The Chungcheongnam-do Fisheries Resources Research Institute has launched a large-scale prawn release project aimed at restoring marine resources in the Yellow Sea and increasing the income of local fishermen.
From May 8 to 9, the institute released 20 million juvenile fleshy prawns into coastal waters off five cities and counties—Boryeong, Seosan, Seocheon, Hongseong, and Taean. These prawns were artificially hatched and carefully raised for over 30 days, ensuring high survival rates and strong growth potential.
The fleshy prawn, one of the representative seafood species of the southern and western coasts of Korea, is a one-year species known for its tendency to stay near the shore rather than migrate. By autumn, the prawns are expected to grow to around 40 grams in weight, reaching a commercially valuable size that can significantly contribute to fishermen's earnings.
According to the Fisheries Resources Research Institute, the fleshy prawn is a high-protein, low-calorie delicacy that is growing in popularity among consumers. As demand steadily increases, the prawn offers a quick source of income, making it a preferred choice for local fishers.
Jang Min-gyu, director of the institute, stated, “We will continue to release economically valuable and environmentally suitable marine species such as blue crabs and webfoot octopuses into the Yellow Sea, helping to establish a stable income base for local fishermen.”
Source: Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Government