Research Projects: Novel Species

As evidenced by our company name, we put our heart and soul into our premium fish -- Kampachi. But that doesn't stop us from constantly searching for the "next big thing".

We're currently working with several other species at our Kona research site, ranging from plate-sized herbivores such as Nenue (Rudderfish) to gargantuan beasts like the very valuable and ecologically threatened Giant Pacific Grouper. Our work with hebivorous fish seeks to add variety to the menu of fish currently raised in marine aquaculture without increasing the industry's demand on wild-caught fisheries, while our efforts with the monsters pictured below are aimed at providing an alternative to wild-caught grouper populations which are already under incredible stress.

"Bertha", on the left, is estimated to weigh over 200lbs. Her offspring are of a much more managable size... for now

A recent addition to our research program are the Roi, or Peacock Grouper. With a reputation as an excellent eating fish, it was imported to Hawaii by the State Government in the 1950's as a foodfish stock enhancement experiment. Unfortunately, this beautiful but voracious fish has largely taken over the position of top predator on Hawaii's coral reefs, displacing several native species and wreaking havoc on the local ecology. Their expansion has continued largely unchecked by fishing pressure because they are prone to carrying high levels of ciguatoxin, a dinoflagellate generated toxin that bioaccumulates up the food chain and results in top-tier predators that can cause serious untreatable illness in humans if consumed.

Because their toxicity stems from their diet, Kampachi Farms hopes to be able to spawn and rear "clean" Peacock Grouper in captivity using sustainable pelleted feeds. If this effort is sucessful, the overwhelming abundance of wild broodstock along Hawaii's coastlines could make this fish an excellent target for local aquaculture production.

For more information on our work with new species, or to set up an appointment to meet our farm-raised Giant Groupers, send us a quick email.