As the "chip" of fishery development, aquatic seedlings are fundamental to industry progress. Qingdao, a leading center for marine fishery science in China, has been making advancements in breeding technologies — improving seed quality for existing farmed species and enabling the cultivation of previously unfarmable varieties.

Fisheries are a key type of ocean resource utilization. Qingdao continues to drive innovation in seed breeding, bolstering the sector's role as a catalyst for fishery growth and supporting national food security.

Quality seedlings are the foundation for a good harvest, and in fisheries, they are not only a material base but are also crucial for high-quality industry development.

Qingdao stands at the forefront of aquatic breeding in China, achieving many national firsts: the first scallop variety, Penghai Red, ending reliance on wild seedlings; the first shrimp variety, Huanghai No 1, known for fast growth and resilience; and the first stress-resistant sea cucumber, Shenyou No 1, offering solutions to summer heat and disease challenges.

In terms of quantity, Qingdao's contributions are equally impressive. It developed both of China's triploid oyster varieties, nine out of 15 Pacific white shrimp varieties, and seven out of 12 kelp varieties nationwide.

Home to over one-third of China's fishery research institutions and professionals, Qingdao has led the breeding of 62 aquatic varieties as the primary institution, accounting for more than 20 percent of the national total. The city leads the country in fishery research output, talent, and new varieties bred.

Qingdao leads China's aquatic breeding innovation, with over one third of national research resources and 20 percent of new varieties. [Photo/Guanhai News]