The world’s first medium-sized fluorescent fish, jointly developed by Academia Sinica, Taiwan’s top research institute, and ornamental fish exporter Jy Lin Trading Co. Ltd., were displayed to the public for the first time Oct. 28.
The unveiling has drawn the attention of the international aquarium fish industry, with European media forecasting that annual production of medium-sized fluorescent fish, measuring 12 to 20 centimeters in length, could reach at least US$60 million before the year 2012.
Jy Lin revealed that businesses in mainland China, Russia, Singapore, the United States and several other countries have placed advanced orders for the newly developed fluorescent fish.
According to tallies, the global aquarium fish market amounts to more than NT$150 billion (US$4.85 billion), with the U.S. States ranking as the largest consumer market and Singapore being the top exporter. With household incomes in emerging economies on the rise, consumer demand for ornamental fish in these markets has been growing quickly.
Taiwan is considered by most in the industry to be unrivaled globally in terms of breeding technology and biotech research and development related to fluorescent fish.
In 2001, National Taiwan University and ornamental fish exporter Taikong Corp. developed the world’s first fluorescent zebra fish using gene transfer technology. This first generation of fluorescent fish was shorter in length, measuring less than 6 cm.
Taikong General Manager Andrew Fang said to date, more than 20 species of smaller fluorescent fish have been developed, with four types already in mass production.
Tens of thousands are exported each month to several major markets, including mainland China, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. However, Fang said, entry into the EU, Japan and U.S. has been held up by the application processes in these countries for reasons related to gene transfer technology and biological safety.
Targeting the U.S. market, Academia Sinica and Jy Lin spent seven years and invested over NT$10 million developing the medium-sized fluorescent fish, including angelfish and cichlids. These larger fish also have a longer lifespan and are therefore more attractive to consumers. (SB)