Farming shrimp organically in Thailand

Organic shrimps: Growing consumer demand for sustainable food has spurred interest in shrimp farms like Surakit’s that may stem mangrove loss and encourage planting in areas long devoid of trees. Photos: Reuters

Surakit Laeaddee walks along the narrow banks of earth dividing his organic shrimp and fish ponds, rests under the shade of a tree he recently planted, and points to the lush mangroves marking out his plot. Too many trees invite birds that prey on his seafood stock. But planting just enough, on a fifth of his 10ha, cools the ponds and improves soil and water quality, boosting the health, reproduction and survival of his shrimp and fish.

“I hope the community will become more conscious about the importance of planting trees and looking after the ecosystem in order to raise seafood sustainably and prevent coastal erosion,” he said, looking toward the Gulf of Thailand, which has gnawed away at the shore, bringing the sea ever closer to his home in Laem Fa Pha, south of Bangkok.