaculture.
At ICAR-CIFT, Dr. Swaminathan has been instrumental in developing innovative diagnostic methods for early detection of pathogens in aquaculture systems. His research has emphasized the importance of biosecurity measures, helping aquaculture farms implement practices that prevent disease outbreaks and promote healthy, resilient fish stocks. Dr. Swaminathan’s work also supports the reduction of antibiotic usage in aquaculture, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
As a mentor, he has guided numerous researchers and students in aquatic health science, strengthening India’s capacity in this crucial area. His extensive publications and expertise in aquaculture health management have contributed significantly to the growth of sustainable aquaculture practices in India, benefiting both industry and environmental conservation.
Dr. Neeraj Sood, a distinguished scientist at the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR) in India, is recognized for his work in fish genetics, conservation, and sustainable aquaculture practices. His research focuses on the genetic characterization and conservation of fish biodiversity, which is critical for protecting valuable genetic resources and promoting sustainable aquaculture. By identifying and cataloging fish species and their genetic diversity, Dr. Sood has contributed to the preservation of native fish species, ensuring that these resources can support resilient and productive aquaculture systems in India.
One of Dr. Sood’s notable contributions is his work on genetic improvement programs aimed at enhancing the growth, disease resistance, and overall quality of aquaculture species. Through selective breeding and genetic analysis, his research has helped develop strains of fish that are better suited to farming conditions, benefiting aquaculture productivity while maintaining genetic integrity. Dr. Sood’s work also addresses biosecurity and the mitigation of invasive species threats, which are crucial for safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.
In addition to his research, Dr. Sood is an advocate for the sustainable management of genetic resources in fisheries and aquaculture. His efforts have had a lasting impact on India’s aquaculture policies, supporting biodiversity conservation and the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry.
Dr. Anas Abdulaziz, a Senior Principal Scientist at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO) in India, is a prominent researcher known for his contributions to marine biology and sustainable aquaculture development. His work focuses on marine ecosystem health, aquaculture sustainability, and the conservation of aquatic resources. Dr. Abdulaziz’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of how marine environments can support sustainable aquaculture practices without compromising ecosystem integrity.
One of Dr. Abdulaziz’s key areas of expertise is in the assessment of marine water quality and its implications for aquaculture, especially in open-sea and coastal aquaculture systems. His studies on environmental parameters and the carrying capacity of water bodies help optimize site selection and resource management for aquaculture, reducing the impact on natural ecosystems. His work also supports the development of sustainable aquaculture models that integrate well with the surrounding marine environment, particularly for species like fish, bivalves, and seaweeds.
Dr. Abdulaziz is also deeply involved in policy advisory roles, providing insights into regulatory frameworks for environmentally sound aquaculture practices. Through his research, publications, and outreach, he has made substantial contributions to India’s marine aquaculture sector, promoting practices that ensure economic viability while protecting ocean health.
Dr. B. Santhosh, a leading scientist at the Vizhinjam Regional Centre of the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI), is known for his impactful contributions to marine aquaculture and coastal fisheries development in India. His work focuses on advancing sustainable practices in mariculture, particularly in seed production, hatchery technology, and the cultivation of high-value marine species like finfish, shellfish, and sea cucumbers. Dr. Santhosh’s research has played a critical role in supporting livelihood opportunities for coastal communities by promoting aquaculture as a viable and environmentally sustainable industry.
One of his notable contributions is the development of hatchery protocols that ensure the availability of quality seed stock, crucial for the success of marine farming systems. He has also worked extensively on popularizing cage culture and other mariculture techniques in coastal regions, helping fishers and farmers diversify their income sources while reducing fishing pressure on wild stocks.
In addition to his technical innovations, Dr. Santhosh is deeply involved in capacity-building initiatives, training local communities, researchers, and extension workers in sustainable aquaculture practices. His efforts have supported the growth of a sustainable mariculture sector in India, enhancing food security and economic stability for coastal populations, while promoting responsible resource management.
Dr. Victoria Alday-Sanz is a renowned aquaculture expert at National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA) in Saudi Arabia, recognized globally for her work in shrimp health management, biosecurity, and sustainable aquaculture practices. With a background in veterinary science and extensive experience in aquatic animal health, Dr. Alday-Sanz has played a critical role in advancing shrimp farming practices to enhance productivity while maintaining rigorous biosecurity standards. Her work is instrumental in addressing major health challenges in shrimp aquaculture, particularly in the prevention and management of viral and bacterial diseases that can impact large-scale operations.
At NAQUA, Dr. Alday-Sanz has implemented innovative health management and biosecurity programs designed to prevent disease outbreaks and promote sustainable farming practices. Her research and applied expertise have led to the development of robust disease monitoring systems and management protocols that are widely regarded as industry benchmarks for shrimp farming.
Dr. Alday-Sanz is also a leading advocate for sustainable aquaculture, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while ensuring economic viability. Her contributions extend beyond NAQUA, as she frequently collaborates with international experts, shares insights through publications, and participates in forums to promote best practices. Her work continues to influence shrimp farming practices worldwide, supporting a more resilient and sustainable aquaculture industry.
Prof. Sophie St-Hilaire, a professor at City University of Hong Kong, is a globally recognized expert in aquaculture health management, known for her pioneering research on fish disease epidemiology and sustainable aquaculture practices. Her work focuses on understanding and mitigating the spread of infectious diseases in aquaculture systems, which is crucial for maintaining productivity and supporting global food security. Prof. St-Hilaire’s research combines field studies with advanced statistical modeling to assess disease risks and develop targeted prevention and control strategies, benefiting aquaculture industries worldwide.
She has made significant contributions to the study of emerging diseases in aquaculture, particularly in high-density farming systems where health management is challenging. By investigating host-pathogen interactions and environmental factors affecting disease transmission, Prof. St-Hilaire’s work has led to practical solutions that improve biosecurity, reduce antibiotic use, and support healthier fish populations.
Prof. St-Hilaire collaborates with international organizations, governments, and industry stakeholders to promote sustainable practices and enhance disease management strategies. Through her research, publications, and training of future aquaculture scientists, she has helped advance knowledge and improve aquaculture practices globally, contributing to a more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally responsible aquaculture industry.
J.M.P.K. Jayasinghe is a distinguished figure in aquaculture, known for his contributions to sustainable fish farming practices, particularly in Asia. With a focus on innovative aquaculture technologies and resource management, he has dedicated his career to improving the productivity, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of aquaculture systems. Jayasinghe has been involved in developing best practices that help small-scale and commercial farmers enhance yields while minimizing the environmental impact, which is crucial for both economic growth and ecological health.
Jayasinghe’s work emphasizes sustainable resource use, biosecurity, and disease management, aiming to address challenges that hinder aquaculture development. By promoting efficient water use, nutrient recycling, and sustainable feed practices, he has contributed to reducing the ecological footprint of fish farming. His research and extension activities have also focused on the integration of traditional and modern aquaculture techniques, helping to increase productivity without compromising natural resources.
Through his collaborations with research institutions, government bodies, and industry stakeholders, Jayasinghe has played a significant role in shaping aquaculture policies and practices that prioritize environmental stewardship and economic resilience. His efforts continue to influence the industry, supporting both sustainable development and the livelihoods of aquaculture-dependent communities.
Dr. A. S. Sahul Hameed is an internationally recognized expert in aquatic animal health and the Director of the Aquatic Animal Health Laboratory at C. Abdul Hakeem College in Tamil Nadu, India. As a designated expert for the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), Dr. Hameed has contributed significantly to global aquatic animal health, particularly in the area of shrimp and fish diseases. His research focuses on understanding and managing viral and bacterial infections in aquaculture, with the goal of developing sustainable practices that protect both industry productivity and environmental health.
Dr. Hameed is known for his pioneering work on major viral diseases in shrimp, such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV), and has developed diagnostic tools and preventive strategies that are widely used in the aquaculture industry. His expertise has been instrumental in identifying and characterizing emerging pathogens, as well as promoting biosecurity measures that prevent the spread of disease in aquaculture systems.
At his laboratory, Dr. Hameed leads a team focused on innovative research and capacity building, training numerous students and researchers in aquatic pathology. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the aquaculture sector in India and internationally, supporting sustainable development and health management in aquatic farming systems.
Dr. Vasant Kripa is the former Secretary of the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) in Chennai, India, and a highly respected scientist in marine biology, coastal aquaculture, and environmental management. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Kripa has been instrumental in developing policies and practices that promote sustainable and responsible coastal aquaculture in India. Her work has focused on balancing the growth of aquaculture with environmental conservation, ensuring that coastal ecosystems remain resilient and productive.
As Secretary of the CAA, Dr. Kripa played a pivotal role in regulating coastal aquaculture practices in India, implementing guidelines to safeguard coastal resources while supporting aquaculture’s role in rural livelihoods and food security. Her efforts in establishing biosecurity measures, best management practices, and environmental monitoring systems have helped reduce the ecological footprint of coastal aquaculture, enhancing its sustainability.
Dr. Kripa has published extensively on topics such as marine resource conservation, habitat restoration, and sustainable aquaculture practices. Known for her collaborative approach, she has worked with various stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, and coastal communities, to promote eco-friendly aquaculture practices. Dr. Kripa’s work has had a lasting impact on India’s coastal aquaculture policies, supporting both environmental health and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Dr. K.M. Shankar is the Vice Chairman of the Asian Fisheries Society, Indian Branch, and former Dean of the College of Fisheries in Mangalore, India. A highly respected figure in fish health management and aquaculture, Dr. Shankar has contributed significantly to advancing aquaculture science, particularly in aquatic animal health, biotechnology, and sustainable fisheries. His research focuses on pathogen detection, disease management, and biosecurity in aquaculture, addressing key challenges to improve productivity and sustainability in the industry.
During his tenure as Dean, Dr. Shankar led numerous initiatives to modernize aquaculture education and research, fostering a strong foundation for innovation and collaboration within India’s fisheries sector. He has been instrumental in introducing advanced molecular and biotechnological techniques for disease diagnostics, enabling rapid response and effective management of fish diseases that impact aquaculture yields. His work has been pivotal in developing sustainable practices that reduce dependency on antibiotics and enhance biosecurity in aquaculture systems.
Dr. Shankar’s contributions to the Asian Fisheries Society reflect his dedication to knowledge sharing and capacity building in the region. As a mentor and educator, he has influenced many young scientists, strengthening India’s position in global aquaculture research. His work continues to impact policies and practices, promoting sustainable aquaculture and food security in Asia.
Dr. C.V. Mohan is an Emeritus Scientist at WorldFish and former head of the Aquatic Animal Health Program at WorldFish, Malaysia. With over three decades of expertise in aquatic animal health and aquaculture, Dr. Mohan is internationally recognized for his contributions to fish health management, sustainable aquaculture practices, and aquatic biosecurity. His work has focused on improving disease prevention, diagnosis, and control in aquaculture, which is vital for the resilience and productivity of global fish farming systems.
During his tenure at WorldFish, Dr. Mohan led initiatives aimed at strengthening health management in small-scale aquaculture, particularly in Asia and Africa, where aquaculture is crucial for food security and economic stability. His research has addressed critical issues such as pathogen surveillance, epidemiology, and the development of low-cost diagnostic tools to help farmers prevent and manage disease outbreaks effectively.
Dr. Mohan’s efforts in promoting biosecurity and sustainable practices have contributed to shaping global policies and best practices, ensuring safer and more productive aquaculture systems. Known for his collaborative approach, Dr. Mohan has worked with governments, international organizations, and local communities, advocating for practices that enhance both environmental sustainability and socio-economic benefits in aquaculture. His impact extends globally, influencing policy and practice in aquatic animal health.
Prof. Arun K. Dhar is a Professor and Director of the Aquaculture Pathology Laboratory at the School of Animal & Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The University of Arizona, USA. An expert in aquaculture pathology and virology, Prof. Dhar is highly regarded for his research on diseases affecting shrimp and other aquatic species. His work focuses on identifying, understanding, and managing viral pathogens that pose significant threats to aquaculture industries globally.
Prof. Dhar’s research has led to the development of advanced diagnostic tools, vaccines, and management practices that help prevent and control disease outbreaks in shrimp farming, contributing to the health and sustainability of aquaculture systems. His work on diseases such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) and other viral pathogens has been instrumental in enhancing biosecurity measures and disease resilience in shrimp aquaculture, which is vital for food security and economic stability in many countries.
As a leader in the field, Prof. Dhar collaborates with government agencies, research institutions, and industry stakeholders worldwide, aiming to promote sustainable aquaculture practices. His contributions to aquaculture pathology have made a significant impact on disease management strategies and continue to benefit global aquaculture production and food safety.
Dr. Iddya Karunasagar is a distinguished Indian microbiologist and food safety expert, known for his pioneering work in aquatic microbiology, aquaculture health, and public health. His research focuses on seafood safety and disease management in aquaculture, with significant contributions to understanding and controlling microbial pathogens, such as Vibrio species, which affect marine organisms. His work has helped develop diagnostic tools and strategies that promote sustainability in aquaculture and ensure safer seafood.
Dr. Karunasagar has collaborated with international organizations like the FAO and WHO, contributing to global guidelines for seafood safety standards. His expertise has been vital in harmonizing safety practices across the industry, enhancing the safety of seafood products worldwide.
A leader in addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in aquaculture, Dr. Karunasagar advocates for sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives to antibiotics, such as probiotics, to manage aquaculture health and reduce AMR risks. His research has been influential in shaping global policies on AMR.
With numerous publications and awards to his name, Dr. Karunasagar’s work continues to impact industry practices, food safety, and public health globally. His legacy extends through his mentorship of emerging scientists in marine biotechnology and microbiology.
Dr. Pramoda Kumar Sahoo is the Director-cum-ICAR National Professor at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA). A leading expert in fish health management and aquatic animal diseases, Dr. Sahoo’s work focuses on advancing disease control, immunology, and molecular biology in freshwater aquaculture. His research is pivotal in improving the health, resilience, and sustainability of India’s aquaculture industry, which plays a vital role in food security and rural livelihoods.
Dr. Sahoo’s research has led to significant breakthroughs in understanding immune responses in fish and developing vaccines, diagnostic tools, and genetic markers for disease resistance. By identifying key pathogens affecting aquaculture species and creating strategies to mitigate their impact, his work helps reduce economic losses due to disease outbreaks, benefiting both large-scale and small-scale aquaculture operations.
In his leadership role at ICAR-CIFA, Dr. Sahoo has fostered collaboration between researchers, government agencies, and industry stakeholders, aiming to implement advanced disease management practices and improve production efficiency. A dedicated educator, he has mentored numerous students and young scientists, contributing to capacity-building in fish health research. Dr. Sahoo’s contributions have had a profound impact on sustainable aquaculture development in India.
Dr. Rohana Subasinghe is the Managing Director of FutureFish, a consultancy specializing in sustainable aquaculture and fisheries development. With over 30 years of experience in aquaculture, aquatic animal health, and international fisheries, Dr. Subasinghe is a globally recognized expert dedicated to promoting sustainable practices that support food security, environmental protection, and socioeconomic growth.
Before founding FutureFish, Dr. Subasinghe had a long and impactful career at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, where he led the Aquaculture and Fisheries Department. His work focused on developing global guidelines for sustainable aquaculture, addressing challenges like disease management, biosecurity, and responsible resource use. Dr. Subasinghe has been instrumental in shaping international policies and best practices that improve aquaculture sustainability and resilience, particularly for small-scale farmers in developing countries.
As the head of FutureFish, Dr. Subasinghe continues his mission to support sustainable aquaculture by advising governments, private sector stakeholders, and NGOs on issues ranging from production efficiency to environmental impact mitigation. Known for his expertise in responsible aquaculture, Dr. Subasinghe has significantly influenced global aquaculture development and remains a dedicated advocate for environmentally conscious and socially inclusive practices in the sector.
Dr. Eduardo Leano is the Director General of the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA), an intergovernmental organization focused on sustainable aquaculture development in the Asia-Pacific region. With a strong background in aquatic animal health and pathology, Dr. Leano has dedicated his career to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices, improving disease management, and promoting biosecurity within the industry.
Before becoming Director General, Dr. Leano held key roles in NACA, where he contributed to several regional initiatives aimed at strengthening aquaculture health management and fostering collaboration among member countries. His work has been pivotal in developing strategies to address disease outbreaks, improving diagnostic capabilities, and creating best practice guidelines to enhance the resilience of aquaculture systems.
Dr. Leano has collaborated with international agencies and governments, supporting capacity-building programs, disease monitoring, and knowledge sharing to advance safe and sustainable aquaculture practices across the Asia-Pacific. Under his leadership, NACA continues to prioritize food security, environmental sustainability, and livelihood development in member countries. Dr. Leano’s contributions have had a substantial impact on aquaculture practices and policies, establishing him as a key figure in the region’s efforts to promote responsible and resilient aquaculture development.
