Vietnam: Black Tiger Shrimp, Sustainability and Certification

Naturland certified Black Tiger shrimp farms are mainly located in the coastal regions of southern Vietnam along the Mekong Delta. In tidal areas near the sea, surrounded by mangroves and warm tropical temperatures, conditions are ideal for shrimp farming. Black Tiger shrimp occur naturally in these environments.

In contrast to conventional large scale farms of Vannamei shrimp, Black Tiger shrimp in the southern Mekong Delta are farmed by producer groups of smallholder farmers in ponds of around three to five hectares. The shrimp grow in integrated mangrove systems, where mangrove grow inside the ponds. The ponds are connected to the marine estuary via a weir, allowing regular water exchange and maintaining natural environmental conditions.

Black Tiger shrimp are stocked as postlarvae into the ponds, originating from Naturland certified hatcheries. In addition to shrimp, farmers often stock mud crabs, which naturally occur in mangrove areas.

This farming system follows a zero-input approach: the shrimp are not fed or treated. At low stocking densities of around two to three shrimp per square meter, they find sufficient food through the natural productivity of the pond ecosystem. These conditions create a very natural habitat for Black Tiger shrimp, promoting animal welfare. During water exchange, naturally occurring shrimp and fish species can also enter the ponds, creating a polycultural production system that reflects the natural ecosystem.

After around four months, the shrimp reach harvest size. During full moon, when tidal changes are strongest, adult shrimp instinctively swim toward the open sea to reproduce. Farmers make use of this natural behavior by opening the weir and catching the shrimp using nets installed at the water outlet.

In addition to Black Tiger shrimp, other shrimp species and mud crabs are harvested as well, providing additional income for farmers. The shrimp are collected and transported to a collection station, from where they are taken by truck to the processing plant.

Mangroves are not only crucial for protecting coastlines from erosion and marine threats, but they are also a highly valuable ecosystem. Mangrove systems provide natural shelter, help stabilize water conditions, and create habitats for a wide range of land- and water-based species.

They also serve as important nursery areas for many fish, crustaceans, and other marine organisms, thereby supporting biodiversity. In addition, mangroves play a significant role in climate regulation by storing large amounts of carbon in their biomass and soils.

Aquaculture is often criticized because mangrove forests have been cleared in many parts of the world to build new production systems. However, within the framework of Naturland certification, farmers actively contribute to the protection and restoration of this unique ecosystem.

Mangroves are preserved and continuously replanted, helping to maintain coastal protection, provide habitat and nursery grounds for numerous species, and safeguard the ecological functions of these coastal environments.

Shrimp aquaculture is a vital economic activity for many coastal communities in Vietnam. Smallholder farmers and their families often depend on shrimp farming as their primary source of income. In many cases, farmers live with their families in houses located directly next to their ponds. In addition to aquaculture production, farmers often keep livestock and grow vegetables near the ponds, allowing them to maintain a largely self-sufficient lifestyle.

Naturland certification creates opportunities for farmers to sell their shrimp through exporters to the European market at a higher price and benefit directly from the added value of certified production.

Naturland certification also includes comprehensive social standards that promote strong social responsibility. These standards cover fair wages, safe working conditions, and responsible labor practices.

In addition, the training and technical support required by Naturland help farmers maintain high production standards while improving environmental management. Through these principles, Naturland certified shrimp farming supports not only sustainable seafood production but also the long-term well-being of the people involved.