The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Center of Excellence has started a research collaboration with Infini-SEA, a U.S.-based shrimp breeding company, according to Yathish Ramena, director of the Center. The project aims to drive innovation in the study of shrimp and other marine species by exploring bioactive compounds, alternative ingredients, genetics and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enhance aquaculture sustainability and productivity.
“Infini-SEA is led by CEO Jim Collins, who has more than 25 years of experience working with shrimp and fish production systems and genetic programs, and Dr. Jaros ‘Omm’ Phinchongsakuldit, chief scientific officer, who has decades of experience in population genetics and gene expression,” Ramena said. “Infini-SEA is dedicated to developing and producing top-tier specific pathogen-free (SPF) Penaeus vannamei broodstock, nauplii and post-larvae (PL), ensuring superior genetic traits and disease resistance. The company has a strong focus on selective breeding, integrating cutting-edge genomic selection techniques to refine and enhance shrimp genetic lines that are resilient and high-performing. Their work aligns with UAPB’s commitment to advancing aquaculture science through research and technological innovation.”
To support its selective breeding programs, Infini-SEA has developed a set of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) panels, which are genetic markers that provide insights into shrimp diversity and performance. These panels were developed using next-generation sequencing technologies and funded in part by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (award NA20OAR0210093).
“Infini-SEA also works closely with its clients to gather phenotypic data from field trials conducted across a variety of locations and production systems,” Ramena said. “This real-world data is integrated into the company’s evaluation of breeding values, helping guide and refine each generation of shrimp for specific traits such as growth, survival and disease resistance.”
Through this partnership, UAPB researchers and students will gain hands-on experience with Infini-SEA’s advanced approaches to breeding program management, system design and genetic selection. The collaboration will focus on three key areas: Bioactive compounds and alternative feed ingredients, investigating natural compounds and sustainable feed alternatives that promote shrimp health and growth; Genetic research, applying genomic tools and phenotypic data analysis to advance selective breeding for improved disease resistance, environmental adaptability and production efficiency; and AI integration, using artificial intelligence to monitor shrimp development in real time, optimize hatchery performance and support data-driven breeding strategies.
“While countries in Asia, Latin America and Africa lead global shrimp production, innovations from this collaboration have the potential to benefit producers worldwide, but particularly here in the U.S.,” Ramena said. “This partnership represents a significant step forward in our efforts to enhance shrimp aquaculture through scientific research and technological advancements. By combining our academic expertise with their breeding and production capabilities, we can help shape the future of sustainable seafood.”
